Let’s face it. Selling or buying property is one of the biggest (and life-changing) decisions you’ll ever make as an investor or homeseeker. And just like you wouldn’t hire the first builder you meet to renovate your home, you shouldn’t settle on a real estate agent without doing your homework.
At Best Local Real Estate Agents, we help you compare real estate agents the smart way. From transparent agent fees to real reviews, we make sure you’re matched with top agents who know your local market inside out all with no strings attached.
But here’s the thing: not all agents are worth relying on. So, how do you compare agents, avoid inflated costs, and find the right person for your unique needs? Let’s break it down.
Why Comparing Agents is Worth the Time (and Money)
A good agent can add tens of thousands of dollars to your sale price. A bad one can leave your home sitting on the market for months, or worse, sold well under its value.
You’d be surprised how much real estate agent fees can vary, even within the same suburb. For instance, commissions in South Australia generally range between 1.7% and 2.5% of the sale price. That might sound like a small gap, but on a $700,000 property, you’re looking at anywhere from $11,900 to $17,500 in commission, not including marketing fees, photography, or staging.
And that’s the thing. It’s not just about commission percentage. Some agents include marketing and styling in their package. Others don’t. Some charge fixed rates, some work on tiered commissions. Without a direct comparison service, it’s nearly impossible to see who’s offering genuine value.
Example: Two agents quote you similar fees, say 2%. But one includes digital advertising, a professional photo shoot, and video walkthroughs in that price. The other charges you separately for those, adding $3,000 to your bill. If you didn’t compare them carefully, you’d never know.
How to Compare Real Estate Agents
Let’s get practical. Here’s what you need to look for when comparing agents and how to cut through the sales talk.
1. Performance in Your Local Area
A great agent in one suburb isn’t necessarily the best fit for another. Look at their recent current listings and past sales in your area. Do they regularly sell homes like yours? How quickly are those homes selling? Are they achieving prices in line with or above the market average?
Tip: Ask for a recent sale they handled that’s similar to your property. A good agent will be happy to share. A vague answer is a red flag.
2. Breakdown of Agent Fees
Don’t just ask for a percentage. Request a written breakdown of costs. That includes:
- Commission
- Marketing (online, print, social media)
- Professional photography
- Styling or staging
- Admin or “withdrawal” fees
Also clarify if there are any obligations if you change your mind. Some agents charge a fee if you pull your listing.
3. Real Reviews From Real Clients
Some websites can give you a sense of what past clients are saying. But even better, ask the agent directly for references. Pick up the phone and speak to one or two past clients, especially if your sale is a bit unique (e.g., rural block, off-market, development site).
Using a Comparison Service: What to Expect
If manually comparing agents sounds like a full-time job, that’s where platforms like Best Local Real Estate Agents come in.
All you need to do is access our real estate agent comparison page if you need an agent in Adelaide or anywhere in South Australia.
Compare the agents on the page and select one by tapping on “Request a free appraisal.” Fill in a few basic details (name, email, contact, type of property, price range, and when you need the property sold or purchased). Then, send.
Your details will be sent immediately as an SMS and Email to your agent and they will get straight back to you.
Alternatively, you can call your preferred agent directly by tapping on the “Call” button by the right side.
Here’s what you’ll typically get from a solid agent-neutral comparison service like Best Local Real Estate Agents:
- A shortlist of top agents in your suburb (not just paid ads)
- Sales history and local performance
- Access to a free property report to understand value and market trends
- Option to contact agents directly, or let them reach out to you
Importantly, good platforms are obligation-free; no commitments unless you decide to move forward.
The Mistakes People Make When Choosing Agents And How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Going with the Cheapest Commission
It’s tempting to pick the agent with the lowest fee. But ask yourself: are they cutting costs on marketing? Are they experienced negotiators? A 0.5% cheaper rate doesn’t matter if they sell your home for $50,000 less. That’s why it’s important to use our property calculator to find out what your home’s worth with before speaking to an agent.
Mistake 2: Hiring a Family Friend
It might feel easier, but selling property is business. If your friend doesn’t know your market well or has limited recent sales, that relationship might not be worth the potential drop in price or service quality.
Mistake 3: Not Asking About Marketing Strategy
A good agent should have a clear plan: which platforms they’ll advertise on, how they’ll target the right buyers, and how they’ll differentiate your home from others. If their answer is vague, that’s your cue to keep searching.
How to Choose a Real Estate Agent in Australia
In Australia, most agents are licensed by their state or territory regulator. But beyond that, here’s how to narrow it down:
- Start with a comparison platform to filter by experience and local success.
- Meet at least two agents for a proper chat — in person, if possible.
- Compare their marketing strategies for your property type and price point.
- Ask about communication — how often will they update you? Will it be them, or an assistant?
- Understand the exit terms if the relationship doesn’t work out.
If an agent tries to pressure you into signing straight away, walk away. The right person won’t rush you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay to compare real estate agents?
No. The Best Local Real Estate Agent platform offers a free service. There are no upfront costs or hidden strings attached. We get paid by agents only when they meet our standards and you choose to work with them.
Can I use this to find a property manager for my investment property?
Yes, absolutely. You can also compare local real estate agents who handle property management, not only sales. Especially useful if you’re focused on rental return and reliable tenant screening.
What if my suburb is small or rural?
We match you with local agents who operate in and around your area — even if you’re outside metro zones. Often, these agents have better knowledge of smaller pockets than big franchises.
How quickly will agents respond?
Usually within 24–48 hours. You can also take control by messaging agents directly through your dashboard.
Do I have to go with the agents suggested?
Not at all. There’s no obligation. Think of it like getting tailored options — the final decision is always yours.
Final Thoughts: Take the Time, Do the Research
It’s easy to underestimate the importance of choosing the right agent. But when you’re talking about your biggest asset, doing a bit of extra legwork to compare real estate agents can pay off in a major way.
Whether you’re in Adelaide or the Adelaide Hills, Glenelg or Gawler, using a trusted comparison service helps you make a clear-eyed decision: not only based on price, but on performance, integrity, and local know-how.
Start by checking your free property report, then look at which great agents are making an impact in your area. Send us a message for support if necessary. Ask questions. Be curious. This is your sale — own it.
