Finding the Right Real Estate Agent

Trying to find a new home in China can be frustrating. Property agents work differently than in the West. Having worked in the expatriate property agency industry for many years and being an expat myself, I thought I would to try to help people understand what goes on inside the industry and what they can do to make their move to China a lot smoother and more enjoyable. So, if you are a bit bewildered by the choice of agents, here is some advice for you that I hope helps. You can also view rental listings on our website by clicking HOUSING in the main menu.

AGENCIES
Real estate agents are a new concept in modern China. Property used to provided by the government until just over ten years ago so the real estate industry is new with limited enforceable regulations and virtually no one to turn to if the deal goes wrong. A reliable and trustworthy agent with your interests at heart will not only help you easily find the right home but provide added protection should things go wrong

Expat Agents VS Local Agents
If I were asked the biggest difference between a local agency and an expat agency it is that the local agent prefers quantity over quality and will typically show the client many, many properties irrespective of whether they suit the client’s requirements. An experienced expat agent on the other hand will spend more time researching the properties and only select ones that match their client’s criteria thus ensuring you find the right home faster and with less hassle. Also, during the negotiating process, the local agent tends to just translate what the landlord says rather than providing creative problem solving solutions to getting the best deal for their client.

Agency referral
Ensure that you get a referral before using an agent. Many agents are inexperienced and do not fully understand the housing needs of foreigners. Sadly, the whole experience can end up very time consuming, frustrating and disappointing and you could end up paying a lot more than you should.

Agency choice
You are free to choose as many agents as you want but it is worthwhile letting agents know of any properties you have seen so they don’t show you a property another agent has shown you. Also, let agents know of any developments that you have seen that you have liked. They may have a property there that suits you. If you are consistently shown properties that don’t suit your needs, it is a warning you are hands of an in-experienced agent. It would be best to change them immediately.