Buying or selling real estate in India? 6 Questions you must ask your agent or broker

Whether you are buying or selling real estate in India, the best way to choose an agent may not be by checking out classifieds and yellow pages. Its like choosing a heart surgeon by doing an internet search. Its your property that is under consideration here. We recommend you meet at least three agents from three different agencies/ broker firms and ask them the same questions so that you know exactly how to compare them and make your choice.

1) Do you work full time in real estate? You are better off with a full time agent who can give you local insights, market trend information, home loan and other services at one point. A part time agent will not have the bandwidth to take care of your needs and there may be issues with him being able to service you.

2) How long have you been in the real estate business? Real estate brokers in India are dime a dozen and many have started and quit, owing to intense competition and lack of customers. A good broker is one who has been in the business for long and has closed deals for years.

3) How many homes have you sold in the past three months? And in which localities were they?

4) What is the price bracket in which you work? Remember to choose an agent or broker who works in your desired price range. There are much better chances of you closing a deal with such an agent.

5) Can you give me the names and numbers of a few of your customers? Once you get that list, make the calls!

6) How often will I hear from you and what will be the mode of communication?

Remember that a real estate transaction will involve a large amount of payout when it comes to the brokerage. If its just a small, lame job that your agent does, he does not deserve it. Choose an agent who has the capability to service you, close the best deal for you and earn that brokerage.