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Published:
July 25, 2024

How to Find the Right Realtor for You: A Buyer’s Guide

The Nigerian real estate market is boisterous, thriving, and full of opportunities for homebuyers. Whether you are a first-time buyer or buying for investment, the right realtor would make all the difference in your experience. Let's help you get a trusted realtor here in Nigeria.

The Nigerian real estate market is boisterous, thriving, and full of opportunities for homebuyers. Whether you are a first-time buyer or buying for investment, the right realtor would make all the difference in your experience. Let's help you get a trusted realtor here in Nigeria.

Understanding a Realtor's Role

A realtor is a certified individual who guides clients in buying, selling, and letting property. Unlike the general real estate agent, the realtor strictly observes the code of ethics for the profession and mostly belongs to the professional association of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers.

The best real estate agents in Nigeria bring invaluable experience into the real estate market by sharing knowledge on property values, market trends, and how one goes about the negotiation process. Their deep understanding of the real estate industry greatly assists clients in making informed decisions to ensure that deals go through smoothly and are ultimately completed.

Key Qualities to Look for in a Realtor

Any real estate transaction requires the right realtor. Here are key qualities one should look for:

Local Market Knowledge

 A knowledgeable realtor understands the nuances of the local real estate market: property values, neighbourhood trends, and upcoming developments.

Effective Communication

Keeping you updated with the process is very necessary. Good listening by a real estate agent keeps you updated in time with all your needs.

Ability in Negotiation

Any real estate agent with negotiation skills will secure better deals and terms in all transactions. Look for one who will have your interests at heart and navigate complex negotiations.

Professionalism and Reliability

Look for one with high integrity, professionalism, and ethics. The credibility of the real estate agent would not have a timeline characterized by late-coming, breaking of promises, or irregular support.

Responsiveness

An agent who responds to your queries and problems and does business efficiently and effectively would have no hiccups in transactions.

Now, with a realtor who has these qualities, the process of property search or sale is easier and more successful. Land Republic, one of the top real estate companies in Nigeria, has these qualities.

Watch for These Red Flags

Be wary of these red flags when choosing a real estate agent:

Lack of Transparency

Avoid at all costs evasive agents 

High Pressure Tactics

Steer clear of those agents who appear too pushy in deciding on hard sales.

Unrealistic Promises

 Be wary of any promises that sound too good to be true, as more often than not, they are.

Assessing and Comparing Realtors 

Set up a meeting with several realtors for assessment and evaluation. During this period, learn if they understand your needs and the type of strategies they offer you in finding the right property. Pay more attention to general demeanor and communication skills. In the long run, it should be a matter of instincts, you should settle and work comfortably with a realtor.

Besides, ask them for references from previous clients to know the track record associated with them. Confirm their credentials from professional associations like the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers to check if they are in good repute. Following these steps, you can certainly be led to the best realtor in Nigeria who will better guide you in the real estate market.

Questions to Ask Realtors

Before you make any decision, you are going to have to interview several realtors. You can ask questions such as:

  • How long have you been practicing in the Nigerian real estate market?

  • Am I dealing with someone familiar with the area or neighbourhood I'm interested in?

  • What are some of the ways you find properties that fit my criteria?

  • Can you explain your fee structure and other associated costs?

Making Your Decision

Consider the pros and the cons for each realtor - their experience, strategies, and how well they meet your needs. Also, consider their record in the real estate market and responsiveness to your many questions. 

Assess their knowledge about the local market and how they would try to find properties that best fit your criteria. Once your decision has been made, finalize the offer by signing off on the agreement. It will establish your partnership and pave the way for a smooth home-buying process by ensuring parties clearly understand expectations and responsibilities.

Work Effectively with Your Chosen Realtor

Follow these steps to work smoothly in Nigeria with your realtor:

  • Set Your Expectations: Clearly define your goals and expectations at the commencement of the relationship. This aids the real estate agent in understanding the needs and aligning his efforts towards the same.

  • Regularly Keep in Touch: Regular contact will keep you updated regarding the progress of your property search. It also provides an opportunity for any concerns to be addressed quickly.

  • Stay Involved: Stay active in the search and other decision-making processes. Attend viewings, ask questions, and provide input so that your wishes are known, and your likes and dislikes considered.

  • Feedback: Be ready to give constructive feedback and promptly identify troubles. This will help the realtor adjust his approach towards serving you better.

By keeping to the above rules, you will have a pleasant relationship with your real estate agent. The result will be that you will successfully purchase property in the Nigerian real estate market.

Researching Realtors in Nigeria

The best realtors in Nigeria can be found on the Internet. Sites such as PropertyPro.ng, and social media websites, have extensive lists of real estate agents and their reviews, giving insight into their reputation and success rate. Professional associations like the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, also offer directories of certified realtors; their professionalism is, therefore, guaranteed.

Check the testimonials and ratings of the clients to understand the reliability and performance of the agent. You may also check the online websites of leading real estate companies such as Land Republic, one of the top 50 real estate companies in Nigeria. This company is fully accredited for its trustworthy and highly professional services. The research and comparison of services will help you know who the best and most professional realtors in the real estate market of Nigeria are.

Conclusion

The process of buying a house begins with selecting the appropriate realtor. Find a suitable real estate agent to take you through the often entangled Nigerian market. This can be achieved with due research, analysis of the candidate, and following your instincts. With the right partner, like Land Republic—the top real estate company in Nigeria—finding the perfect home just got easier.

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