Questions to ask the real estate agent when buying
The search for one's dream home can be an exciting but also challenging experience. To simplify the process and find the right home, it can be helpful to work with an estate agent. However, to get the most out of your collaboration with the real estate agent, it is important to ask the right questions. Here are some questions you should ask
1. What properties are available in my budget?
The real estate agent should be able to provide you with a list of available properties within your budget, taking into account factors such as location, size and features of the house.
2. What are the taxes and fees?
Receiving an estimate of purchase fees and expenses, including notary fees, registration fees, commissions and tax charges gives you a clear picture of all the expenses you will have to incur to purchase your home. Without surprises.
3. What are the most important features of the properties you propose?
The agent should be able to identify and promote the most important features of the properties he or she offers, such as location, size, finishes and amenities, to help you find the right home.
4. What are maintenance and renovation costs?
Especially in the case of real estate in need of renovation, it may be useful to ask the agent to provide you with an estimate of maintenance and renovation costs, if necessary, to help you assess the overall cost of buying the house.
5. What financing options are available?
The real estate agent is often in contact with credit brokers who can research for you the offer that best meets your needs and profile. They will then be able to provide you with information on the financing options available, including fixed and variable rate mortgages, to help you find the best solution for you.
6. What are the conditions of the local property market?
We, as agents, should be able to provide you with information on local property market conditions, such as property prices, sales times and market demand, to help you make an informed choice with maximum transparency. This way you, the homebuyer, will know the prices currently charged and be able to compare them with your budget. Should there be a gap between the price and your purchasing power, the agent will be able to point you towards viable alternatives.
7. What steps are necessary to complete the purchase?
The buying process is a real journey in which the agent will guide you through the steps necessary to complete the purchase, including documentation, negotiations and closing management.
8. Are there mortgages, extraordinary or condominium expenses on the property?
This is a very important question and one that can determine the success of the purchase transaction. Knowing the presence of mortgages on the property is a very important aspect that can sometimes block the purchase.
9. Are there any previous purchase proposals rejected by the owner?
It is a very simple and straightforward question, but relevant to understand there is room for negotiation on price and how far we can go.
10. Does the property have a certificate of urban conformity?
It is important to ensure that the property is in order before signing a purchase proposal. If the property has irregularities, it is necessary to check whether or not they can be remedied.
In summary, asking the right questions of the real estate agent can be crucial to finding the right home and completing the purchase successfully. With the right answers, you can make informed and guided decisions and find your dream home!