No-stress way to choose your agent

Two-thirds of sellers report that selecting the right agent causes the most stress. That’s according to real estate comparison website OpenAgent.

The Australian enterprise recognised this and started the business in 2012 to make comparing and choosing the right agent easier. “OpenAgent has since quickly grown into the people’s champion in real estate, helping match sellers with the right agents, fairly and transparently,” said co-chief executive Zoe Pointon.

“It’s like having an independent restaurant review site, only for real estate agents.

“Evidence shows that choosing the right agent can help to sell a property faster, easier and usually for much more money. No wonder so many downsizers have taken advantage of OpenAgent’s free personalised agent search service to date.”

Jude Clift used the service when looking for an agent when her mother-in-law was downsizing.

“The biggest positive in comparing agents through the site was that Open Agent had done the groundwork, the homework and research to recommend an agent that was personal, had a great sales record and knew the local area like the back of her hand,” she said.

“Most importantly she was very patient with my mother-in-law.

“The price we got for the property we sold exceeded our expectations – over $200,000 above the reserve. I believed that result would not have been achieved unless we used OpenAgent that found us the right agent.” So how does it work?

“Sellers can quickly compare local agents online ... just by popping in their postcode and a few details,” Mrs Pointon said.

“Then after a quick phone chat, OpenAgent recommends a shortlist of agents who have outstanding sales results and customer reviews, and match the seller’s preferences.”

Sellers are then free to interview and choose an agent, with no obligation. It’s a free service to sellers, with OpenAgent receiving a set standardised fee from the agent – after they have successfully sold the property.

“Thousands of Australians have used OpenAgent to find a fantastic agent and sell with confidence,” Mrs Pointon said.