How to choose a real estate agent in Ellery Park

Most people choose a real estate agent the same way: they invite three in, compare the numbers, and sign with the one who quotes highest. It’s the most common mistake sellers make, and it’s the one the industry relies on.

An agent who quotes high to win your listing isn’t lying, exactly. They’re betting that once you’ve signed, a few weeks of quiet open homes will make you accept a lower price. By then you’ve paid for the marketing and your home has been on the portals long enough for buyers to wonder what’s wrong with it.

Here are five questions that sort the good agents from the rest.

1. “Which sales is that price based on?”

A good appraisal comes with evidence: three to six recent sales of similar homes, close by, with addresses, dates and prices. Ask for them in writing. If the agent can’t name them, or the sales are from two suburbs over, the number is a guess.

2. “What would you tell me not to spend money on?”

Listen for specifics. A good agent will tell you which repairs buyers will notice and which they won’t. If every suggestion involves spending more, ask why.

3. “How many homes like mine have you sold here in the last year?”

Ellery Park is small, and its buyers are specific. An agent who sells Federation semis near the station every month knows what those buyers will pay and who they are. Ask to see their sold results, with prices and days on market.

4. “What will you tell me each week?”

You should get a written report every week: how many groups came through, contracts requested, buyer feedback and the agent’s honest view of the price. Ask to see a sample report from a past campaign.

5. “Who will I actually be dealing with?”

At some agencies the person who appraises your home hands it to a junior once you’ve signed. Ask who will run your open homes, take buyer calls and negotiate the offers.

The best agent isn’t the one who quotes highest. It’s the one who can show you why their number is right.

What to bring to the appraisal

• Council rates notice and your land size
• A list of any work done, with approximate dates and costs
• Any building, pest or strata reports you already have
• Your ideal timing, and anything that might affect it

At Corella, the agent who appraises your home sells it, and you get the evidence behind our range in writing within 48 hours of the visit.