Finding a good, trustworthy real estate agent is not that easy. The choice of real estate agent is crucial to the success of the real estate transaction. Whether you want to sell your condominium in Berlin or are looking for a suitable home for your family in Berlin and the surrounding area, your real estate agent will actively support you and guide you through the entire process.
In this article, you will find out what you should look out for when searching for the right real estate agent and which selection criteria will help you make your decision. We also explain the advantages of using an estate agent for your real estate business.
What types of real estate agents are there?
In principle, any real estate agent can accompany any form of real estate transaction. They can represent the interests of the buyer/tenant or seller/landlord. Nevertheless, there are real estate agents who specialize in a particular type of real estate transaction. They develop into experts who can provide their clients with an ideal service.
A distinction is often first made between residential and commercial properties. Particularly in the residential real estate sector, estate agents differ in the area they cover. Some focus on a specific region, a city or even a district. They can also specialize in one type of property. For example, some estate agents only handle real estate transactions involving the sale of land. Others concentrate on single-family homes or condominiums. There is also a distinction between rental transactions and sales.
What are the tasks of a real estate agent?
The estate agent can be commissioned by the seller or the buyer. When selling a property, the aim is to find the perfect buyer for a particular property. If, on the other hand, the commission comes from a buyer, the aim is to find the ideal property.
One of the main tasks of a real estate agent is to accompany the real estate transaction. The estate agent prepares the information about a property, creates an exposé and presents the property. They also provide advice and handle the transaction. They actively support the client at all times, gather information and handle bureaucratic processes. You can find out which tasks fall within the realtor’s area of activity in detail in our detailed article on the characteristics, tasks, activities and duties of the realtor.
That's why it makes sense to hire a real estate agent: The advantages at a glance
The tasks of a real estate agent are extensive. Local estate agents have an established client base and are very familiar with the market prices in the region. In addition to the advisory function, an estate agent also assumes the position of seller or buyer. He acts in the interests of his client and handles real estate transactions skillfully. Many people may wonder why they should involve a real estate agent in such a transaction.
However, there are many reasons why it makes a lot of sense to commission a broker.
Advantages for real estate sellers and landlords
The advantages of a real estate agent for the landlord or seller are extremely diverse. They can be summarized under the following criteria:
- Distance and neutrality in dealing with the property for sale or rent: There is no room for emotions when selling or renting a property. The seller of a property associates many fond, emotional memories with their property. For this reason, he cannot behave freely towards a prospective buyer. His argumentation is always inhibited by his personal attitude towards the property. A real estate agent, on the other hand, acts with the necessary distance and professionalism. He presents the property objectively and can argue freely in negotiations with potential tenants or buyers. As a result, a higher price is often achieved and the transaction can be completed without complications.
- Preliminary work and advice: The real estate agent has extensive know-how, which is based on numerous successfully completed real estate transactions. From the very first viewing, he invests sufficient time to professionally assess the property. He immediately recognizes whether the property has outstanding features or whether certain renovation work needs to be done, for example. He takes professional photos that show the property in its best light. The informative exposé attracts prospective buyers.
- Knowledge of the processes and significant time savings: Selling or letting a property involves a considerable amount of bureaucracy. The steps have to be carried out in a fixed sequence that a layperson would not know. The real estate agent has a very good knowledge of the processes so that no unnecessary delays are caused. The time saved is often accompanied by financial benefits.
- A solid customer base and proximity to the market: If you want to sell a property as a private individual, you are usually not very familiar with the regional market. What price can be achieved for the sale and where can potential buyers be found? Answering these questions is anything but easy for the layperson. A real estate agent, on the other hand, has an established customer base. He knows on which platforms he has to offer a property in order to reach serious potential buyers within a short period of time. They also know the regional market and are very good at assessing the value of a property.
