REPUTATION AND LONGEVITY
Reputation matters in the real estate industry. Look for agents and agencies with a reputable track record of successful deals and satisfied clients. Longevity as an agent and most importantly as a real estate business owner indicates stability and expertise. Established agencies have weathered market fluctuations and are likely to have a deep understanding of the local real estate landscape.

AGENCY SUPPORT AND MANAGEMENT TEAM
A crucial aspect of selecting the right agency is assessing the support they offer. Reputable agencies are backed by a competent team that provides valuable resources and guidance. Check if the agency has a robust support system in place, covering aspects such as finance, marketing, and compliance.

BEWARE OF POP-UP AGENTS AND AGENCIES
While there’s room for new players, exercise caution when dealing with pop-up agents or agencies with a single or two-person operation. Limited experience and resources may pose challenges, and the absence of a broader support structure can lead to potential pitfalls in your real estate journey.

ASSESSING TEAM COMPETENCE
Beyond the primary agent, enquire about the competence of the entire team. A successful real estate transaction involves various aspects. Ensure the team understands and can navigate these complexities and provide you with a well-rounded service.

FINANCING EXPERTISE
Choose an agency with a team well-versed in finance, trust accounting and one that has an administrative and accounting team. It’s very risky to place your greatest asset and have deposits for sales and marketing handled by amateurs who are not trained in this field and trying to run the whole show from agent to marketing to finance. Remember your deposits are being held in their trusts until settlement, you want to know it’s in safe hands.

In summary, choosing the right real estate agent and agency involves a thorough assessment of their reputation, longevity, support structure, and team competence. By considering these factors, you position yourself for a successful and stress-free real estate experience. Remember, a well-established and reputable agency provides not only individual expertise but also a comprehensive package, ensuring you have the support you need at every step of the process.