Buying or selling property carries significant financial and emotional weight. The stakes are high, whether you're managing an investment or your own home.
The good news is that you don’t have to go it alone. A real estate agent can be your best guide and partner throughout this process. They can advise you on market conditions and indicate whether you are receiving or paying a fair price.
Determining which questions to ask your real estate agent is crucial, as their responses will guide your decisions throughout the process. We’ve rounded up essential questions below that can help lead to a successful sale or purchase.
What to ask your real estate agent when buying a house
Understanding property background and condition
What is the history of this property?
You may worry about prying, but most people want to know a little history about the property they are looking to buy. One of the first questions to ask is why the vendor is selling their home. This isn’t about being nosey, as this can be helpful when negotiating a private treaty sale.
It can give you valuable insight into the seller’s mindset and help you form a stronger strategy when preparing your best offer. For example, if they have already bought a new house and are in a hurry to sell, they may be more willing to accept a lower price. Perhaps the property is being sold due to an interstate transfer, a divorce, or the need to downsize.
Ask about the age of the property and any previous ownership changes. A home that has been owned by the same vendor for years is positive as it means they have enjoyed living there – and hopefully, you will, too. Be sure to check for any incidents such as fires or floods that could cause underlying damage.
Are there any pending legal or financial issues with this property?
Another thing to enquire about with your realtor is whether there are disputes or any other encumbrances that might affect the ownership of a property.
If you’re looking to buy an apartment, it is essential to ask for the strata report as it may raise red flags such as potentially costly building defects. It will also provide important details such as the finances of the strata, building insurance and any planned works.
What is the condition of major systems (plumbing, roof and structure)?
Understanding the condition of key structural and mechanical systems, such as the roof, plumbing and overall foundation, is essential before committing to a property. Issues in these areas can lead to significant repair costs and may affect the home’s safety and long-term value. Your agent should be able to highlight known concerns and advise whether further inspections are required.
Market value, pricing and local insights
Can you provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) for this area?
Requesting data on recent sales of comparable properties can help determine if the asking price is reasonable.
A good agent will already know what other homes in your suburb have fetched. So, start by asking if there have been any similar properties that have sold recently. There is no point in comparing the price achieved for a double-storey home with a pool if you are looking to buy a single-level villa with a courtyard. So make sure they are ‘comparative sales’ results.
Your agent should be able to tell you about pricing trends and any peak periods to go to market.
What are the zoning regulations of this area?
A local agent can be a wealth of information as they have insights about what is happening in your suburb. These include demographics, pricing, population growth rate and local trends.
Importantly, you need to understand what you can and cannot do with the property – so ask about zoning regulations. Asking your agent this essential question will be crucial if you plan to make modifications or use it for specific purposes.
Sustainability, efficiency and long-term considerations
What is the energy efficiency rating of this home?
Understanding a home’s environmental impact can help to estimate future utility costs – so this is an important question to ask the selling agent.
The Australian Government is working with State and Territory Governments to develop energy performance assessments for existing homes. This is known as the NatHERS – Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme.
In the meantime, be sure to check if the property is fitted with solar panels, proper insulation and LED light bulbs which can make a huge difference to your electricity bill.
What are property taxes, local costs and ongoing expenses?
Property taxes, local fees and recurring expenses can significantly influence your long-term financial commitment. Your agent should provide transparent estimates to help you evaluate whether the property aligns with your budget and investment goals.
Essential Questions to Ask Before Selling Your House
Agent strategy, pricing and marketing approach
What is your track record and recent comparable sales?
Evaluating your agent’s track record and recent comparable sales provides insight into their market knowledge and success rate. Strong, relevant results indicate their capability to secure competitive outcomes for properties similar to yours.
What specific marketing strategies do you recommend for my property?
Your real estate agent should have a comprehensive marketing plan with Internet, social media, signboards, local marketing and newspaper advertising to promote your property. Other elements could include professional photography, copywriting, real estate portals and even a personalised website for your property. The right approach with a combination of elements can ensure your home obtains maximum exposure and the best possible price. Promoting your property is an essential part of achieving a successful sale. LJ Hooker excels in tailored property marketing strategies. Explore our full range of property marketing services to understand how we maximise exposure and results.
What improvement would increase the value of my home the most?
Don’t splash out on a brand-new kitchen or bathroom if it will not boost your sale price. Ask real estate agent about any upgrades you should be considering – after all, they have first-hand insight into what buyers are looking for in your area. When renovating for sale, play it safe and opt for changes that will maximise appeal.
Your agents would likely suggest hiring a professional home stylist to make sure your home stands out from the competition. Remember you don’t need to make over every room just the key selling areas such as the kitchen, lounge and master bedroom.
Process, timeline and sale expectations
Can you show me a timeline of the selling process?
Market conditions and where you live will determine whether it will take a few weeks or even a few months to sell your home. It is important to set realistic expectations, so be sure to ask your realtor about the anticipated timeline.
Follow this up by checking on what the current ‘days on the market’ are in your area. This can also help you to plan your next move.
Your agent will suggest whether you should be selling by auction, private treaty or another option. Remember each method has its advantages and possible drawbacks. Whatever the answer, be assured your agent wants you to achieve the best possible outcome.
What are the potential challenges in selling my property?
While you can’t change your block size or location, you can make changes to improve the street appeal and make any necessary repairs.
Your agent should highlight any areas of concern and possible solutions. For instance, if your interior is dark, it may be worthwhile painting the walls white and adding a skylight. If the garden is over-run with weeds, it may be as simple as getting out the lawn mower.
When your home is in tip-top shape you will be able to command a higher sales price. Ensure all required repairs are completed before going to market to minimise the risk of issues arising at settlement.
What are your fees and all associated selling costs?
An upfront explanation of fees and selling costs helps you evaluate value and prevents surprises later. Your agent should provide a transparent, itemised breakdown of all charges involved in the sale.
Negotiation, offers and buyer management
How do you handle multiple offers?
It’s essential to know the agent’s strategy for dealing with competitive bidding situations to ensure you get the best deal. You should be kept informed of all offers.
Let your agent know of your preferred method of communication - whether text, phone call or email so you can respond quickly.
Selling via private treaty can be a real test of your negotiation skills. Explore our practical tips to help you achieve a successful sale.
Let LJ Hooker help you
If you’re ready to find out what your home is worth, contact us for a free expert property appraisal here to get a better understanding of where your house stands in the current market today. Alternatively, if you would like to speak to one of our real estate agents, we invite you to use our agent locator to find an LJ Hooker expert in your local area.
DISCLAIMER - The information provided is for guidance and informational purposes only and does not replace independent business, legal and financial advice which we strongly recommend. Whilst the information is considered true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact the accuracy of the information provided. LJ Hooker will not accept responsibility or liability for any reliance on the blog information, including but not limited to, the accuracy, currency or completeness of any information or links.
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