Navigating the property market can feel like a rollercoaster — equal parts exciting, stressful, confusing and overwhelming. It’s no surprise that many people hold back from asking their real estate agents the tough (or slightly awkward) questions. But here’s the thing; open and honest communication is KEY to achieving the best possible outcome when buying or selling your property. You’re absolutely entitled to seek clarity — no need to worry about rocking the boat!
This is where our friends at Harcourts South Australia have stepped in to help. They’re here to answer five of the most common questions people are too nervous to ask… but have always wanted to!
Over to you, Harcourts South Australia!
- What commission do you actually make?
Talking about money might feel taboo, but understanding how your agent’s commission works is invaluable.
Real estate agents typically earn a percentage of the final property sale price. Heather Edwards, CEO of Harcourts SA, explains, “Commissions can vary depending on market conditions, the location of the property and the scope of services that agents are providing.”
While it might seem like agents are living it up on big payouts, the commission is split several ways. It typically covers business expenses, marketing and operational costs, with only a portion ending up as the agent’s take-home pay.
Why is this percentage fair? Because your agent is not just a salesperson. They’re part marketer, negotiator, legal liaison and in many cases, an emotional support person! It’s essential to remember the fee isn’t just “pay for effort,” it’s also “pay for expertise.”
- Are you REALLY working in my best interest?
Real estate agents have a legal duty to act in their clients’ best interests, meaning their loyalty lies firmly with you. But understandably, scepticism can arise, particularly when you’re navigating one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll make in your life.
Heather provides an honest perspective, “A great agent should always prioritise their client’s needs over timelines, commissions or competing interests. A professional will give you honest feedback — even when it’s something you might not want to hear.”
That said, conflicts of interest can occasionally present themselves. For example, an agent representing both the buyer and the seller might have a tricky balancing act. Always clarify these scenarios upfront and don’t hesitate to ask for a breakdown of how your agent is handling your priorities.
- Why aren’t you showing my property more?
It’s the classic, “is it me or you?” scenario. If your property isn’t seeing much foot traffic, it doesn’t necessarily mean your agent is slacking off.
Several key factors come into play here:
- Pricing: Market demand and how competitive your asking price is.
- Condition: First impressions matter and many buyers want a home that feels “move-in ready.”
- Marketing strategy: Your agent should be leveraging every tool in their kit, from online listings to social media, photography and local connections.
Heather adds, “If your home isn’t getting shown as much as you’d like, work with your agent to reassess the pricing strategy, tweak the staging, or broaden marketing efforts. Collaboration is key!”
Visibility is a team effort and with the right adjustments, you can help your listing stand out more effectively.
- Are you telling me everything, or just what I want to hear?
No one wants to deal with sugar-coated half-truths or empty promises, especially regarding a decision as significant as buying or selling a property. It can sometimes be hard to gauge whether your agent’s optimism is genuine or just an attempt to keep the peace.
“Honest agents will tell it like it is, but back it up with hard data and insights,” says Heather. This could translate to frank discussions about market trends, buyer interest or areas for improvement.
There’s a fine line between providing encouragement and setting realistic expectations. Don’t be afraid to press for clarification, whether that’s asking for comparative market analyses (CMAs) or updates on feedback from prospective buyers. Communication is everything.
- How experienced are you, really?
If you feel awkward asking about someone’s qualifications and experience, you’re not alone. Don’t be shy about asking though, because expertise correlates directly with how smooth your transaction might be.
You can start with general questions like:
- How long have you been in real estate?
- How many similar properties have you sold in this area?
- Can you share recent examples of successful transactions?
Heather advises, “Experience is more than just years in the industry. It’s also about how engaged and knowledgeable an agent is within their market niche. Don’t be afraid to ask for testimonials or reviews to gain confidence in their skills.”
Pro tip? Look for transparency in their answers, as well as someone who’s genuinely excited to showcase their track record.
Great communication is the foundation of any successful client-agent partnership. By asking the tricky questions upfront, you’ll gain invaluable insights while fostering a collaborative working relationship.
The team at Harcourts South Australia are passionate about honest and transparent communication. No question is too big, too small or too awkward! Whether you’re buying or selling, they’ll give you the expert advice and support you deserve, without the unnecessary fluff.
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