Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose a real estate agent?

We suggest that you look at an agency’s track record and experience in the area. Ask about their most recent sales. Get testimonials. Ask friends and family. Seek out and speak with former clients. Keep your radar tuned. Choose an agency that is proud of its name, with agents who are professional, enthusiastic, smart and above all, value their reputation.

How much is my property worth?

We understand every property is different. We advise you to look at current sales in the area. Attend home opens of comparable properties. Monitor results in the local and daily newspapers.

We have access to our own sales database, and will examine every comparable sale before recommending a price range and the best method of sale. We look at the state of the market and the current level of buyer activity before arriving at our most accurate appraisal.

How much will it cost in Agent’s Fees to sell my property?

Agent's fees have been deregulated and therefore you may find some variation between Agents. It is important to remember that, in many cases, you only get what you pay for and therefore careful consideration should be given to what is to be included in the fee. Your choice of agent should not be based on the lowest fee but more on their professional approach, their skill level and the support they have from the company they represent. Remember, a well skilled, well paid agent may be able to negotiate a sale price that is much higher than a poorly skilled, cheaper agent, thereby more than offsetting the extra you will pay in fees.

We also know from experience that setting a competitive selling fee allows us to invite other agents to assist in the sale on a conjunctional basis. More agents means more prospective buyers, and perhaps more competition for your property. This can only lead to a higher sale price.

Agencies which offer their services "on the cheap" are not able to provide a suitable inducement to attract other agents and their buyers to your property, and so you miss out on the opportunities for sale that they could bring.

Will I have to pay for the Marketing and Advertising expenses?

Under normal circumstances, we do not charge you an additional amount to cover the marketing of your property. Our Selling Fee covers the marketing that we will do for your property unless your request extraordinary or unusual marketing. In this case, we will negotiate with you to come to a satisfactory arrangement.

If your property does not sell within the listing period, you will not be liable for any marketing or advertising charges. We are very proud of our "No Sale - No Fee" policy.

When is the commission for the sale payable?

The Selling Agency Agreement stipulates that the commission is payable upon settlement.

What method of sale should I choose?

There are many options available to you when it comes to which method of sale you should use. Among them are Multi-list Selling Agreement, Exclusive Agency Agreement, Auction, Expressions of Interest and For Sale by Tender. As a general rule, we believe that the Multi-List system works best for residential property in our district. It exposes your property to the highest number of potential purchasers as well as allowing other real estate agents to introduce the property to their clients.

What is a selling agency agreement?

A selling agreement is a contract between you and the selling agency. It outlines the selling fee and all the things that we will undertake on your behalf. It also covers how and when we are paid and our estimated selling price for your property. The agency agreement becomes binding when the principal (that is, you as the owner/s of the property, or someone who is legally acting for you) and the agent have signed it.

What about security during Home Opens?

We take this issue very seriously and go to great lengths to ensure the security of your home. We take the name and telephone number of everyone who enters to ensure maximum security. We also recommend sensible precautions like removing small valuables and locking away any pocket-size items. If we believe your home is too large to open with one sales representative, we will ensure that two are present.

What happens when a prospective buyer wants to make an offer on my property?

A written offer will be brought to you by your agent at which point negotiations will commence. Any negotiations must continue to be in writing with all conditions to be set out in the 'Contract for Sale by Offer and Acceptance'. When both parties are satisfied with the terms and conditions of the Offer and Acceptance, and have signed as such, your property becomes "Under Offer".

What is settlement and when does it take place?

Settlement refers to the payment in full of the purchase price (less the initial deposit.) Settlement can happen any time after the sale, by mutual agreement between the seller and buyer. It usually takes place six weeks or so after acceptance of the buyer’s offer.

What is the role of a Settlement Agent/Conveyancer?

A Settlement Agent/Conveyancer is responsible for legally transferring property ownership from one party to another.

Am I required to attend the 'Settlement'?

No. Your nominated Settlement Agent/Conveyancer will attend on your behalf. Documents will be checked and exchange of the Title and monies will take place.

When am I required to vacate my property?

You have until 12:00pm on the day following Settlement to vacate your home. If you have already vacated when settlement occurs then the purchasers has the right to receive the keys as soon as settlement has been confirmed.

When should I cancel the Insurance on my property?

You should retain adequate Insurance cover until 12:00pm on the day following Settlement to ensure that you are not put at risk.