What is the role of a Belize real estate agent during a home buying transaction? The primary role of a Belize real estate agent when working with buyers is a simple one. Your agent’s primary obligation is to help you find a home that fits your needs, and to help facilitate the purchase.
The Duties Performed
The roles and duties performed may also vary depending on the agent and/or the transaction. Some consider themselves selling agents, concentrating their efforts on assisting home sellers. Others consider themselves buying agents and focus their efforts on helping buyers primarily. The majority of real estate professionals assist both buyers and sellers (though usually not within the same transaction).
In the early stages of buying a property, the agent plays an important and priceless role. This person will (or should) serve as your guide in the quest to find a home, condo or investment property. This is super important as most are new to buying in a foreign country. Or in some cases a buyer might be unfamiliar with the different areas of Belize. Your Agent should listen to your needs and ask questions in order to determine what is the right kind of property for you, and what area would be the best fit for your needs.
Based on your desires, your agent should be able to compile a list of potential properties that may suit you. Perhaps even making suggestions to help you make the best and most profitable investment. Having a list of suggested properties will point you in the right direction when you start the property hunting process. Once you find the property you are interested in buying, your agent will then help negotiate the deal between you and the seller. An experienced agent who is in tune with the market will make sure that you get the best price possible.
The Process Continues
Your agent should also keep the communication flowing and the closing process moving. This will be done through follow-up phone calls and emails, keeping tabs on paperwork, etc. He or she should keep you updated on a regular basis, and should keep an open line of communication with you.
During the pre-closing inspection, your agent will likely be the one to find any issues that need to be addressed, such as scheduled repairs that were never made. Most buyers can’t be present for this process so having someone you trust is very important.
Your agent may also play an active role in the closing / settlement, or they may not be involved much at all. Either way, it’s helpful to have a professional on hand who is familiar with the transaction from start to finish, just in case additional information or negotiations are needed.
The role of the buyer’s real estate agent is an important one. For this reason, it’s important that you meet with prospective representatives and choose one you are comfortable with. You should be equally confident in their professional abilities and their communication skills. After all, the person you choose will be your direct representative through the entire home buying process.
Contact one of our agents if you would like more information.