Find the right agent by verifying they have sold comparable properties in your suburb within the last 6–12 months and interviewing at least three candidates. Request written CMAs and a clear marketing plan, then assess their responsiveness and the quality of their active buyer database to ensure they can generate genuine competition in a price-sensitive market.
Vendor confidence improved through late 2025, but RBA rate hikes in February and March 2026 have introduced new caution and dampened buyer urgency (Domain). Selecting an agent now requires moving beyond general reputation to verify specific, recent performance data and communication speed.
Verifying local performance
Review an agent’s sold listings on realestate.com.au and domain.com.au to see if properties sold at or above the guide. Check for price reductions and the number of days on market to determine if the agent prices accurately or relies on reductions to find a buyer.
Assessing strategy and responsiveness
Interview a minimum of three agents and request a written Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), a proposed price range, and a recommended sale method. A response time exceeding 24 hours to your initial inquiry is a red flag for how they will manage buyer inquiries during a campaign.
Evaluating buyer reach
Ask for evidence of the agent’s office database of active buyers and their capacity to generate competition. With 60–65% of Melbourne properties selling at or below asking price (Bamboo Routes), the agent’s ability to identify the 35–40% of high-demand buyers is critical to achieving a premium result.
The appraisal spread
Recent RBA rate hikes have made the market more price sensitive (LJ Hooker). This often creates a gap between an agent’s appraisal designed to win a listing and the actual market capacity, where typical private-treaty sales in Melbourne now close approximately 3% below the initial asking price.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to sell an investment property in Melbourne?
Spring (September–November) remains the peak season for auction volume and competition, followed by Autumn (March–May). February serves as the traditional restart after summer. While winter sees lower volume, buyers active between June and August are typically more serious and motivated to purchase.
What is the difference between auction and private treaty results?
The typical private-treaty sale in Melbourne closes approximately 3% below the initial asking price. Conversely, well-run auctions in desirable suburbs can still achieve results at or slightly above the quoted range, provided the agent can generate genuine competition among buyers.
How do I know if an agent’s price estimate is realistic?
Request a written CMA and ask specifically how the agent arrived at their estimate. Compare this against sold listings in your suburb from the last 6–12 months. Ensure the agent can justify the price based on current 2026 data rather than late 2025 trends.
Should I be worried about recent interest rate hikes?
RBA rate hikes in early 2026 have introduced buyer caution (Domain). However, buyer activity does not stop; the market simply moderates and becomes more price sensitive (LJ Hooker). Success now depends on precise pricing and targeting the remaining urgent buyer pool.
Questions to ask your agent
- How many properties have you sold in this specific suburb in the past 12 months?
- Why is auction vs private sale the recommended method for this specific investment property?
- Who is the primary contact throughout the campaign—you or an assistant?
This article contains general market information based on data current as at April 2026. It does not constitute financial, legal, or real estate advice specific to your property or circumstances. For an appraisal and tailored advice, speak with a Fletchers agent in your area.