16 Sep How can I find the right selling agent?

If you’re planning to sell your home, finding the right selling agent is crucial. This blog will guide you through the process.

Agent expertise

How can you find the best selling agent that suits your needs? We’re here to help you answer that question!

Most agents handle both buying and selling properties, but some specialize more in one area. Therefore, always choose an agent with expertise in the area you’re looking for.

Check the agent’s level

A good agent can increase the sale price by up to 5%. An agent should take the time for you. It’s recommended to hire a full-service agent. A very cheap agent might ask you to handle some tasks yourself, while a full-service agent guides you through the entire process and takes care of all activities, such as property viewings.

Verify membership in an association

It’s important that an agent is a member of a professional association. Most agents belong to one of the three largest real estate associations: the Dutch Cooperative Association of Real Estate Agents and Appraisers NVM U.A., VBO, or VastgoedPro. The title “real estate agent” is no longer a protected title, meaning anyone can call themselves an agent without oversight. However, an agent cannot simply become a member of an association. For instance, the NVM has strict requirements regarding quality, service, advice, and expertise.

Marketing activities

Always ask the agent what marketing activities they will undertake to ensure the widest possible reach. It’s also helpful to review properties the agent has sold before. Is the quality of the listing good? You can check the quality of the photos and other promotional materials.

Interview multiple agents

Talk to several agents before making a final choice. This allows you to find the one that best suits you and ensure that the agent will make the best decisions for your sale.

Discuss with the selling agent what services they will provide, and negotiate the fees. The agent’s compensation is not legally fixed. Most agents charge a percentage of the home’s sale price. Pay only for the services provided, and make sure payments are made after you know what services have been delivered.

Different types of agents

• A traditional agent handles everything from writing listing descriptions, taking photos, and placing the property on websites like Funda, to negotiating with potential buyers and drafting the sales contract.
• An online agent conducts negotiation talks and drafts sales contracts, but you’ll handle the viewings, take photos, and write your own property description for listing sites.