3 Things you need to know before choosing an agent.
Should you use a Local Agent?
Sure..Two decades ago your local agent was your go-to as they knew the ins and outs of every sale in the area, the best take away restaurant (Chinese or Italian), and even where to score the best coffee.
Fast forward to today's agents, the good ones, have access to more data than you can poke a stick at.
Sure, your local agent might still claim to have the inside scoop on where to get the best brew, but let's face it, you can find that on google faster than they can finish their latte.
​
So, when you're in the market for an agent, aim higher than just your average local agent. Feel confident going for someone who is sucessful statewide. Why? Because they've got connections my friend! Thats right, your postcode is a little pond but agents that are well diverse and fish in the big pond will generally have a greater reach with investors, buyers advocates and exposure to a variety of market conditions - so more chances to turn your property into the hottest ticket since avocado toast.
​
And here's a nugget of wisdom: don't fall for the old "I've got a secret list of buyers" trick. Buyers aren't like VIP club members; If they are in the market, trust me... they are checking out all the latest properties, have alerts set and swiping right on anything that matches.
​
So, instead of banking on empty promises, go for the agent who's is likable and relatable ( after all this is a people game and property is the vehicle), has great negotiation skills, demonstrated they have done the research and ultimately can create instant rapport and close deals.
At the end of the day, it's not about where your agent get's their coffee; it's about how well they do their job to maximise your profit come settlement day.
1
To Auction or Not to Auction, that is the question?
2
Ahh the alluring auction - promising riches beyond your wildest dreams and tales of properties soaring hundreds of thousands over asking price. It's like the real estate equivalent of a blockbuster movie, with all the drama and suspense!
But hold onto your hats, folks, because for every success story plastered across the media or boasted about by your potential agent, there are thousands of auctions each week that end up as duds, only to be quietly sold off at a discount afterward. It's like the blooper reel they never show you!
​
Now, don't get me wrong, auctions have their time and place, but let's make sure it's the right fit for you and your property, not just what's easiest for the agent to pitch.
​
Auctions can be a success if your property is one-of-a-kind, oozing with charm and character, or has potential for development. But if you prefer a more discreet approach (84% of buyers prefer to buy private than at auction), a private sale might be your jam. It's like letting your agent unleash their negotiating skills behind closed doors, like a real estate ninja.
Oh, and speaking of fees, auctions come with an upfront price tag of $800 to $1500+, whether your property sells like hotcakes, fizzles out, or bombs spectacularly on auction day. It's like paying for front-row seats to a show, whether it's a hit or a flop!
Now, some agents love to push auctions like they're the latest craze, because hey, it's an easy way to offload a property without breaking a sweat. But here's the catch: if it doesn't sell, they'll blame it on the market and convince you to slash your price tag faster than you can say, "Sold for a steal!"
​
Here's the lowdown: A good agent should help you decide which route suits your property best. Because let's be real, you hired us to do more than just open doors and hope for the best. We're here to hustle, negotiate like pros, and get you the best deal in town. So, buckle up, buttercup, because with me on your team, I guarentee I will push every buyer to their financial limits to get you the best result.
​
3
Marketing - How much should you pay?
The answer is $0. Continue reading to find out how..
Did you know that most agencies will hit you with a bill ranging from $3K to $15K+ for marketing even before you've listed your property? And guess what? They'll try to dazzle you with the idea that splurging on a premium ad will skyrocket your engagement. Sure, it might land your ad higher up on the page, but let's not confuse visibility with actual engagement, shall we?
​
Ever noticed those ads with the agent's smiling face plastered at the top? Yep, you guessed it, that's all on your dollar, dear vendor - how does this help you?
​
But here's the kicker: research shows that over 92% of property hunting happens on mobile devices these days and guess what? Standard ads and premium ads look pretty darn similar on those tiny screens. So, apart from the agent's face hogging the spotlight, you're not getting much bang for your buck.
​
Also keep in mind, potential buyers generally search by location and budget. So, whether you're rolling with a standard listing or splurging on the premium package, you're still getting eyeballs on your property. And let's be real, with killer content like top-notch photos,snazzy videos, or even a virtual tour thrown in, sometimes the standard ad outshines the premium ones. Cha-ching! That's money saved, my friend.
​
Now for a little self promotion..
​
What if I said there was a way to pay nothing upfront, have no out of pocket expense and have the agent pay all of your marketing including Photos, Video, Floor Plan and feature on all digital platforms saving you thousands - would you consider a chat to find out how? This is not a one-off promotion, that is just how I do business, after all if I have skin in the game, i'm playing to win.
​
I offer all this and more - feel free to call Simon
on: 0423 373 591
email: simon.w@onepointeightrealestate.com.au
or use the contact form and Simon will be in contact for a obligation free chat.