Gokce,  Monday, 3 November 2014

 

Without doubt, the most important actors in property selection and buying process are the real estate agents. Once you decide on your intentions, you may find a real estate agency (a LEGAL ONE) that will find you what you want, where you want and at the price that you request. It may be a long journey with them, until you find what you are looking for. Sometimes they come up with surprise places which you would never want to reside, another they find you the perfect fit.

In choosing the perfect agency there are several important parameters. First, they should be legal, helpful and willing to serve your best interests. Since there is not an education institution to become a real estate agent, and since there are many of them due to people’s growing interest in Turkey and the increasing property numbers; you should select your agent carefully. Second, the agent must have a range of options among which you may find the one you are looking for. Do not waste your time with an agent who has no property to offer that suits your wishes, so it is always good to know what you want and need before going to the agency.

So what is your checklist should be for choosing a good real estate agent in Turkey?

The agent must be operating legally, so make sure that they are not fraudulent companies. Either you chose an agent in your home country or in Turkey, make sure they have good references and they are following the standards and laws carefully.
The agent must be one that offers a quality service. Having said that, you should be able to get your answers or briefing once you as a question. You should not be waiting for weeks to get an answer, which is not professional. A positive attitude and good customer service skills must be a criterion for you when choosing your agent.
Choose an agent that has a variety of property options in terms of property styles and locations. Whether you want an apartment or a villa, an estate by the water or in the city center, an agent with a rich portfolio will be able to fulfill your needs.
An agent with vast experience should be your other criterion. The most trustworthy and reliable agents are usually those with efficient experience. An experienced Real Estate Agent is aware of the legitimate rules and regulations, and has a tradition of following them for a long time. If you prefer, per their experience some of them also give advice on which you should choose as a lawyer for legal issues and resources for loan and mortgage options.
A good agent never leaves you in the middle of the buying process, so make sure they are with you until the last minute which the final contract is signed. Moreover, some Real estate Agents even help you further for adjusting yourself to living in Turkey. For instance, this includes helping you to open a bank account, finding a repair company, helping you with the procedures to follow for opening an internet service, telephone service and etc.

As a general advice, try to search the company’s name on the internet for post-buying feedback from other customers. If you read too many negative feedbacks, think twice. Choosing the Real Estate Agent is one of the most important phases of the buying process, so do not be afraid to question them. You may visit their offices, check for certificates, and ask for recent sales contracts they made for foreigners and their research process.

Another important issue is the commission you are going to give to the Real Estate Agency. The buyer’s commission is usually around 3% of the purchase price in Turkey. The seller also pays a certain amount of commission to the Agency.

When your agent takes you for a trip to the requested properties, ask your questions and tell your concerns. If you manage to narrow options, there comes the negotiation part. Your agent will give you an offer, but keep in mind that they are usually motivated to give a higher price than normal, since they will get a higher commission from the sales. Don’t be afraid to negotiate and make a better offer.

Finding a good and reliable Real Estate Agent may not always be easy, but it is the most important resource you will have once you decide to buy a house in Turkey. Choose your agent wisely, which will guide you through the whole process, offer a good amount of properties for your selection and satisfies you with its customer service.