Finding a home could be the single ‘most important’ decision of your life. There are so many factors that you would be considering before finally choosing ‘The Home’ or investing in ‘The Property’. Partnering with an expert ‘Realtor’ or ‘Real Estate Broker’ will be helpful through the process. An efficient Real Estate Broker takes time to understand the requirements of home seekers or investors, and helps them shortlist few projects that not only fit the budget, but also tick off every criterion on the home seeker’s checklist.
A good Real Estate Broker knows the ins and the outs of the market, especially a dynamic one like Dubai, and helps Home Seekers sign the best deal, taking away all their worries and anxieties. Partnering with an agent who is well-experienced and trustworthy goes a long way, so that you get the deserved value for every AED spent. To help you decide and narrow down on the professional you might want to approach, here are a few tips to keep in mind;
Check Authentic Credentials
Everyone who claims to be a broker, might not actually have an official license to practice? Before you decide to appoint someone, do a through research and ask for their RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) registration. RERA registration is mandatory for agents involved in the buying and selling of properties in the real estate market. Ask the broker for his full name & RERA license number, and get the details verified on Dubai Government’s website.
Ask for References Around
It’s a feasible option to approach someone who has already dealt with the broker in past and has good things to say about him. Some prefer Researching on the internet; however, you can’t always be sure if the reviews & ratings are genuine or not. Word-of-mouth reference from a friend or relatives, gives you the confidence of the levels of service efficiency and be assured of making a trustworthy decision.
Establish Communication
Make sure your broker speaks the same language as you do. He should also be available to talk to you whenever required and revert to emails on time. A smooth flowing communication is vital between the two parties. A responsible broker ensures his clients are kept informed about the progress of the house hunt and is equally approachable to answer queries. Set expectations for scheduling timely communication in the first place, so that there is no chance for ambiguity later.
Look for Friendliness and Core Values
A broker is not merely working towards a ‘property sale’, but to create long-lasting relations and personal connection with Home Seekers & Investors. The agent needs to be a friend and a guide, such that he can win the trust of his clients. Knowing the buyer’s family background, tastes, likings, and lifestyle patterns, will make the purchase process easier. You also need to ensure that the agent abides by strong morals & ethics and ensure transparency at all stages.
Good Networking
Through years of practice, the broker builds a good business network and knows exactly where to go, who to meet, and what to do next. Basically, he needs to be a matchmaker, by introducing buyers and sellers or developers together. Having strong connections and networking, also helps quickly process the ‘paperwork’ without much hassle to either parties involved.
Fix Broker’s Fees
When you are in the process of finalizing the broker, be clear as to what is his fee structure like and when does he expect the payment to be made. Mostly it works on commission basis, and the agent gets his dues after the home sale takes place. Check if there are any advances to be paid. There should also be no hidden cost or fees charged later, without your prior knowledge.
Enthusiasm and Involvement
There’s nothing more pleasing than having your ‘property agent’ invest a cent present in finding you a dream home. The idea is not merely closing a deal within the budget, but its more to do with suggesting the best luxury residency or encouraging the client to ‘pay a visit’ to a new project that doesn’t just meet the expectations of buyers, but exceeds them. The agent can be as creative as he wishes to and out-of-the-box ideas culminating into something extraordinary, is always welcome.
