Selecting the proper agent is a very important side of selling your property. To sort the good from the bad (as there's good and bad in every industry), it is important to do some prior research before appointing an agent to sell your property.
After you've shortlisted some potential agents, it's important to meet up with them individually to talk about the potential sale of your property.
Questions to ask when interviewing an agent:
1. Are you an approved real estate agent?
It's very important to make sure that any potential agency that you are going to appoint is licensed by the relevant state authority to practice real estate
2. How long have you worked in this industry?
Work out what level of experience they have in real estate.
3. What's your success rate?
How successful have they been in past sales? Did they consistently meet the asking price or were their properties withdrawn/sold for rather less than predicted?
4. Am I Able To contact some of your latest clients?
This is to help get feedback from past clients and figure out what quality of service the clients felt they were provided.
5. How many lists have you got currently?
Is this agent representing many other people, therefore being credible and successful? Will the quantity of people the agent represents hinder their capability to offer you remarkable service if they're busy with other clients?
6. How does one plan to pump my property?
What advertising strategy will the agent adopt to push your property? What are they able to provide for me that their competitors can't? How often will they publicize?
7. What process do you use to find prospective buyers?
Do they have a database of current buyers looking for a property similar to yours? If not, what strategies will they use to find new prospective customers?
8. How many sales pros does the office have?
Will this agent have adequate support and backup so as to manage this sale? If they're not available, will they have someone that is also qualified that will be able to step in?
9. How frequently will you provide me with feedback?
When will they contact you to provide progress updates?
10. How am I able to contact you?
Is the agent easily accessible to you thru mobile as well as email?
11. What are the T&Cs that I am going to be bound to?
Prime yourself and know exactly what is predicted of you and the agent. Ensure you understand the terms and conditions of the agreements prior to signing, and particularly what conditions are established if you need to end the contract with your agent.
12. What are your costs?
How much do they charge for their services? Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs to ensure there aren't any concealed costs. Compare their fees with their competition.
13. If the house does not sell, will I sustain any charges?
It's really important to work out if charges are payable on the successful sale of your property or if you will incur costs without regard for the outcome.