We’ve written about this theme before, but it’s worth reviewing, since – as we always say – it’s the first important step in a successful real estate search in Mexico. The question:
“I’ve sort of started working with an agent because he was advertising a property I like. How do I know if he’s the right agent?â€
First of all, let’s just look at what the best way is to go about this from the beginning.
1. Put the horse before cart
From the beginning, you should start off on the right foot by first finding the right, professional real estate broker in Mexico, who will then guide you through the search and purchase processes. Taking the time to find the right agent will in all likelihood save you time and money down the road, as well as increase the possibility of finding that perfect property at the right price. But, if you’ve already started backwards, this first point doesn’t help much …
2. Qualification
Whether you’re starting off your search for the right agent first, or you’ve already ended up working with an agent “by default†or without having given it much thought, there are points you can ask about. The first is a very concrete item; qualifications. Your agent, or the broker he works with, should have certificates, courses and perhaps even a degree in Mexico real estate. The broker should be a member of AMPI, the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals.
3. Experience
How many years of experience does the broker have? Every real estate transaction is slightly different, and qualifications and official knowledge are best “seasoned†– i.e. by dozens upon dozens of real transactions.
Of course, be sure to ask about experience in transactions similar to what you need! If you’re looking for a condo to retire in, ask them how many expat retirees they’ve sold to.
4. The right feeling 
While “a good feeling†isn’t reliable just by itself, having the right gut feeling about the people you are working with is important after all other items are also in place. If everything looks good on an official level, but something doesn’t feel quite right, you’ll probably be better off looking elsewhere. On the other, you feel good about the team, they have all the qualifications – well, then go for it!
5. Don’t hesitate to ask
Finally, even if you’ve found yourself somehow “committed†(whether you’ve actually agreed to such an arrangement or not) to a certain agency without checking, don’t be afraid to ask! While there are no legal obligations in most of Mexico (yet), it is their simple responsibility to demonstrate to you that they are best suited to serve your needs.
Again, I can’t emphasize this enough; taking the time to find the right agent is key to starting a successful real estate search and purchase on the right foot!
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Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 16 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the president of Top Mexico Real Estate. Contact him at (512) 879-6546.
The TOP Mexico Real Estate Network; “Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!â€
