Choosing a local agent
Point – There’s some minor relevance here, but nothing close to how it used to be.
Years ago, when people were looking to buy a property, it was common to approach local agents in the areas they were looking to buy in, tell them what they were looking for and then get shown what the agents had to offer.
Alongside speaking with local agents, buyers would also look for properties in places like newspapers, local magazines and flyers to help broaden their search.
There was limited options due to the accessibility of readily available information.
This was generally accepted by buyers as there was almost nothing less to expect.
And then the internet came along and changed everything.
It took a little time but now almost everyone uses it for almost anything and everything.
From reviews, to shopping, to ordering food, to sourcing information and beyond.
Almost everything you need to know or do is now practically online.
Times have changed.
And real estate is no different.
People are now doing close to their whole search for property online.
Simply search realestate.com.au or domain.com.au, select your suburbs of interest, what you’re looking for in a property and in a less than a minute, you have everything requested in front of you.
The reality is, the internet has changed the world in more ways than some people like to acknowledge or accept.
Today, people know exactly why they’re buying into a suburb or area and what they’re looking for in the type of property they’re buying.
Rarely will buyers today just buy something or anything because ‘it will do’.
If buyers are set on an area that starts getting outside of their price range, they can simply look further afield – Just by doing another quick search.
They no longer need to get in touch with a whole bunch of new agents in other areas.
That’s the power of the internet – Particularly when it comes to property.
Okay but, what about all the local knowledge and expertise the agent has?
As mentioned before, there is still some minor relevance here, but again, the majority of what people want to know about, they will search for and find online themselves.
And even if the agent tells them something, they will still go online to verify!
Remember, people today have a wealth of readily available information to them, why wouldn’t they use it to their advantage to help them make a more informed decision?
Especially when a large sum of money is involved.
Sounding like we’re down playing the importance of an agent these days?
No, quite the opposite.
We’re actually highlighting the necessities of a great agent and what it means for you, which is the key takeaway
Takeaway – Buyer management and negotiation, not office location.
An agent’s job these days is to properly manage the buyers and negotiate with them accordingly to secure the best possible price for the vendor (owner / seller).
The only inconvenience by not using a local agent is an inconvenience to the agent.
It just means more travel time for them.
By using the right agent, not always the local agent, will get you a far better and more lucrative financial result in the end.
Looking to sell, buy or lease? Click here to contact John
This information is of a general nature only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. We are not financial, legal or tax advisers. You should seek appropriate professional advice specific to you before acting on this information.
