FAQ's When Selling Your Property
What is my property worth? What price will I get for it?
To determine the value of your property, we conduct a professional appraisal. This involves attending the property and reviewing its features, inclusions and overall presentation.
We then compare your home with similar properties in the area that are currently on the market or have recently sold. Based on this analysis, we provide you with an accurate price guide to help you confidently list your property for sale.
How would you market my property?
We market your property across a range of platforms to maximise exposure. This includes major real estate portals such as realestate.com.au and homesales.com.au, our agency website, office window displays, and social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram.
We also utilise local and regional newspapers where appropriate, along with professional signboards at the property.
All advertising costs and options will be clearly outlined in your agency agreement. Alternatively, please contact us for a tailored quote.
How do you run inspections – open homes vs private inspections?
For open homes, we advertise a set inspection time where members of the public can attend and view the property. During the inspection, we register attendee details so we can follow up with potential buyers.
Private inspections are arranged by appointment at a time that suits the prospective buyer, providing a more personalised viewing experience.
What is the agent’s role at an open house?
An agent’s role at an open house is to observe, listen and engage with attendees to gauge interest, motivation and feedback, which is then communicated to the seller.
By engaging in conversation, the agent can better understand a buyer’s circumstances and requirements, allowing them to highlight features of the property that are most relevant.
Having in-depth knowledge of the property and answering questions confidently can be key to securing an offer.
At the same time, buyers often prefer to inspect without feeling pressured. A professional agent recognises this and allows buyers space to explore the property comfortably.
What is the role of a real estate agent?
We are qualified professionals who assist you in achieving the best possible outcome when selling your property.
We provide informed appraisals based on local market knowledge, guide you on the most suitable method of sale, and ensure your property is actively promoted to reach the maximum number of buyers.
We also manage negotiations between buyer and seller with professionalism and confidentiality. Real estate agents act on behalf of the seller at all times.
What is an exclusive listing?
An exclusive agency agreement gives one agency the sole right to sell your property for a fixed term.
During this period, the agent may be entitled to commission if the property sells, even if you or another agent secure the buyer. Exclusive listings are the most common arrangement for residential property sales.
What is an open listing?
An open listing allows you to appoint multiple agents to market your property simultaneously.
Commission is only paid to the agent who successfully introduces the buyer. While this approach may broaden exposure, it can sometimes result in less individual attention and inconsistent marketing strategies.
It may also create confusion for buyers if multiple agency signboards are displayed at the property.
How long should it take to sell my house?
The time it takes to sell depends on various factors.
Pricing is the most significant factor. An agent can provide an estimate of how long similar properties have remained on the market before selling.
Throughout the campaign, your agent will provide buyer feedback, updates on market conditions and professional advice on potential improvements that may help achieve a quicker sale.
What does ‘overcapitalised’ mean?
‘Overcapitalised’ refers to spending more on improvements than you are likely to recover in the final sale price.
While upgrades such as landscaping or renovations may add value, there is no guarantee the full cost of those improvements will be reflected in the sale price.
Can I sell my property while it is currently leased?
Yes, you can sell a property while it is leased. However, if a new fixed-term tenancy has commenced, there is a two-month period during which the property cannot be listed for sale. Otherwise, the tenant may have grounds to issue a Notice of Intention to Leave (Form 13) without penalty.
Tenants are entitled to remain in the property until the end of the lease term unless both parties mutually agree to terminate the agreement.
Potential purchasers must be advised that a lease is in place and its duration. The property cannot be sold with vacant possession unless an agreement to terminate has been formalised and the contract is made subject to vacant possession.
The tenant must also receive a Notice of Lessor’s Intention to Sell (Form 10) and appropriate Entry Notices (Form 9) for inspections.
In some cases, having a reliable tenant in place can appeal to investors, and the property may be sold with the tenancy continuing under the existing lease terms.
Do I pay commission if I sell the property myself?
Whether commission is payable depends entirely on the agreement you have signed.
In some cases, commission may still be due if the buyer was introduced through the agency’s marketing efforts.
You should discuss this with us directly or seek advice from your solicitor or conveyancer.
Can I sell my house myself?
There is no legal requirement to use an agent to sell your property. However, many sellers choose to engage a professional to help achieve the best possible price.
An agent provides expertise in marketing, negotiation and legislative requirements. Buyers also often feel more comfortable negotiating through an independent third party.
While selling privately may appear to save commission, it can involve significant time, stress and responsibility, without necessarily achieving a higher net result.
What is a Sales Agency Agreement?
A Sales Agency Agreement (Form 6) is a legally binding document that protects your rights and outlines the services the agent will provide.
It includes details such as the estimated sale price or price range, advertising costs, any existing tenancies and the commission payable upon a successful sale.
The agreement also defines the extent of the agent’s authority to act on your behalf.
You have the right to negotiate the terms and request any legally permitted amendments.
Most agreements include a fixed term, meaning they cannot be terminated during that period without mutual consent. Open-ended agreements must outline how they can be ended.
If you are unsure about your rights or how to terminate an agreement, you should seek independent legal advice.
If you are dissatisfied with an agent’s services, it is essential to formally end the existing agreement before appointing another agency to avoid potential commission disputes.
What is a sole agency agreement?
A sole agency agreement is similar to an exclusive agreement, with one key difference.
You appoint one agent to sell your property, but if you personally find a buyer who was not introduced by the agent, no commission is payable to the agent.
For further information about selling your property in Queensland, please visit here.
