What Makes a Good Real Estate Agent?
Published on 2025-10-22 · by AgentSelly
The sale of a property is one of the most important financial decisions many people will make in their lives. The process? Usually anything but simple and transparent! However, it doesn’t have to be that way – with the right real estate advisor by your side, the sale can proceed stress-free and successfully. In this article, you will learn what to look for when choosing the right real estate agent, which professional competencies are particularly important, and how you can ensure that you make the best decision.
The current situation for property sellers in Switzerland
The real estate market in Switzerland is characterized by high prices and strong demand, especially in urban areas. At the same time, selling a property is the largest financial investment for most people. Therefore, choosing the right real estate agent plays a crucial role. A good agent not only knows the market value of your property but can also sell it within the intended timeframe for the best possible price. Incorrect pricing strategies or long marketing times can lead to price corrections of 5-10%, which can quickly mean losses of CHF 50,000 or more.
The number of real estate agents and the variety of different business and pricing models make it difficult for many sellers to keep track. While some agents traditionally operate with a fixed percentage of the sale price, new models have emerged due to digitalization. For example, at AgentSelly, the commission is 2.5% of the transaction volume with a minimum of CHF 12,500 and a maximum of CHF 35,000. There is no obligation for a down payment, as payment only occurs upon successful sale, which minimizes the risk for clients. Other providers operate with similar models and offer flat fees or lower percentages. However, depending on the provider, a down payment may be required.
What should I look for when searching for the right real estate agent?
A good real estate agent possesses several essential qualities: experience, education, a strong network, and trustworthiness. Choosing a good real estate agent is not only about the agent's competence and experience but also about the agency they represent. For instance, AgentSelly offers a free property valuation and demonstrates through their data competence what approximate sale price can be expected. These are clear advantages that you should consider in combination with your agent's personal experience.
Here are some of the most important factors to consider when selecting an agent:
Experience and market knowledge: A good agent knows the local real estate market inside and out. They should have a solid understanding of market prices in your area and know what factors influence the value of your property. However, experience is not only reflected in the number of completed transactions but also in how the agent handles challenges and special situations.
Reliability and transparency: Trust is paramount when working with a real estate agent. A reputable agent discloses all costs and conditions and keeps you regularly informed about the status of the sales process. Pay attention to whether the agent provides you with honest and realistic assessments or if they try to inflate your expectations.
Marketing and negotiation skills: A successful property sale requires more than just publishing an offer on a platform. A good agent knows how to present a property in the best light, whether through professional photos, virtual tours, or targeted advertising. Additionally, they must possess strong negotiation skills to achieve the best possible price for your property.
Network and reach: Here, the agency and its technological competence play an important role. The larger the database of potential buyers, the better for you. Your agent can tap into a strong network that may not have otherwise considered your property. This can be particularly valuable if you are selling a unique property that is not suitable for everyone.
Data and technology competence: With the increasing digitalization in the real estate market, strong data and technology competence is essential. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is also becoming increasingly important. The value of a property is influenced, for example, by data from other transactions of similar properties. The free valuation of your property by AgentSelly also utilizes data for the calculation.
Exclusion criteria that should raise your alarm bells include negative reviews or inadequate training. Be cautious of inflated price estimates, unrealistic promises, or aggressive sales behavior.
Checklist: How to find the right real estate agent
To ensure that you do not overlook anything, we have put together a short checklist for you. By considering the following points, you are on the right track:
Check references: Ask the agent for references and read customer reviews online. Satisfied customers are a good sign of the agent's quality.
Understand costs and fees: Make sure you understand the agent's fee structure. Ask about any additional costs and clarify when payment occurs.
Thoroughly review the contract: Read the agent contract carefully before signing it. Pay attention to the notice periods and the exact terms of cooperation.
Compare multiple agents: Obtain offers from several agents before making a decision. This way, you can get a feel for who is the best fit for you and your property.
Ask questions: Do not hesitate to ask the agent questions. A good agent will take the time to explain everything to you and address your concerns.
Conclusion: Choosing the right real estate advisor should be well considered
Are you ready to sell your property? Then it’s best to start with a free and non-binding property valuation. This will give you an initial benchmark for your property, which you can discuss with your real estate agent.
With the right agent by your side, you can rely on a smooth sales process and competent support from A to Z.