If you’re in the market to buy a property you’ll know that dealing with sales agents can sometimes be a difficult and daunting task.
“I’ll pretend I’m not that interested so they don’t hassle me.”
“But the agent seemed so nice and friendly so I told them how much I could afford”.
“But I genuinely thought the agent was looking out for my best interests”.
As buyers agents, these are just some of the things we hear on a regular basis from buyers who come to us for help.
Top Tip #1: Let the agent know you’re interested.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to hide their level of interest from the agent. They believe that by showing interest in the property, the price will increase!
In this market where properties are moving quickly, it is essential that the agent knows you have interest in the property. Otherwise, if negotiations commence with another party, you risk not having the opportunity to put your best foot forward and be part of these negotiations. There have been so many times that I’ve heard complaints from buyers about properties being sold out from underneath them usually because they either didn’t return the agent’s phone call or because they appeared disinterested!
Top Tip #2: Don’t think the agent is your best friend (even if they actually are!)
During the time you’ve been searching for property, you may have formed good relationships with certain real estate agents. But there is one critical point to remember: the agent is paid by the seller. The agent is working on behalf of the seller. The agent’s role is to get you to pay too much for the property. So it makes sense that they may come across as friendly and helpful because that is their job! Don’t fall into the trap of divulging your budget or how much you REALLY think the property is worth.
Top Tip #3: Be Nice – Play the Game!
If you want information from your agent, be nice to them. If you want to be kept in touch with what’s happening as far as other buyer interest goes, be nice to them. The nicer you are to the agent, the more chances you have of them giving you the inside scoop at the critical time.
Form a close relationship with your agent during the campaign. Get to know a little more about them. They won’t be too used to this so just tread carefully and stay on their good side. Remember: you need them as much as they need you!
At Innovative Property Advocates, buying & selling property including dealing with real estate agents is our speciality. As industry experts for more than 20 years, we understand the process inside out as well as the behavioural characteristics of real estate agents. If you’d like to be in total control of your next property transaction, then we’d love to show you how.
Visit us at www.innovativeproperty.net.au or call us on 02 9501 5023.
