Choosing the right real estate agent can influence how your property is priced, presented, marketed and negotiated. A good agent should bring more than a strong sales pitch — they should be able to demonstrate local knowledge, recent results, clear communication and a considered strategy for your property.
If you’re preparing to sell, this guide explains how to choose a real estate agent, the questions to ask and the red flags to look for before signing an agreement.
What to Look for in a Real Estate Agent
Finding the best real estate agent in Hobart for your property isn’t necessarily about choosing the biggest agency or the person who provides the highest appraisal. Focus on experience, local knowledge, communication and evidence of recent results.
1. Local Market Knowledge
A good agent should understand more than recent sale prices. They should know why comparable properties achieved their results and how factors such as buyer demand, competition, presentation and timing influenced the outcome.
For sellers in Tasmania, this means choosing an agent who understands the specific market your property sits within — not simply the broader state or city.
2. Clear and Honest Communication
You’ll be working closely with your agent throughout the campaign, so communication matters.
Look for someone who provides clear advice, responds promptly and is prepared to have honest conversations about price, buyer feedback and campaign performance.
A strong agent should also be willing to adjust the strategy when market feedback suggests a change is required.
3. A Relevant Track Record
Personality and rapport are important, but they shouldn’t replace proven experience.
Ask about recent sales involving properties similar to yours. Look at the results, how long the properties were on the market and how the campaigns were approached.
The most relevant agent isn’t necessarily the one who sells the most property — it’s the one with the experience and strategy suited to your particular sale.
Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent Before Hiring
Knowing the right questions to ask a real estate agent makes it easier to compare your options objectively.
1. What Have You Sold Recently?
Ask for recent examples of comparable properties and discuss:
- The original appraisal
- Final sale price
- Time on market
- Marketing approach
- Challenges encountered during the campaign
Specific answers give you a much clearer picture of an agent’s experience than broad claims about past performance.
2. How Would You Market My Property?
Your property should have a considered marketing strategy rather than simply being placed into a standard campaign.
Ask how the agent intends to position the property, reach suitable buyers and create competition.
The answer should demonstrate that they’ve thought specifically about your property, market and likely buyer.
3. How Did You Determine the Appraisal?
A property appraisal should be supported by recent comparable sales, current market conditions and the individual characteristics of your property.
If one agent’s appraisal is considerably higher than the others, ask them to explain the evidence behind it.
A higher appraisal doesn’t necessarily mean a higher eventual sale price.
4. What Do Your Fees Cover?
Ask for a clear written breakdown covering:
- Agent commission
- Marketing costs
- Photography and presentation
- Advertising costs
- Additional charges
- Agency agreement terms
This allows you to compare agents based on overall value rather than commission alone.
How to Compare Real Estate Agents
Once you’ve spoken with several agents, compare them using the same criteria.
Consider:
- Relevant recent sales
- Local market knowledge
- Pricing strategy
- Proposed marketing approach
- Communication
- Commission and additional costs
- Agency agreement terms
- Your confidence in their advice
Don’t Automatically Choose the Highest Appraisal
It can be tempting to choose the agent who provides the highest price estimate.
However, an appraisal needs to be supported by evidence. Pricing a property above what the market is prepared to pay can extend time on market and affect buyer interest.
A considered pricing strategy should balance the seller’s expectations with current market evidence and the strategy for generating competition.
Chat to a real estate agent in Launceston.
Look Beyond the Sales Pitch
A polished presentation doesn’t necessarily tell you how an agent will perform once the campaign begins.
Compare evidence rather than presentation alone. Recent results, market knowledge, communication and a clear strategy provide a stronger basis for choosing the right agent.
Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing a Real Estate Agent
Understanding how to find a good real estate agent also means knowing what to avoid.
1. An Unsupported Appraisal
Be cautious if an agent provides a significantly higher appraisal without being able to support it with comparable sales or a clear strategy.
Ask them to explain how they arrived at the figure and what evidence supports it.
2. Unclear Fees
You should understand what you’re paying before signing an agreement.
Ask for commission, marketing and additional costs to be provided in writing. This makes it easier to compare agencies and reduces the likelihood of unexpected expenses.
3. Restrictive Agency Agreements
Review the agreement carefully, including:
- Length of the exclusive agency period
- Notice requirements
- Marketing commitments
- Cancellation terms
- Any costs payable if you decide to change agents
Make sure you’re comfortable with the terms before committing.
4. Poor Communication
Pay attention to communication before you sign.
If an agent is difficult to reach, slow to respond or unclear during the appraisal process, consider how that experience may translate once your property is on the market.
Choosing the Right Agent for Your Property
The right real estate agent should bring local knowledge, proven results, clear communication and a considered strategy for your property.
If you’re thinking about selling, speak with the Wolf Property team about your property, the local market and the right approach to your sale.
