HOW TO:CHOOSE YOUR AGENT

Choosing the right estate agent to work with is important for both sellers and buyers. It is possibly the most important decision to make at the outset of the process in selling or buying property, which is for most people the largest asset that they are likely to have in their lives. Estate Agents in South Africa are highly regulated, and professionalized, compared to many other countries. Legitimate agents should be registered with the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA), and be the holder of a valid, current Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC), which is effectively their 'licence' to operate as an agent in South Africa. You can check if an Agent or Agency has a valid FFC by going to: https://theppra.org.za/

There are still some 'agents' operating in South Africa that are not registered with the PPRA. Using the 'services' of an unregistered 'agent' comes with risks, including scams, loss of monies, fraud, with no recourse to the PPRA should things go wrong. So, always ensure you are utilizing the services of a registered, professional agent. It's a crucial starting point.

If you are looking for an agent for the first time, or in an area that you're not familiar with, then look up their google reviews from clients. This will immediately give you a good indication of their reputation - good or otherwise. Steer clear of an agent that has mostly negative client reviews. Choosing an agent by recommendation, or referral, from family, friends or associates is another sound way to start the process. The client/ agent relationship is often one that can last a lifetime, and numerous property purchases and sales, of your home, or investment properties. So it's important to see the relationship as a working partnership, with someone that you can trust, that knows and understands your property needs and requirements well.

Working with one agent that you like and are comfortable with also has the advantage of streamlining the process of buying property, and making it as stress free as possible. It means that you do not have to deal with multiple agents to look for your ideal property. A good, established agent, will be well connected in the property sector and know numerous colleagues in their network that they can approach on your behalf for suitable properties. Your agent can represent you as a 'buyers agent', and source properties for you to consider, shortlist, and then view. They will do all the 'leg work' for you, saving you time, and stress. This means that you have a single point of contact throughout the entire process from start to finish, and beyond. Someone that is representing you, working on your behalf and available to speak to seven days a week.

If you choose your agent carefully you are very likely to have a positive experience of property investment and be happy with the results.