When it comes to choosing your estate agent here on the Costa del Sol, there are many things to consider.
With many companies to choose from and Google searches bringing up endless results, it can feel a little daunting as to where to begin.
Here are some of our top tips on how to choose the Estate Agent that's right for you:
Who are they?
In an area where many decide to become an estate agent overnight, it is important you look into who the people behind the logo really are.
Firstly, how long have they been in the industry, and how long have they been based here in Spain?
The next thing to be looking out for in who the estate agency are is, what kind of properties do they deal with? Do they work with every area on the coast, or do they work in more concentrated areas that match your search?
Finally, who within the company will you be in contact with? Is the estate agency you're looking at, a small team working under one roof, or are they a branch of a larger company where you may receive a less personal service?
What do they know?
This may seem like an obvious one, but what level of knowledge do they have on both the industry and the local area?
An estate agent that knows the local area can help guide you to what areas will work best for you, what may be within your price range, what may be worth investment and what to avoid.
Where are they based?
Where is your chosen estate agent based? Are they in an established area? If they have a physical office, is this open for you to walk in as and when you may need to? If they are based online, do you have assurances that they are easily contactable?
These questions may seem obvious, but when making a purchase or sale of a home, it is important that you can reach and liase with your estate agent easily.
When can you expect to hear back?
I think this is probably one of the most frustating aspects of Real Estate - You see a property you love online, you fill out the contact form and nothing - No reply. Do you have an estate agent that knows your search criteria? Are they actively looking for new properties that may work for you and your budget? Have you already established times and days that you are available for viewings that may be interest?
Why them?
Sometimes there's no explanation on this one. Sometimes, as a client you meet an agent on a viewing and just click. They understand what things you like and dislike, you get along well and from there on out you work closely together in finding or selling a property.
If this is not the case, then some points to consider is - Why are these/this person in the industry? Is this a natural passion for them? Do they actually enjoy helping you as a client?
Finally, what diversity can this agency offer for selling or buying a property in Spain - Do they cover different languages, different cultures, different outlets and different lead generation?