Advantages for real estate buyers or tenants
If you are looking for a suitable property, you will quickly reach your limits as a private individual. Although there are numerous portals on the Internet today offering a wide variety of properties, it is often not possible to search individually. You can find out here what advantages there are as a tenant or buyer of a property if you commission a professional real estate agent to search for the perfect property:
- Price assessment: As a person looking for a property, a real estate agent offers you numerous guarantees. They can assess the condition of a property and its value based on its location. You can be sure that the price of a property is justified and that you are not falling for a scam.
- Property description: The estate agent is responsible for checking whether the information in the exposé is correct. Aircraft noise and other features that can have a negative impact on the quality of life in a property must not be concealed. The estate agent’s knowledge of building law and technical matters ensures that the plans and details of the property are correct. In addition, the estate agent will provide detailed information about the condition of the property and what renovation work may need to be carried out.
- Property and customer database: If you contact a real estate agent with your apartment search, they will present you with the properties in their portfolio. Of course, the properties must match your criteria. This efficient search can save you a lot of time. After all, the estate agent has already looked at the properties in his portfolio in detail. He has checked that the properties are in perfect condition and can therefore offer his clients very good guarantees.
- Market knowledge: When a move is imminent, many people are completely unfamiliar with the region in which they are looking for a suitable property. It is difficult for them to assess the state of the real estate market and the prices of the properties. The estate agent knows the regional housing market down to the smallest detail, which is why the search for a suitable property is quicker.
Why is it worth hiring a real estate agent, especially in Berlin?
The German capital and its surroundings are one of the most sought-after real estate markets in Germany. The search for a suitable property or the perfect buyer for a property is therefore complicated. Hiring a real estate agent therefore makes sense for several reasons:
Berlin is becoming increasingly important as a real estate location
Berlin is a metropolis that many people now only use superlatives to describe. This is also reflected in the real estate market. The inner city districts of the German capital are experiencing a steady upswing. At the same time, Berlin has a low property ownership rate. While purchasing power is increasing, Berlin is becoming more and more interesting for international and national investors.
Berlin real estate as an attractive investment
At the present time, it cannot be assumed that the Berlin real estate market will collapse. The location is just as interesting for private individuals as it is for investors. Small apartments represent a secure capital investment and are therefore particularly sought-after.
Favorable conditions in Berlin for owner-occupiers
Condominiums are particularly attractive due to the interest rate, which is low compared to other countries. As a result, buying a home today is a good alternative to renting for many years. More and more people are deciding to invest in their own apartment or house to provide for their retirement.
Real estate boom in Berlin continues
Living space in Berlin is generally in short supply. This contributes to apartments and houses being sold within a very short space of time. Prices have risen significantly. A real estate agent is an expert in this field and will help you to buy the right property at a reasonable price, even in such a highly sought-after market.
How to find a good real estate agent in Berlin - 11 criteria and tips for your search
Are you looking for an excellent estate agent in Berlin and the surrounding area? We’ll give you tips on how to recognize a professional estate agent and what criteria an estate agent should meet these days:
Criterion 1: Research on the Internet
An estate agent’s internet presence plays an important role nowadays. After all, real estate can reach a very wide audience on Internet platforms. The estate agent’s homepage already shows which real estate transactions the agent specializes in. With just a few clicks of the mouse, you can find out how much experience the estate agent has and view testimonials from other customers. The professional title of real estate agent is not protected in Germany. We therefore recommend that you always check professionalism.
2nd criterion: Don't make rash decisions, use time to think things over
The real estate business is often overwhelmed by emotions. However, emotions have no place when investing in a property or selling a property. For this reason, you should always take advantage of the time you are given to think things over. Check the facts of the deal and don’t let emotions get in the way. A good real estate agent will not pressure you into making hasty decisions, but will advise you to check all the information thoroughly and make your decisions carefully. The Berlin real estate market is a highly sought-after place. Nevertheless, purchase transactions should not be rushed.
3rd criterion: Reaction and interest of the real estate agent
A real estate agent is a service provider. He will accompany you in your search for a suitable buyer or support you in an investment transaction. That is why the first impression of the estate agent’s office and the estate agent himself is very important. When you call the office or make initial contact by e-mail, you should observe the agent’s reaction. A professional broker recognizes your needs and responds to your wishes.
