Are you looking to hire an exclusive agent to sell off your property? Here are some things you should consider before committing to the cause.
There is a difference between an exclusive agent and a sole agent; even though both indicates that only one agent is entitled to sell off a property. Real estate agents themselves always get these two terms mixed up. If you appoint a sole agency to sell off your home, you will not have to pay any commission to the agent, should you make the sale yourself. However, under an exclusive appointment, the seller will have to pay up the professional fee when the property is sold, regardless of who closes the deal.
The job scope for an exclusive agent is basically the same as a general one – nevertheless, once exclusivity is given, the property agent will definitely prioritise the seller’s property by putting in more effort, resources and time to market said property as the sale is almost guaranteed under an exclusive appointment.
Things to consider before hiring
Before hiring an exclusive agent, sellers are advised to do their due diligence – check the agent’s background and validity by browsing through the Valuation and Property Services Department (JPPH) website. Also, do not forget to make sure that the agency is registered with the BOVAEA and is currently active as well.
Sellers can also evaluate the property agent’s suitability by checking if he or she is familiar with the area and property type. It is recommended to employ an agent who is an area specialist – this means that the agent will have valuable experience and expertise in the subject of property and is knowledgeable with the market condition for that specific area. A plus point for the potential agent will be if he/she could provide legitimate testimonials from previous customers – a solid track record is a winning factor as it provides sellers with the necessary confidence and trust.
The advantages
An exclusive appointment will definitely motivate and encourage the property agent to act more proactively and aggressively, besides convincing the property agent that disposing the property is a serious matter for the seller.
Hence, in return, the agent is willing to carry out various type of marketing activities and initiatives to ensure that the property will be sold at an optimum price in the shortest period possible. Sellers can expect to see their requirements being fulfilled efficiently or maybe even beyond their expectations.
Written by Fan Yea Jea, Founder of The Property Expert.