Not all real estate agents are the same. If you decide to seek the help of an agent when buying your home or property, you need some good information before you make any moves.
Choosing a real estate agent is one of those critical issues that can cost or save you thousands of dollars. Coldwell Banker Riveras would like to give you the specific questions you should be asking to ensure that you get the best representation for your needs.
1. Do you work full or part-time as a real estate agent? Full-time agents will give you (and other potential home buyers) more time and attention
2. What will you do for me? This question is the crux of the interview. The agent you hire should demonstrate what actions he or she will take to help you reach your goals. Expect answers touting communication and negotiation skills, personal commitment, and access to resources.
3. What plan do you have to find a home for me? Buyers should expect their agents to have a plan to help them find the right house. Expect the agent to have access to objective information about each property, professionals to help with escrow, inspections, and documentation.
4. Do you have the time to devote to my needs? Many real estate agents will promote the number of sales they’ve had or how many buyers they are currently working with, but does the agent have the time to devote to your needs? If the agent is working with several buyers or has lots of listings, make sure you’re comfortable with the time they’ll have for you. If they’ve had few listings or sales, ask them how their lack of experience can be overcome. If you tell them what you need, most agents are willing to do what it takes to get the job done.
5. How often will you communicate with me? The success of your transaction depends on regular communication. You should agree to the frequency of contacts: contact is vital, even when nothing is happening! And, insist on communicating with the agent, not just with the agent’s assistant.
6. What happens when you are not available? Agents work extremely long hours and try to be available whenever and wherever you need them. But however accommodating they try to be, they are not always available. Ask your prospective real estate agents what arrangements they have in place when they are not available.
7. What type of training or education do you have in real estate? Most successful real estate agents devote time to continuing education. The educated practitioner will know more about the laws and practices affecting your transaction. Commitment to education also indicates a higher degree of professionalism.
8. Can you explain me how “real estate” works here in Mexico? As a Buyer, you need to understand the process so there won’t be any surprises. How offers are presented and negotiated, what happens during escrow, which inspections are recommended, what estimated costs will be, what proper documentation is required, the period of time required and how to address any potential snag that could arise. If you and your agent are aware of what could happen, problems will more likely be avoided.
9. Why should I work with just one agent? If you don’t have an exclusive agency agreement with your sales agent, you’re not legally obligated to work only with him to find your next home. However, choosing one agent to work with could be greatly beneficial to you for many reasons; first and foremost because the exchange of information from one source versus many sources will be more reliable, less confusing and eventually, a relationship between you and your representative will form a base for trust and understanding of your needs and desires.
10. What makes your real estate service special? Every agent tries hard to give top-notch service, but what distinguishes a really good one from the rest? Ask them. You may be surprised at what they have to say and, just as importantly, how they say it.
Next steps
When the interviews are over, it’s time to make a choice. Think about what the real estate agent told you, and ask yourself some questions:
• Did they seem trustworthy and honest?
• Were they realistic when discussing your home purchase?
• Did they communicate well? Were you on the same page?
• Were they committed, motivated and experienced?
For more information about Coldwell Banker Riveras’ s real estate services and Baja California Sur news, call us to + 52 (624) 143.1342 or send us an email to info@cbriveras.com
