How to choose a high performing real estate agent and why it matters
A great real estate agent is a skilled professional and having a high-performing agent on your team when it comes to selling a property can give you the edge over other players, especially in complex and challenging market conditions.
This brief guide will show you what to look for in an agent, helping you to choose the ideal partner for your property journey.
What makes a high performing real estate agent?
High performing, results focused real estate agents draw on years of experience and rigorous, ongoing professional training to ensure that they get the best results for their clients.
Here are some of the traits to look out for when you are choosing an agent:
- Committed to finding out what their clients goals are and how they can work to help the client achieve them.
- Extensive local knowledge. A top agent will be actively engaged in the area they work in, understanding both the area and the people as well as the property trends that affect the area. Understanding the local market also means having an extensive, carefully curated database of people who are actively and seriously looking to buy.
- Excellent communication skills. It’s vital that an agent be approachable to both buyers and sellers. They need to communicate clearly, in a timely manner, and in the way that best suits each client. An essential element of good communication is the ability to listen, and a great real estate agent will always have the time to really listen to their client’s needs and concerns.
- Marketing knowhow. Maximising exposure and efficiently marketing a property are important parts of a real estate agent’s job. A great one will know how to create a strong property advertising strategy to reach the most number of active buyers, which in turn generates competition and helps achieve the best result possible.
- Passion. When an agent is passionate about their work, they are driven and focused on getting the best results for their clients and will often go above and beyond to achieve their goals.
- Up-to-date knowledge of the nitty-gritty. In-depth knowledge of the legal, fiscal and technological aspects of buying, selling or renting property is vital.
- Transparency. Real estate agents must earn their client’s trust by being upfront, transparent, realistic and extremely professional at all times.
What are the benefits of working with a top performing real estate agent?
The better your agent, the better your experience of selling a property is likely to be as they guide and advise you to ensure you achieve excellent results.
Here are some of the benefits that a top-notch agent could provide:
- Savings. With their extensive experience and wide network of contacts, a great real estate agent can save you a lot of time and money when it comes to preparing your home and finding the right buyer.
- Top sales prices. Agents always strive to get the best possible results for their clients, and because a great agent bases their work on research, local knowledge and experience, you are more likely to achieve optimum results. The best agents are also the best negotiators and will confidently work on your behalf towards the best outcome.
- Peace of mind. A reputable agent earns the trust of their clients with consistent hard work and repeated success. Having someone on your side who is an expert in the field and has deep knowledge of all the ins and outs of the property market means you can relax while they do the hard yards.
How can I find the best real estate agent in my area?
A little bit of research will go a long way when you are looking for a top-performing real estate agent. There are a few ways to find a great agent and a few things you can ask prospective agents to help you identify the best:
- Check local listings. See which agents have the most properties listed and, importantly, the most successful sales under their belts.
- Look at the agents past sales. Have a look on the agent’s website at their recently sold properties as this will give you an idea of their expertise and track record.
- Are they a local leader? Google them and see if there are any articles written by them about the local market or articles they have featured in.
- Word of mouth. Chatting with neighbours, friends or colleagues about their property experiences may help you choose an agent in your area.
- Check their Google Reviews. Reading through these and compare agent reviews and read past client testimonials.
- Check out their socials. Have a look on social media to see how active they are and the type of content they are sharing and promoting.
- Have a look at their agent website to get an understanding of the properties they are currently selling and have sold
- Consider whether they are supported by a strong brand, has the brand won any industry awards
- Have a look at the quality of their property marketing - does the agent have a strong focus on branding, styling and photography
Once you’ve identified a few agents in your area, watch them in action at auctions or open homes. Ask them questions to find out how well they know the area and how experienced they are. It’s worth checking to see if they have a team supporting them and whether they have a network of contacts that will help them provide you with a full range of services.
Summing up
By doing a little research and asking a few questions, you will soon find out which agent is best suited to your needs.
Engaging the best agent in your area will ensure that you are reaping all the benefits of their extensive skills, knowledge and experience, making your own experience on the property market far less stressful and more profitable.
Other buying, selling and investing articles and resources
Guide to property investment success in NSW
Selling a house or apartment in NSW eBook
Buying a house or apartment in NSW eBook
