Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent

Two agents, two very different appraisals — how do I decide in Melbourne in 2026?

Decide by verifying which agent has sold comparable properties in your suburb within the last 6–12 months and reviewing their actual results on realestate.com.au and domain.com.au. Compare written Comparative Market Analyses (CMA) from at least three agents, focusing on their evidence for the price range and the logic behind their recommended sale method. Discrepancies in […]

What red flags should I watch for when interviewing agents in Melbourne in 2026?

Key red flags include response times exceeding 24 hours, a lack of comparable sales in your suburb within the last 6–12 months, and non-itemised advertising costs. You should also be wary of price guides that do not reflect the reserve or agents who cannot provide a written Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Many vendors mistake a

What does an exclusive agency agreement mean in Victoria in 2026?

An exclusive agency agreement is a legal contract where a vendor appoints one agent to sell their property for a set period, typically 60–90 days in Melbourne. The agreement must itemise all Vendor Paid Advertising (VPA) costs and state the commission amount alongside an equivalent dollar figure. Vendors have a 3-day cooling-off period after signing

What’s the real difference between a local agent and one who covers all of Melbourne in 2026?

The key difference between a local agent and one covering all of Melbourne lies in their area-specific knowledge and network. Local agents, like those at Fletchers, specialize in specific areas such as Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula, and the Bellarine Peninsula, offering deeper understanding of local market trends and buyer preferences. This specialization can

How do I check an agent’s real track record before appointing them in 2026?

Verify an agent’s track record by confirming they have sold comparable properties in your suburb within the last 6–12 months using data from realestate.com.au and domain.com.au. Evaluate their performance based on days on market, price reductions, and whether properties sold at or above the guide. Interview at least three agents to compare written Comparative Market

What should I look for in an agent’s marketing plan in Melbourne in 2026?

A robust 2026 marketing plan must include itemised vendor-paid advertising (VPA) costs ranging from $6,500 to $12,000, clear portal strategies for realestate.com.au and domain.com.au, and evidence of comparable sales within the last 6–12 months. It should explicitly detail how the agent will generate competition despite dampened buyer urgency caused by early 2026 RBA rate hikes

What separates a good agent from a great one in Melbourne in 2026?

A great agent is distinguished by a proven track record of selling comparable properties in the specific suburb within the last 6–12 months and a response time of under 24 hours. They provide a data-backed rationale for the sale method and ensure price guides accurately reflect the reserve to comply with Victorian underquoting laws. Selecting

What does an agent’s commission actually include in Melbourne in 2026?

In Melbourne in 2026, agent commissions typically range from 1.6% to 2.5% of the final sale price, fully negotiable and required to be disclosed in both percentage and dollar terms within the Sales Authority. This commission covers the agent’s services in managing the sales process, but does *not* include vendor-paid advertising (VPA), which is a

What should I ask a real estate agent before signing anything in 2026?

In early 2026, selecting the right agent is crucial, but requires careful due diligence. Vendor confidence has increased, with listings up nearly 40% since December 2025 (Raine & Horne), however recent RBA rate hikes have introduced caution (Domain’s Dr Nicola Powell). Prioritise agents with a proven track record in your specific suburb, a clear pricing

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