Choosing the right real estate broker can be the difference between a seamless experience and a stressful ordeal. Whether you’re preparing to sell a family home or searching for your next investment, asking the right questions before you commit to a broker is essential.
In a property market that continues to evolve across Australia—with varying conditions in metro, coastal, and regional areas—it’s more important than ever to work with a broker who’s not only experienced but aligned with your specific needs.
Here are the top 10 questions to ask your real estate broker before buying or selling in 2025.
1. Are You Licensed and Registered in This State or Territory?
This is the first—and most critical—question. All real estate brokers in Australia must be licensed by the relevant authority in their state or territory. Make sure their licence is current and that they’re legally allowed to represent you.
Tip: You can verify their registration with your state’s consumer affairs office or real estate regulatory body.
2. How Long Have You Been Working in This Area?
A broker with local expertise will understand the nuances of the suburb or region you’re buying or selling in. They’ll have insights into pricing, demand, and the type of buyers or properties currently dominating the market.
Look for:
- Suburb-specific knowledge
- Recent sales history in the area
- Familiarity with school zones, transport, and zoning changes
3. What Types of Properties Do You Specialise In?
Some brokers focus exclusively on residential homes, while others are specialists in commercial properties, luxury real estate, or off-the-plan developments. Make sure their experience aligns with your goals.
Ask about:
- Price range expertise
- Property types (apartments, townhouses, rural, etc.)
- Buyer/seller or landlord/tenant focus
4. What’s Your Marketing Strategy for Sellers?
If you’re selling, ask how the broker plans to promote your property. In 2025, digital marketing is just as important as traditional methods.
A good broker should offer:
- Professional photography and video
- Online listings on major portals
- Social media promotion
- Open house coordination
- Print media (if appropriate for your area)
5. How Will You Help Me Find the Right Property (for Buyers)?
If you’re buying, the broker should go beyond sending property links. Ask how they search for suitable listings, whether they have access to off-market opportunities, and how they’ll keep you informed of new properties as they arise.
6. What Are Your Fees or Commission Rates?
Transparency around fees is non-negotiable. Ask whether the broker’s commission is a flat rate or percentage-based and whether it includes marketing costs.
Also ask:
- Are there any upfront fees?
- Are auctioneer costs or staging services included?
- What happens if the property doesn’t sell?
7. How Do You Communicate with Clients?
Timely and clear communication is essential. Ask how the broker plans to update you and how quickly they typically respond.
Clarify:
- Will you receive weekly updates or ad hoc calls?
- Do they prefer phone, email, or text?
- Will you deal directly with them or an assistant?
8. Can You Provide Recent Client References or Reviews?
Reputable brokers should be able to provide testimonials or put you in touch with past clients. Online reviews on independent platforms are also worth checking.
Tip: Ask about properties similar to yours or your search criteria.
9. What Is Your Strategy for Negotiations?
Whether buying or selling, you need a broker who can negotiate effectively. Ask how they approach offers, price adjustments, and counteroffers.
For sellers: How do they handle lowball offers?
For buyers: How do they assess fair value and structure competitive offers?
10. What Makes You Different from Other Brokers?
This open-ended question allows the broker to share their unique approach or point of difference. It could be their network, data-driven insights, years of experience, or something personal like a hands-on service style.
Listen for:
- Passion
- Specific examples
- Personalised value, not just generic claims
Conclusion: Don’t Just Choose a Broker—Interview Them
In today’s property climate, working with the right real estate broker is more important than ever. Asking these 10 questions will help you cut through the noise, identify professionals who are genuinely invested in your outcome, and make an informed choice.
Whether you’re entering the market for the first time or navigating a complex sale, a qualified and communicative broker can help you achieve your property goals with confidence.
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