Absolutely! Meeting two or three Realtors can help you understand different approaches to pricing, preparation, marketing and communication.
However, choosing a Realtor shouldn't necessarily be about finding the person who promises the highest selling price or quotes the lowest commission. Compare the strategy behind the presentation; a Realtor should be able to explain why they are recommending a particular approach and support that recommendation with relevant market information.
No. It can be tempting to choose the Realtor who suggests the highest listing price, but a property's market value doesn't change based on which Realtor you hire. Ask each Realtor to explain their Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). A recommended listing price should be part of a broader pricing strategy not simply a number designed to win your business.
Commission is an important question, but it is only one part of the decision. Instead of comparing commission percentages alone, ask what is included in the service. Depending on the property and agreed marketing strategy, services may include professional photography, video, floor plans, staging consultation, digital advertising, property brochures, signage, open houses and other marketing initiatives.
You should also understand how the commission is structured, what services are included and how cooperating brokerage compensation will be handled. Refer to Jacky's
guide to real estate Commission in B.C to further understand the fee structure.
The objective isn't necessarily to find the cheapest Realtor. It is to determine which combination of strategy, experience, service, marketing and cost makes sense for you.
Before signing a listing agreement, ask to see the proposed marketing strategy for your home.
A Realtor’s marketing plan is important because listing a home is not the same as effectively marketing it. A strong Vancouver Realtor should have a clear strategy for how your property will be presented, positioned and promoted to potential buyers. Professional photography, video, digital exposure, MLS® presentation, open houses and targeted marketing can all contribute, but the real value is having a plan designed around your home and its likely buyer. When choosing a recommended Realtor to sell your Vancouver home, ask to see the marketing strategy, not just a list of services.
- Professional photography
- Floor plans
- Video
- Drone photography or video where appropriate
- Property brochures
- Digital marketing
- Social media exposure
- MLS® presentation
- Brokerage marketing channels
- Open houses
- Realtor-to-Realtor promotion
Marketing should reflect the individual property rather than applying exactly the same formula to every listing.
Local knowledge can certainly be valuable, but it shouldn't be the only qualification you consider.
A Realtor familiar with your area may understand neighbourhood characteristics, schools, transportation, development, amenities, buyer expectations and recent sales. However, Vancouver buyers frequently search across neighbourhood boundaries. A seller may therefore want to consider both local market knowledge and broader Vancouver real estate experience.
Ask the Realtor to demonstrate that they understand your specific property, its likely buyers and the competing alternatives those buyers may consider.
Your relationship with your individual Realtor is extremely important, but the brokerage can also contribute resources, marketing opportunities, technology, brand exposure and professional support.
Ask how the Realtor's brokerage will contribute to the marketing of your property.
For certain properties, regional, national or international exposure may also form part of the overall strategy.
The important question is not simply which logo appears on the sign.
It is how the Realtor and brokerage intend to use their available resources to benefit your sale.
Sotheby’s International Realty is a globally recognized real estate brand with a network that extends across Canada and international markets. For Vancouver home sellers, working with a Realtor affiliated with
Sotheby’s International Realty Canada provides access to a sophisticated marketing platform and a network designed to showcase properties to buyers locally, nationally and internationally.
Importantly, Sotheby’s is not only about luxury-priced homes.
Luxury can also describe the quality of service, presentation and attention to detail a seller receives. Whether you are selling a Vancouver condominium, a family home or an exceptional luxury property, the goal is the same: present the property professionally and position it effectively in the marketplace.
Working with Sotheby’s International Realty Canada can combine local Vancouver market knowledge and personal representation with the resources of an established international real estate network. Sellers may benefit from professional property presentation, extensive digital exposure, established marketing channels, global brand recognition and connections with real estate professionals and potential buyers beyond the local market.
