Choosing an Estate Agent
Choosing an Estate Agent is one of the most important decisions you will make when selling your home. Here are some of our top tips for picking an agent that’s right for you.
Check out the Daft.ie Estate Agent Hub.
Above all make sure you are happy with the agent you choose to sell your home.
1. Research
Walk around your area, check out which agents are selling homes close to where you live. Is one company more prominent than others? Which agent appeals the most to you from what you can see from the street? Check out our area search of Estate Agents and connect with an agent close to you.
Check out which homes are open for viewing with our Upcoming Viewing search. This is a great way to see the Estate Agent in action and will help you make your decision. Do you want a friendly agent? Professional? Informative? How do they respond to people dropping in enquiring about the property?
2. Interview
Selling your home means you’re in charge. Interview agents before you decide who you want to do business with. Speak with several agents, compare prices, personalities, services, support etc. Which agent and which package appeals most to you and your needs? Above all make sure you are comfortable with the agent that you pick as they will be your guide through the entire process of selling your home.
3. Ask Questions
The Estate Agent will most likely make a pitch about themselves, their record and what they can deliver for you. Listen, take note but don’t be afraid to ask questions. Some questions you could ask include:
How many homes did you sell last year?
How many were from the area I am selling in?
How will you prioritise my home over others in the area and what is your strategy to ensure you sell my home quickly?
Also enquire as to how they plan to market your home both online and offline. How many photos will be placed with your listing? What equipment will be used to photograph the home? Where will your home be advertised? Also can they answer what buyers in the area are looking for, from their previous experience?
4. Compare estate agent commissions & charges?
Estate agents will charge between 1% and 2.5% commission when selling your home. The rate will vary from agent to agent. You should try and negotiate the fee to get the best possible rate. Estate agents can also add extra fees to the sales commission. Such charges include photographs, website listings and newspaper advertising. Always shop around to get the best rates and don’t be afraid to negotiate or look for better value.
5. Set Expectations
Make sure you and your agent are on the same page from the start. Discuss how often you want the agent to keep you informed about the progress with the property. Will the updates be via phone calls/text messages/email?
Do you expect daily updates or are you happy to have a weekly catchup on what is happening on the agents’ end in relation to the sale? Get the ground rules in place and then you will be a lot more content with the relationship you have with your agent.
Make sure to check out our Estate Agent hub to connect with an agent close to you.
