SOLE MANDATE:
PROS:
• One agent controls all the buyers getting them to compete for price, rather than the agents competing with one another to bring any offer to secure the sale.
• Sellers only deal with one company/ agent organising viewings rather than multiple parties requesting access continually making the selling process more controlled.
• If one agent is receiving all the enquiries they can bunch viewing times back-to-back rather than multiple agents requesting access at different time slots.
• Streamlined communication with one company making it easier for sellers to stay updated on progress with securing an offer.
• Buyers see it is only listed with 1 agent making it an exclusive listing.
• Stronger marketing commitment from agency as they are motivated to invest time and resources into marketing a sole mandate.
• Reduced risk of market over exposure.
• Overall sole mandate results in a more efficient and controlled sales process, potentially leading to a faster sale and better price.
CONS:
• Appointed sole agent doesn't do a good job and sellers are locked into a mandate duration with no forward movement – make sure to choose an agent with a strong track record, buyer database, good reputation and ethics.
• Longer sale period if unsuccessful - what leads to success is pricing property correctly.
• Reduced flexibility for sellers if they are unhappy with agent’s performance – choose an agent with a willingness to be flexible in approach.
DUAL MANDATE:
PROS:
• Perception that the sellers have access to a wider range of purchasers.
• Competitive motivation - agents can push each other to work harder to get the sale.
• Diversified marketing approaches - your property may benefit from varied promotional efforts.
CONS:
• Agents compete to get the sale over the line rather than getting the best price for the seller.
• Sellers have to deal with multiple people messaging for access, viewing at different times and conflicting feedback making the process disorganised and uncontrollable.
• Agents may be less motivated to invest budget for marketing.