After a few years of muted growth, several external factors are finally starting to change in the local housing market. In an evolving property market like the one we find ourselves in, selecting the right real estate agent can make all the difference in successfully buying or selling a home.
Speaking about how the local housing market is performing, Adrian Goslett, the regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, explains that the first few quarters of this year were 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 learn what those opportunities are 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 working with an agent who knows what they are talking about is vital.
“There are thousands of real estate agents in the industry, so knowing which agent you should work with can be tricky. My advice is to find someone you know is the best at what they do, who is trustworthy, and who cares about your needs,” he states.
RE/MAX of Southern Africa highlights things to consider when meeting with a prospective real estate agent.
• How to know if an agent is good
Your agent should understand your area well, including current trends and neighbourhood-specific nuances. Unless they are new to the industry, the agent should have a proven track record of past sales in the area. Ask them if they have won any awards recently as this can be a solid way to tell if they are a top performer.
• How to know if an agent is trustworthy
These days, con artists can be incredibly sophisticated, so working with an agent you can verify to be who they claim is important. Ask to see their Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC) licence (their licence to operate as a property practitioner). It also helps when agents can prove they are part of a reliable and established brand, like RE/MAX.
Online reviews and testimonials also offer insights into an agent’s reputation and client satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to ask for references and contact past clients to learn about their experiences.
• 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 confidently navigate the process. If you’re looking for a reliable partner to guide you through the changing market conditions, I strongly recommend contacting your nearest RE/MAX office,” Goslett concludes.
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