Should I Use Local Agent Finder to Choose A Real Estate Agent?

Local Agent Finder has been ramping up its promotion in recent times, particularly through increased TV advertising. The site promises to be "Australia’s leading real estate agent comparison service, and the only place you’ll find real estate agent fees". 

From the perspective of a home owner looking to sell a property, or a current or prospective landlord wishing to rent their property, the service seems compelling. 

However, what is not transparent from the excitement of the marketing is just how many agencies are using the service in your area. Or more importantly, how many agencies are NOT listing themselves on the service. 

Recommendations are based on limited options

When using Local Agent Finder, you are only being offered comparisons of real estate agencies which have signed up to be listed on the service. Many agencies (including ourselves) have consciously chosen not to do so. 

Why? Think of it like this. If you were buying a car (a much smaller investment than a property transaction!), would you go into one dealership and make your decision based on the small number of vehicles they happened to stock? Or would you consider your options more broadly to make sure you were making the very best decision (not just the best of a pre-selected bunch)?

Local Agent Finder will only present you comparisons of real estate agents who have opted in to use their service. The use of the service is at a cost to the agency where many other sources of leads are not. This is one of many reasons real estate agents choose not to list themselves.

Don't put time saving at the top of your investment priorities

Local Agent Finder may save you time in searching for a real estate agent or property manager. However, this should not be mistaken for providing you the best available option. The cost of this convenience is that you are presented relatively few businesses to choose from. 

If ever there was a case to take time in thoroughly researching your options, this is it. Your property is the most high-value and long-term asset you own. Using an online tool to save a few minutes and compare limited options is just not worth it. 

If you'd like to hear first hand how we can help with management of your rental property, and why we encourage you to consider all property management options before making a decision, contact us today. 

We have the time to talk about your investment. Don't you?