Sean's Letter
Ask Your Agent for Their CV
You wouldn't hire a new employee without checking their credentials. So why would selling your most valuable asset be any different? Before you sign a mandate, ask the hard questions.
-
How many properties have you personally sold in this street or immediate area in the last 12 months?
Not their agency — them. Anyone can name-drop a brand. You want to know whether this specific person has real, boots-on-the-ground experience in your neighbourhood.
-
Can you provide five references from sellers you've represented in this area in the past year?
Standard practice when hiring anyone. Your home deserves the same due diligence.
-
How long have you been working in this area — and do you live or operate here full-time?
A genuine area specialist knows the streets, the buyers, and the nuances. A generalist covering half the city simply can't compete on that.
-
What comparable sales data informed your suggested listing price?
Any agent can throw out a number to win a mandate. Ask them to show their working — the data should be hyperlocal and recent.
-
What is your marketing plan — and what comes out of your pocket versus mine?
You want specifics: professional photography, video, portals, social media, database campaigns, show days. Vague answers are a red flag.
You're not just appointing an agent. You're hiring someone to manage the sale of your most valuable asset. Interview them accordingly.
If you're looking at selling or buying in Camps Bay, please don't hesitate to contact me — I would love to be of assistance.
