How to choose a real estate agent?
The most common questions about working with an agent
Choosing a real estate agent is the most important step in selling a property — this is the person whose job is to sell it at the highest possible price within a reasonable time. Above all, it is worth checking the agent's practical experience and how many real transactions they have closed. It also matters whether they dabble in everything or work within a specific niche. Today's market favours experts, not people who claim competence in every area at once.
Ask questions about experience in the segment you care about — for example, how many sales of similar apartments the person has handled and what challenges they faced. You can also ask for more specific information: how they cooperate with other agencies, whether they currently have active buyers, which documents they review before accepting a property into their portfolio, and whether they can back up their competence with concrete materials.
Bear in mind, though, that agents — like clients — vary greatly. They cannot all be put in one box.
How do you check whether an agent deserves your trust?
Start by reviewing their professional track record: their experience, the number of transactions closed, and whether clients readily recommend them. It is also worth visiting the agent's or their agency's website and verifying reviews published online. That gives a first picture of their reliability and way of working.
What if the agent serves both the seller and the buyer?
This does not always mean a conflict of interest — much depends on what agreements are in place and who engaged the agent first. If the agent works under an agreement with the seller, their duty is to look after the owner's interests within the scope agreed and in line with the Real Estate Management Act. It does happen, however, that an agent helps both sides because their needs meet — one party's property matches the other's expectations. In such cases the agent acts as a mediator, working out solutions satisfactory to both sides so the transaction is safe and feasible. In practice, though, the most common model is for each side to be represented by a different agent, which removes doubts and simplifies the process. Ultimately it is the agent's professional ethics and transparency that matter most.
Which formalities can an agent take off your plate?
The scope of duties depends largely on the type of property. With apartments the paperwork is relatively light, whereas with plots and land the complexity and risk grow — the required documentation is far more extensive.
A good agent should check all encumbrances and potential costs that may arise on the buyer's side. A professional combines the qualities of a negotiator, someone with legal knowledge, and someone who understands technical and geodetic matters. They should be able to assess the property's condition, point out potential risks, and — for plots — advise on matters such as subdivision or proper road access.
The agent's goal is to steer the process so that all parties arrive at the notary on the agreed date calm, confident in their decision, and fully prepared in terms of documentation. That way the closing goes smoothly and in a good atmosphere.
Can an agent act on our behalf before public offices?
Yes, provided we grant an appropriate power of attorney. Such a document can be built directly into the brokerage agreement or attached separately — for example as a notarised power of attorney if a higher-ranking document matters to us. The scope is up to us: we can define precisely in which matters and before which institutions the agent may represent us.
For how long should you sign with an agent?
The duration largely depends on the type of property being sold. Apartments usually turn over faster, as they answer basic life needs, so the average time to sell often falls within roughly three to six months. The overall timeline also depends on factors beyond the seller's and agent's control — tougher credit conditions, elevated interest rates, or periodic financing restrictions. All of this stretches purchase decisions and shrinks the pool of cash buyers, which naturally affects how quickly deals close.
With plots and land the process tends to be much longer and can take even a dozen or more months. Many factors play a role: sometimes the owner is in no hurry to sell; other times the asking price is too high against market realities and the agent has not managed to persuade the client to adjust it. Such listings usually need more time to find a buyer. Owners who genuinely care about a quick transaction more often price rationally — and attractive offers, as we know, sell fastest.
Whether you are planning to buy or to sell your property — trust professionals with the right education, knowledge and experience, who will work in your interest, because what they care about is a long-term, honest relationship.