Selecting a real estate agent in a changing market
After a few years of muted growth, several external factors are finally starting to change within the local housing market. In an evolving property market like the one we are likely to find ourselves in, selecting the right real estate agent can make all the difference in successfully buying or selling a home.Speaking into how the local housing market is performing, Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa explains that the first few quarters of this year have been characterised by a challenging economic climate and a sluggish property market, “But, following the latest interest rate cut, all this is about to change. Those who take advantage of the opportunities that exist now will reap the rewards in years to come,” he says.
The best way to determine those opportunities is to form a good working relationship with a reliable property professional. The trick is finding the right real estate professional with whom to partner. The stakes can often be much higher in a changing market, so it becomes even more important to work with an agent who knows what they are talking about.
“There are thousands of real estate agents in the industry, so it can be tricky to know which agent you should work with. My advice is to find someone who you know is the best at what they do, who is trustworthy, and who cares about your needs,” he states.
Elaborating on each of these points, RE/MAX of Southern Africa highlights a few things to consider when meeting with a prospective real estate agent.
1) How to know if an agent is good
Your agent should have a deep understanding of your local area, including current trends and neighbourhood-specific nuances. Unless they are brand new to the industry, the agent should also have a proven track record of past sales in the area. Ask your agent if they have won any awards recently, as this can often be a good way to tell if they are a top performer.
2) How to know if an agent is trustworthy
These days, con artists can be incredibly sophisticated, so it’s important to work with an agent who you can verify to be who they claim to be. Ask to see their FFC licence (which is their licence to operate as a property practitioner). It also helps if they can prove to be part of a reliable and established brand, like RE/MAX.
Apart from your own experiences with the agent, online reviews and testimonials offer insight into an agent’s reputation and client satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to ask for references and contact past clients to learn about their experiences.
3) How to know if an agent cares about your needs
Your gut feeling matters here. If an agent makes you feel confident and valued as a client, it’s a good sign they’ll be a trustworthy partner throughout the selling process.
“Choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during a property transaction, especially in a fluctuating market. A skilled agent brings local expertise, strategic marketing, and a personal touch to help you navigate the process with confidence. If you’re looking for a reliable partner to guide you through the changing market conditions, then I can strongly recommend reaching out to your nearest RE/MAX office,” Goslett concludes.