When it comes to selling your home, finding the right real estate agent can make all the difference between a smooth, profitable sale and a stressful experience. But with so many agents claiming to be “the best,” how do you know who’s genuinely right for you?
The answer lies in asking the right questions before you sign any agreement. In this guide, we’ll help you understand how to choose a real estate agent by focusing on the 10 key questions you must ask—so you can confidently select a professional who understands your property, your market, and your goals.
1. How Long Have You Been Selling Property in This Area?
Experience matters, but local experience matters even more. An agent who has worked extensively in your specific area understands the nuances that make properties attractive to buyers. They know the buyer demographics, seasonal trends, and pricing sweet spots that generic market knowledge simply can’t capture.
When evaluating agents for Jervis Bay Real Estate or houses for sale Huskisson, ask them to share specific examples of properties they’ve sold nearby. Their familiarity with your neighbourhood will directly impact how effectively they can position and market your home.
2. What Is Your Average Selling Time for Homes Similar to Mine?
Numbers don’t lie. An agent’s track record tells you exactly what you can expect. Ask about their average days on market for properties comparable to yours in size, condition, and location. This question reveals whether they have effective strategies to sell a property quickly or if their listings tend to languish.
A skilled agent will provide you with data-backed answers, comparing their performance to market averages. If they’re consistently selling homes faster than their competitors, that’s a strong indicator of their marketing prowess and negotiation skills.
3. Can You Walk Me Through Your Marketing Strategy for My Property?
Generic marketing gets generic results. Your property deserves a tailored approach that highlights its unique strengths and reaches the right audience. Ask potential agents to outline their specific marketing plan for your home.
A comprehensive strategy should include professional photography, virtual tours, social media campaigns, MLS listings, email marketing to their database, and open house events. The best agents also leverage targeted online advertising and networking with other agents to maximise exposure. If they’re listing in competitive areas like Real Estate Vincentia, they should explain how they’ll make your property stand out from similar listings.
4. How Will You Determine the Right Listing Price for My Home?
Pricing can make or break your sale. Set the price too high, and your property will sit on the market, becoming stale. Price it too low, and you leave money on the table. A professional agent should provide a detailed comparative market analysis (CMA) that examines recently sold properties similar to yours.
Listen for specifics about how they adjust for your home’s unique features, upgrades, and condition. They should explain their pricing strategy clearly, backing it up with real data rather than optimistic guesses or round numbers that sound appealing but aren’t market-driven.
5. Who Is the Target Buyer for My Property?
Understanding your ideal buyer is fundamental to effective marketing. Every property appeals to certain demographics more than others, and your agent should be able to identify exactly who will be most interested in your home.
For instance, a waterfront property in the Jervis Bay area might attract retirees, holiday home seekers, or investors, while a family home near schools appeals to young families. Your agent should explain how they’ll craft messaging and choose marketing channels that specifically reach these target buyers.
6. What Preparations Do You Recommend Before Listing?
First impressions are everything in real estate. A knowledgeable agent will provide honest feedback about improvements that could maximise your home’s appeal and selling price. They should distinguish between essential repairs, cosmetic updates that offer strong returns, and changes that aren’t worth the investment.
The right agent will also discuss staging options, whether you should depersonalise spaces, and how to enhance curb appeal. Some agents have networks of trusted contractors, painters, and stagers they can recommend if needed. Their advice should be practical and tailored to your timeline and budget.
7. How Will You Keep Me Informed Throughout the Selling Process?
Communication can be the difference between peace of mind and constant anxiety during your sale. Establish clear expectations about how often you’ll receive updates, whether through weekly calls, emails, or text messages.
Ask how quickly they typically respond to inquiries and how they’ll share feedback from showings. You want an agent who is proactive about communication, not someone you have to chase down for information. Clarify who you’ll be working with if they have a team, and whether you’ll have direct access to the agent or will work primarily with assistants.
8. What Is Your Commission Rate and What Does It Include?
Understanding the financial arrangement upfront prevents surprises later. Most agents work on commission, typically a percentage of the sale price. Ask for a clear breakdown of their fees and what services are included.
Some agents include professional photography, staging consultations, and premium online advertising in their commission, while others charge these as separate expenses. Make sure you understand exactly what you’re paying for and whether there are any additional costs you should anticipate.
9. Can You Provide References from Recent Clients?
Past performance is the best predictor of future results. Don’t hesitate to ask for contact information of recent clients, particularly those who sold properties similar to yours. Speaking directly with previous clients gives you insights into the agent’s professionalism, reliability, and ability to deliver on their promises.
When you call references, ask specific questions about the agent’s communication style, problem-solving abilities, and whether they would work with them again. Online reviews can also provide valuable perspectives, but personal references often give you the most honest feedback.
10. What Happens If My Home Doesn’t Sell in the Expected Timeframe?
Every agent should have a backup strategy. If your home doesn’t receive offers within the anticipated timeframe, ask what changes they would recommend. Will they suggest a price adjustment, revamp the marketing approach, update photos, or increase advertising?
Understanding their problem-solving process shows you how adaptable and committed they are to getting results. Also, clarify the terms of your listing agreement, including its duration and how you can terminate it if you’re not satisfied with the agent’s performance.
Making the Right Choice for Your Property Sale
Learning how to choose a real estate agent comes down to asking questions that reveal their expertise, commitment, and strategy. These 10 questions give you a comprehensive framework for evaluating potential agents and finding the perfect partner to sell a property.
At Wright Way Realty, we understand that selling your home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make. Our experienced team brings deep knowledge of the local market, from Real Estate Sanctuary Point to Huskisson Real Estate and throughout the Jervis Bay region. We combine proven marketing strategies with personalised service to ensure your property receives maximum exposure and attracts serious buyers.
When you’re ready to take the next step, contact Wright Way Realty. We’ll answer all your questions honestly, provide a detailed action plan for your property, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your sale. Because when it comes to real estate, the Wright Way is the right way.
