Property Consultants on the Costa Blanca

Home Finders - a new concept for the Costa Blanca?

The way property has been bought and sold in the Mediterranean part of Spain has been much criticised. Too many “agents” have in the past come out of the woodwork and jumped on the bandwagon. Now, around 50% have fallen off by the wayside due to the downturn in the market.

The excessive profits made by developers on new properties have allowed massive incentives to estate agents. Sell, sell, sell has been the cry and most employees of these companies, including the large well known ones have been paid on commission only. “You won’t need a solicitor, some of them say; we do it all for you.” “Do” sometimes having a different meaning.

Commissions of up to 20% have been paid to agents and commonly around 5% for re-sale properties. So why do you think that agents push the new developments first?

A Better Way

In the UK, it is becoming common to use a “Home Finder,” or a Relocation Agent. In this part of the world, these are less common, particularly those who are properly registered, qualified and have proper indemnity insurance. Why indemnity insurance? In Spain there are more pitfalls to be avoided, and they can be, if proper professionals are utilised. Home Finders need to do more research and be more aware of the problems associated with the Spanish system. By being a member of a recognised association and having experience and indemnity insurance, a company should be working in an ethical way and have the safeguards in place, in order to protect its clients.

The ARP or Association of Relocation Professionals based in the UK has lists of members who meet these requirements, both in the UK and abroad. They have useful information for prospective buyers and this can be found on their website. To find an ARP member on the Costa Blanca click: ARP Member

In addition to finding you your ideal home at the best price, a home finder in Spain should be able to save you a great deal of time, whilst guiding you through the buying process, looking after your interests and keeping you constantly informed. The only way this can happen in a totally independent way, is on a fee basis. Home search companies should never take commissions from any source and those that do, can not be truly independent. Home search companies should WORK FOR YOU.

4 Questions you should ask!

Is the relocation company registered either in the UK or Spain?

Do they have indemnity insurance?

Do they belong a recognised association?

Do they take commissions from third parties?

Tags: Costa Blanca property for sale, home finders, investment property Spain advisors, property consultants, villas