Why is choosing the right estate agent so important when buying abroad?
For those in search of a bolt hole in the sun, or a new life abroad, finding the perfect property is the dream. But doing so in a different country is a whole new ball game, and it’s easy to see why most people are wary – or even bamboozled.
The key to finding the right property is almost always about finding the right agent to help you.
Forget comparing the role of estate agents with those in the UK. An estate agent overseas will do a lot more than the average UK estate agent selling to a British buyer. You will be putting a lot of trust in their hands – and quite possibly your life savings.
The buying process will be unfamiliar, and you may not speak the language, so a certain amount of handholding is essential.
Whilst it might involve driving you around an area and showing you properties, it will also involve answering all your questions about the buying process, costs and even where the best local restaurant is.
How to find the right agent
Because you are putting a lot of faith in the agent, it is key that you find one you can trust.
Choose one that knows the area and is also familiar with dealing with British buyers. This might be an agent who is based locally or one from a company with offices across different regions.
Coming to an event such as A Place in the Sun Live to meet agents face to face is really the perfect way to start your search. Nothing beats an in-person meeting to see if you can build a rapport. Trust your gut.
Identify agents by looking at who is selling the type of property you wish to buy. You can do this by browsing the property listings on aplaceinthesun.com or by using our Find an Estate Agent directory to explore agents by country, region or location.
Getting recommendations from previous buyers is also useful if you can find them. You can pick up ideas by reading about the agents used by happy buyers in our articles section.
But also trust your instincts, just as you would when choosing a lawyer or another professional service.
How are you treated when you first contact someone? Are they willing to spend time listening to what you want? Are they really listening to you? Or are they just trying to sell you something specific?
You should feel able to ask them about anything. Nothing should be too much trouble for an agent helping you through the buying process. If they don’t return your calls or emails, then maybe that’s a bad sign.
Will you book a viewing trip? This can be the next step in getting to know the agent – and finding a property. But know what to expect and give the agent a good brief.
Questions to ask your agent
- What fees and taxes will I be expected to pay, and when?
- What is refundable if I change my mind?
- What happens if the vendor decides not to sell?
- How long has the property been on the market?
- Have there been any previous offers on it?
- Is there scope to negotiate?
- What are the running costs, community fees or homeowners’ association fees on a resort property?
- Are there any rules about what owners can and can’t do?
- Is the property legal?
- Does it have any planning issues?
- Are any extensions or additions legal?
- What alterations might I be able to make in the future?
- What exactly is included in the property sale?
- Am I allowed to rent out the property as a holiday let if I want to?
(Get your lawyer to verify this too if it’s important to you, as the rules can change.)
Find your perfect overseas property
Whether you’re looking for a holiday apartment, a retirement villa or a permanent move abroad, finding the right estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
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