FAQs

What is the role of a Real Estate Agent?

Real estate agents are qualified professionals that can help you sell your property. They are experts in the local and wider property market and provide informed property appraisals. They help guide sellers on the best method of sale and ensure properties are actively promoted and marketed to reach the maximum number of buyers. Real estate agents will assist in the negotiation of property sales and ensure this is done with the utmost confidentiality. Real estate agents work for the property seller and are focused on selling it for the most amount of money and obtaining the best possible terms and conditions for the seller.

What is an exclusive listing?

With an exclusive agency agreement, you give only one agent the rights to sell your property. This may entitle the agent to be paid a commission if the property is sold during the fixed term of the agreement, even if you or another agent were responsible for the sale. An exclusive listing arrangement is most commonly used for the sale of residential properties. 

What is the agent's role at an open house?

An agent’s role at an open house inspection is to listen closely and observe attendees to gauge buyer interest and motivation.

By engaging in conversation, the agent can learn more about a potential buyer’s specific circumstances and requirements. This helps the agent to discuss the aspects of the property relevant to the buyer. At the same time, buyers may need to view the property without pressure and talk about it with someone they have brought along. A good agent will be aware of this and only engage in conversation at appropriate moments.

Why should the seller be absent during an open house?

Getting a buyer to picture themselves living in the property - sometimes referred to as ‘mentally moving in’ - is one of the most effective ways to generate serious interest.

For this to be achieved, it is essential that they feel relaxed and unhurried. Buyers do not wish to intrude on the current owner’s space, so your presence can sometimes act as a deterrent for them to stay longer and continue to consider the property carefully.

How long should it take to sell my house?

Once your home is placed on the market, the length of time it takes to sell depends on a number of circumstances.

The biggest factor is price, auction will generally prove to be the most effective way to sell it for the best price in the shortest possible timeframe.

An auction can secure a quick sale because buyers are compelled to act on the day or risk losing the property to somebody else.

Your Raine & Horne agent can tell you the approximate number of days properties similar to yours have spent on the market before selling.