Criterion 4: Market knowledge of the real estate agent
Good real estate agents with experience in real estate transactions know the regional real estate market very well. They should be familiar with current real estate prices and have an eye on market trends. His experience shows that he is familiar with the marketing of investments or has already helped many people find their perfect rental apartment. The agent should be able to answer your questions about the regional real estate market, usual prices and other factors in detail.
Criterion 5: References of the real estate agent
Don’t go for the first estate agent you come across on the Internet. Instead, ask for specific references and testimonials from other clients. A trustworthy estate agent is not afraid to reveal their work and give you an insight into their previous successes. A real estate agent’s references are therefore a decisive criterion in making the right choice.
Criterion 6: Membership of the real estate agent in professional associations
As already mentioned, the profession of real estate agent is not legally protected in Germany. You should therefore make sure that the real estate agent of your choice is a member of the German professional associations. In this way, you can quickly distinguish a reputable expert from a dubious estate agent.
There are several associations in Germany, including the German Real Estate Association (IVD).
Criterion 7: Insurance of the real estate agent
A qualified real estate agent usually has property damage liability insurance. After all, even an experienced expert can make mistakes. When talking to the estate agent, you should therefore ask whether they have such insurance and what happens to you in the event of a claim.
Criterion 8: Reliable real estate valuation
As a service provider, the real estate agent takes on numerous tasks and functions. They must provide their clients with perfect advice and support. This also includes determining the value of the property. Various methods are used for this. Ask your estate agent about their valuation procedures. He should be able to name these for you and explain them to you in detail.
Criterion 8: Reliable real estate valuation
As a service provider, the real estate agent takes on numerous tasks and functions. They must provide their clients with perfect advice and support. This also includes determining the value of the property. Various methods are used for this. Ask your estate agent about their valuation procedures. He should be able to name these for you and explain them to you in detail.
9th criterion: Exposees, marketing and self-presentation of the estate agent
The real estate agent also takes on the task of marketing in the real estate business. For this reason, you should check the agent’s appearance for their skills and reliability. Take a look at the exposés of other properties and assess their professional appearance. In addition to good photos and a structured layout, the content also plays a key role. How are the properties advertised? What impression do they give you?
Criterion 10: Transparent costs
The agent will accompany you in your real estate business and will always be at your side with his professional services. Of course, this service comes at a price. There is nothing wrong with this, after all, the estate agent invests a lot of time in marketing your property or searching for a suitable property.
However, it is important that the broker discloses the costs of their services transparently to you. There should be no hidden costs for you. You can find out what additional purchase costs you can expect for condominiums and other properties in our detailed overview.
11th criterion: Communication and trust in cooperation
You hand over the management of your real estate business to a professional estate agent. Some people want to sell the condominium they have lived in for many years and are very attached to. Others are looking for a rental apartment where they want to spend the next few years with their family. Still others are looking for a good investment property in Berlin or the surrounding area.
It doesn’t matter why you turn to a broker. In any case, your future depends to some extent on this business. That’s why you should always feel that the estate agent represents your interests alone and that you can trust their professionalism 100 percent. Communication should work both technically and in terms of content.
Conclusion: Hiring a reputable real estate agent is worthwhile
If you are not a true expert in real estate transactions yourself, then we strongly recommend hiring a professional real estate agent. The financial outlay is worth it, because you can rely on being advised and supported by an expert throughout the entire transaction process. The estate agent knows the bureaucratic process of such a transaction down to the smallest detail. In this way, you can avoid obstacles and successfully complete the real estate transaction in the shortest possible time.
The estate agent responds to your personal wishes and ideas. They will allay your concerns and support you in difficult situations. When you decide to hire a real estate agent, you put the nerve-wracking process of finding a suitable investment property or selling your home in the hands of an expert.
Get to know Vandenberg and our range of services better and make an appointment today for a non-binding initial consultation!
