Selling a property is one of the biggest financial transactions in most people's lives. A sound market strategy, professional negotiation and targeted marketing are crucial to achieving the best price. Studies show that property sellers generally make more profit with the assistance of an estate agent, even when the agent's commission is taken into account. However, not all estate agents deliver equally good results, which makes choosing the right partner all the more important.
There are countless estate agents in Switzerland, as the sector is considered lucrative. However, the quality of service can vary greatly. While some agents work with superficial knowledge and minimal commitment, good agents stand out for their local expertise, professional approach, extensive market knowledge and strong network. A qualified broker knows the regional market, is familiar with the specifics of the market area and has in-depth training and practical experience.
In this article, you will find out what tasks and services an estate agent provides for you, what you should look out for when choosing an estate agent, what types of estate agents there are on the market and how Bestag can support you in choosing an estate agent. With this information, you are well equipped to set the course for a successful property sale.
This chapter highlights the various tasks that a real estate agent takes on, but many more points could be added. Basically, they act as a link between buyers and sellers and third parties (notaries, etc.). Expertise, communication skills and market knowledge are required to successfully complete the sale.
Real estate agents inspect your property and check the relevant documents, from the land register extract to the building permit and invoices for renovation or maintenance work. On this basis and by taking into account the location, facilities and infrastructure, they prepare a market value estimate. Experienced local estate agents not only use hedonic valuation models, but also current comparable sales and regional demand criteria such as size, number of rooms and location. This additional information helps to estimate the market price more accurately and to market your property optimally.
Want to find out more about property valuations? Then read our article: "Property valuation: How to find the true value of your property"
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An experienced and competent real estate agent can advise you on renovations and maintenance work. For example, a new coat of paint may make sense, as the added value it brings exceeds the costs. For other measures, however, caution is advisable.
After the valuation, the estate agent will discuss the asking price with you. This should offer room for negotiation, but should be set neither too high nor too low so as not to deter buyers or risk losses. As soon as you have reached an agreement, the estate agent will prepare high-quality marketing material: professional photos, appealing advertisement texts and a tasteful brochure. The aim is to present the property as particularly valuable and to anchor a higher value in the subconscious of prospective buyers. Regionally specialised estate agents also have a search index to contact suitable buyers directly. In this way, your property is presented in the best possible way and the sales process is organised efficiently.
A real estate agent in Switzerland takes on various tasks for the seller in dealing with prospective buyers. He receives incoming contact enquiries and carefully qualifies them by checking the seriousness and financial standing of the prospective buyers. This ensures that only suitable buyers are considered. The estate agent also organises and coordinates viewings efficiently, bundles them if necessary and handles communication with interested parties. His professional approach makes it possible to structure the sales process and save time, while at the same time ensuring that the property is presented in the best possible way.
A good estate agent conducts negotiations in your interests and protects you from stress and hasty decisions. While the prospective buyer wants to lower the price, the estate agent tries to achieve the best possible result for you. He reads the buyer's signals, advises you and acts as an intermediary. An experienced estate agent recognises when the maximum price has been reached and prevents you from selling your property too cheaply. This professional support ensures a smooth sales process and an optimal conclusion.
As soon as the buyer has been found, the estate agent draws up a reservation contract. He also draws up the purchase contract at the notary's office and ensures that all legal formalities are completed correctly. During this process, the estate agent advises the seller, clarifies any open questions and ensures that all contractual conditions are clear in order to guarantee a smooth completion.
You have gained an insight into the diverse tasks of a real estate agent. These activities require expertise, experience and a high degree of professionalism. Choosing the right estate agent is therefore crucial to ensure a successful collaboration. But how can you recognise a really good broker? In this section, you will find out which characteristics and criteria are important in order to make an informed decision and find the ideal partner for your property sale.
