An exclusive agent means exclusive service

Posted on 19 November, 2013 in Selling Property, Tips

Many people think that listing their property with many agents will get them more exposure. The logic is simple more agents equals more exposure, which in turn means a quicker sale.

Listing with lots of agents sounds good in theory but in reality it seldom results in a quicker sale. Agents can afford to spend lots of time and their own money coordinating a marketing campaign with the chance that the property could be sold by another agent through luck and no marketing at all. The same work done by an exclusive agent would result in a win / win situation for all concerned.

In the case of an open listing most sales occur by luck rather than hard work or good management. Many owners have reported unsuccessful experiences with multi listing such as, no activity, no advertising, no inspections, different prices being advertised by different agents causing confusion and after these experiences have elected to use an exclusive agent with a professional and active approach.

Exclusive agency means there is someone in control and fully accountable for the marketing and sale of your property. The important thing is to pick the right agent initially. Interview a few agents and compare what they have to offer whilst expecting a submission in writing for you to study after they have gone. After all an agent who puts what they say in writing is compelled to deliver what they are offering. The agent who puts the highest price on the property is not necessarily the right person for the job, with the expertise and knowledge to get the best price. It doesn't take much expertise to quote a high price but it does take considerable expertise to achieve one. Also be wary of agents who discount their commission in order try and persuade you to appoint them. Discounting commission is an easy way for an inexperienced or incompetent agent to attract business but the concern should be that if that agent can't even negotiate their own commission in line with their competitors how are they expected to negotiate a good price with the buyers. Finally be wary of agents pushing large expensive marketing and advertising campaigns, even if they sell your property at the first viewing most times you are locked into pay for the entire campaign they have pre-booked. Best to look for an agent who will tailor make a marketing and advertising campaign with the flexibility to suit your budget. If you do your homework you should be able to sit back and let the agent do all the work.