How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent: Expert Advice for Upper North Shore Buyers and Sellers

Choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying or selling property. In the competitive Sydney property market, especially in areas like the Upper North Shore, the right agent can significantly influence your experience — and your result.

Whether you’re a first-home buyer, upgrading, investing, or preparing to sell, working with a local real estate professional who aligns with your goals and understands your market is essential. In this guide, we share expert advice on how to select the best real estate agent for your needs.

 

Understand the Role of Real Estate Agents

Before diving into interviews or online research, it’s helpful to understand what real estate agents actually do — and how their responsibilities differ depending on whether you're buying or selling.

A great agent does more than list properties or open doors. They bring market knowledge, local insight, strategic thinking, and a network of trusted professionals (like mortgage brokers, inspectors, and legal advisors). Their job is to make the process smooth, well-informed, and as stress-free as possible.

In the Upper North Shore property market, where homes often move quickly and pricing can vary by street, an agent's insight and strategy can give you a real advantage.

 

Buyer’s Agent vs Seller’s Agent: What’s the Difference?

While many agents work with both buyers and sellers, it’s useful to understand the difference:

  • Buyer’s agents represent those looking to purchase property. They help you find suitable homes, arrange inspections, guide your negotiation, and manage due diligence.
  • Seller’s agents (or listing agents) work on behalf of homeowners. They handle pricing strategy, marketing, open homes, buyer management, and sale negotiations.

Depending on your situation, working with someone who specialises in your side of the transaction may offer a more tailored experience.

 

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Real Estate Agent

1. What Is Your Experience in the Local Market?

Look for an agent who knows your suburb inside and out. If you're buying or selling in places like Wahroonga, Turramurra, Lindfield, or Hornsby, ask for examples of recent sales or purchases in those areas. An agent who regularly works in the Upper North Shore real estate market can offer strategic guidance on pricing, buyer behaviour, and local amenities.

2. Can You Share Your Sales History or References?

Request examples of comparable properties they’ve sold (or helped buy) and ask for client references. A confident agent will have a strong track record and happy clients who can speak to their professionalism and results.

3. How Do You Communicate?

Ask how frequently the agent updates clients and through what channels (e.g. email, phone, text). Clear and consistent communication is essential — especially in a fast-moving market.

4. What’s Your Strategy for My Needs?

If you’re selling, ask about their marketing plan, including online exposure, buyer targeting, and photography. If you’re buying, ask how they approach property searches, off-market opportunities, and negotiation strategies. A clear and confident plan is a good sign you’re in capable hands.

 

Evaluating Fit: More Than Just Experience

Experience is important — but so is alignment.

  • Do they understand your goals (e.g. a fast sale, securing your forever home, maximising investment return)?
  • Do they listen to your concerns and explain the process clearly?
  • Do you feel comfortable and confident speaking with them?

Real estate is a partnership, and the right agent should feel like a trusted advisor — not a pushy salesperson.

 

Ready to Decide?

Once you’ve met with a few agents, review your notes and compare their strengths. You might find it helpful to make a pros and cons list.

Look for someone who:

  • Has strong local market experience
  • Aligns with your personal goals
  • Communicates well
  • Has the right energy and professionalism to represent you

Once you’ve made your choice, formalise the agreement and start the journey together.

 

Ready to take the next step?

At Chan Yahl, we understand that the right agent makes all the difference.
From first-home buyers to seasoned sellers, we partner with clients across Sydney’s Upper North Shore to match people with property — and with professionals they trust.

Let’s talk about what matters to you.

 

 

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