The decision to sell as a retiree is almost always intrinsically linked to whatever is planned for the next stage of your life – from financing the balance of your retirement to further expansion of your property portfolio.
 
Too many retirees are subjected to disrespectful, dismissive behaviours from a range of professionals, so be sure you know your goals going in and stand your ground when required. These tips will help you interview your prospective agent and find the best possible person to help you to achieve your property goals.
 
1. Who, where, what, and why
 
In any first-time meeting with someone new there is inevitable ice breaking chit chat, which not only eases people into conversations, it also offers key information about the agent you might be working with. Questions about where they’re from, where they live, where they grew up, how long they’ve been in the game, whether they’re single, married or in a relationship, parenting, or empty nesting, and so on, all provide key details for you about who you might be dealing with. The exchange works both ways too – they might ask personal questions of you as well. The answers are useful for everyone involved as they give clear detail on who you all are, what you each want out of the relationship and how compatible you think you might be to work on the sale of your property together.  
 
2. What’s their cred in the local area?
 
If you’ve lived there a long time and your prospective agents claims to be well established in your neighbourhood and surrounds, chances are you’ll have common ground to explore. You should know some people in common, have kids or grandkids that went to the same schools, or maybe share a favourite local barista or pizzeria. These personal insights mean they might have a foot in the door for new buyers to the market, or opportunities that may not have become public yet. In addition, though, they should be able to offer some real time insights about what’s been happening locally regarding property listings, rentals and urban developments and future projects.
 
3. Who is their back up?
 
Asking if they work independently or have close engagement with the office team will tell you what back-ups you have if you can’t reach the agent on the phone, or if they fall ill or have an emergency. Many real estate offices have close knit teams, who work with sophisticated software and communication tools that can provide you with up-to-date information as soon as you need it. This team focused approach also shows that your agent is realistic about the process and with the ability to share the workload, can approach your needs with more diligence and patience – a quality that is highly appreciated by seniors in particular. 
 
Remember – do your research, ask the questions, listen, and reflect on the answers and trust your instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, keep looking and find someone else!

 

by Maarten Gravendyk 

Sales Consultant - 0438 358 116

palmbeachfn.com.au June 2021

First National Palm Beach

Ph: 07 5559 9600