OPINION: Ten questions to ask an estate agent

The following questions are necessary to ensure you are dealing with a professional and reliable estate agent:

1.    Is the agent a member of the Estate Agents Affairs Board (EAAB) and does he/she have a card to prove such?  Fidelity certificates of the firm as well as the agent must be displayed in the office. Do not do business with any unregistered agent or company, or a company using old/last year’s fidelity certificates. If anything in the deal or trust account goes wrong the EAAB will assist regulated members only.

2.    Has the agent obtained the latest Estate Agent’s NQF level 4 or 5?

3.    Where is the agent trading from – is the premise rented or do they own it? This is very telling in terms of the financial status of the company and company owner.

4.    What kind of marketing do they have in place? Find out where and how they advertise and whether they have their own website.

5.    Does the agent recommend a good conveyancer, electrician, bond originator and handyman to assist you?

6.    Does the agent understand your time and financial requirements? Do you feel confident in discussing your financial position with your agent; do you believe they will act with discretion?

7.    What information can they provide in terms of facilities like schools and community centres in the area?

8.    Request references. Ensure the agent offers a good service.

9.    Inquire about awards the company has won.

10.    Does the agent have reliable equipment, like a camera, business cards and “for sale” boards.

Adrienne Milner is the owner of Weltevreden Park-based real estate agents  A. Milner Reality.