Did you know that buyers from all corners of the world purchase real estate in the U.S. each year?
International buyers have pulled market demand forward and have impacted the real estate market as we know it. Learn more about real estate property here.
If you have plans of selling or buying a property abroad, you’ll need the assistance of an international real estate agent. But how do you pick the right agent for your needs? Keep reading for the inside scoop on the pros and cons of hiring a bilingual agent for your international real estate needs!
Meet Several Agents
There’s no shortage of international real estate agents to choose from when you’re looking to buy or sell a property. However, not all agents are created equal and finding the right one is critical to a successful transaction.
It is important to interview several agents. Ask each agent about their experience, credentials, and knowledge of the area you are looking to buy or sell. Once you have found an agent you are comfortable with, be sure to ask about their fees and commission structure.
Ask a Lot of Questions
Find out how long the agent has been in business, what countries they specialize in, and how many transactions they have completed.
Make sure to ask if they can also help you search and view real estate properties for sale. It is also beneficial to get a feel for the agent’s personality and whether they are a good fit for you. The best agent will be someone who is knowledgeable, experienced, and trustworthy.
Check Their Credentials
Be sure to check their licenses and certifications. These agents should be licensed by the National Association of Realtors and have a Certified International Property Specialist designation.
You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints against the agent. Confirm that they are legally qualified to act on your behalf in a real estate transaction.
Referrals, References, and Reviews
When looking for an international realtor, be sure to check their referrals and references. A good agent will have a long list of happy clients who are willing to vouch for their services. You should also check online reviews to get a sense of what others have experienced working with the agent.
Also, you should ask for referrals from friends or family who have recently bought or sold property internationally. They can give you first-hand accounts of their experience with a particular agent and whether or not they would recommend them.
Find the Right International Real Estate Agent for You
The best international realtor for you is one who will take the time to understand your unique needs and desires. They should be knowledgeable about the local and international market and be able to provide you with a list of properties that match your criteria.
They should also be able to provide guidance and advice throughout the selling or purchasing process. Trust your gut. At the end of the day, you need to work with someone you feel comfortable with and who you feel you can trust.
Did this article help you? If so, take a look at some of our other blog posts for more informative reads.
