Questions to ask a Real Estate Agent when selling

Sell your home with the right real estate agent

Selling your home can be daunting and overwhelming, especially if you need help figuring out where to begin. Whether upsizing, relocating or letting go of an investment, knowing what questions to ask a real estate agent will better enable you to find the right person to sell your home. A local agent will often gladly answer any questions, but by selecting a few that are important to you and your property, you’ll be able to efficiently compare your options and increase the likelihood of connecting with the agent you’re confident will earn the highest returns.

Generally, questions to ask a real estate agent should cover one of these three areas: Their experience, their expectations for your property and the local market trends.

Asking about their experience

What properties have you sold in the past year?

First-home buyers may want an agent who has assisted other new homeowners, and a seasoned investor needs a professional with a track record for attracting the highest-paying buyers. Questioning the previous experience of your agents increases your chances of finding a professional who knows the best sales strategies for your property type.

What should I expect during the selling process?

Especially helpful for new buyers, an agent should be well versed in selling a house and capable of guiding a seller through each stage, regardless of their experience. From the initial property appraisal and preparation for the market to exchanging contracts and settlement, your agent should be able to walk you through the process and adjust to your understanding.

Questions regarding your property

How will you advertise my property?

When selling your home, the right marketing strategy can make all the difference in achieving a quick and profitable sale. However, marketing expenses can add up quickly, especially if your sales approach could be more effective. Your agent’s method of selling your home may be the difference between a fast sale and lingering too long on the market. Comparing the answers from different agents can inform you of what works best for your suburb.

What else should I do to prepare?

The benefit of using a real estate agent to sell is access to their professional insights for the best possible price. Variable costs are expenses that are not essential to the legal process of selling a house but can add a lot of value when included. After receiving an appraisal on your home, ask if they have any suggestions for increasing the property’s value.

Asking about current market trends

Is now the right time to sell?

Property markets come in all shapes and sizes, with varying demand levels and a wide range of selling prices. A local real estate agent is invested in the current trends of their selected suburbs and has a deeper understanding of subtle changes in the market that may affect your property’s selling potential.

How long will it take to sell my house?

Asking for the average time on the market provides a good starting point. But depending on location, condition, and demand, your agent can provide a more accurate estimate. If your house is in a highly sought-after area, it may sell faster than the average, so be sure to get a personalised estimate from your agent.

For more advice on how to effectively sell your home, check out our blogs here.