A good estate agent knows the local market like the back of their hand. Check whether your property matches their portfolio and whether they have already successfully brokered similar properties in the region. This specialisation not only allows them to make a more accurate valuation, but also to approach potential buyers in a targeted manner. An experienced estate agent often has a network of potential buyers that they know from previous sales. This saves time and increases the chances of a successful transaction
A professional estate agent offers a wide range of services that go beyond simply finding buyers. Ideally, he will accompany you from the initial consultation to the notarisation of the sale. He will prepare a convincing sales dossier, organise viewings, negotiate with interested parties and ensure that all steps are handled correctly. He will also advise you on complex issues such as calculating property gains tax or clarifying building requirements. This all-round support takes a lot of pressure off you and ensures that the sales process runs smoothly. Check which services are included in the commission offered.
Find out about his or her professional background and complete further training. Certifications or memberships in industry associations, such as the Swiss Real Estate Association (SVIT), can be an indication of professionalism and expertise. Because the industry is considered lucrative, there are also many career changers.
An experienced estate agent is difficult to surprise and keeps a cool head even in challenging situations. They know the typical stumbling blocks in property sales and how to avoid them.
The sales dossier is the figurehead of your property and makes the first impression on potential buyers. A good dossier is visually appealing, clearly laid out and contains all the relevant information such as the key data of the property, floor plans, high-quality photos, etc.
Take a look at a sample dossier to get a first impression of what you can expect. A good sales dossier presents the property in the best possible light and creates confidence among prospective buyers.
Now you know what tasks an estate agent takes on and what is important when choosing the right partner. But did you know that there are different types of estate agents, which differ in terms of their commission model and scope of services? In this article, you will find out what types of brokers there are and what you can expect from them.
Traditional estate agents charge the usual commission in the region for the sale of your property. In most cantons, this is two to three per cent of the sales price. In touristy mountain regions, however, the commission can rise to five per cent. These estate agents are often characterised by in-depth market knowledge and comprehensive services. Their experience and network ensure that properties are valued in line with the market and that potential buyers are approached efficiently. This is why traditional estate agents are considered the first choice for owners who want a smooth and professional sales process.
Discount estate agents offer their services for a lower commission, usually less than or equal to two per cent of the sale price. However, they are often less experienced and offer a reduced scope of services, which can affect the quality of their work. These estate agents tend to value properties at a lower price in order to facilitate the sale, but this can lead to financial losses for the owner. There are particularly many career changers in this sector.
Fixed-price estate agents charge a fixed fee, which is usually just under five figures - regardless of the sale price achieved for the property. While this method makes the costs calculable, the estate agents lack a financial incentive to achieve the highest possible sales price. This can lead to properties being undervalued in order to speed up the sales process. For owners who value a quick sale at a low cost, fixed price agents can be an option. However, to maximise profits, caution is advised as there is a lack of motivation to achieve an optimal selling price.
In this article, you have learnt a lot about estate agents. However, choosing the right estate agent in Switzerland remains challenging, as there are many factors to consider. This is exactly where Bestag comes into play: We are not an estate agent, but support you in finding the most suitable estate agent for your property sale - independently, data-based and efficiently.
Mr. Trummer talks about the collaboration with Bestag (in german).
Thanks to our database, which is unique in Switzerland, we select estate agents based on data and experience. Since 2017, we have analysed over 500,000 property sales listings based on 15 detailed data points (sales performance in your area, marketing time, actual square metre prices achieved, portfolio, etc.). Our database is continuously enriched with current sales listings and the experience of our team, who meet estate agents in person every day. Using a specially developed algorithm, we identify the three most suitable local estate agents for your property.
We organise a viewing of your property by the three selected agents. They will evaluate your property, introduce themselves and submit individual offers to you. This direct competitive situation not only ensures more attractive offers, but also gives you the opportunity to compare the estate agents and their concepts in detail. You receive a sound basis for selecting the best estate agent for your needs.
Would you like to learn more about successful real estate sales? Then read our article "Selling property made easy"
Instead of making decisions based on recommendations or gut feelings, you receive a clear and concise basis for decision-making. The data, experience and offers of the estate agents enable you to make a rational and well-informed choice in order to achieve the best possible sales price for your property.
A neutral, regional customer advisor from Bestag will be at your side throughout the entire process. They will guide you professionally and independently to ensure that your interests are optimally represented. With Bestag, you have a strong partner at your side who ensures transparency, quality and your satisfaction.
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