Over the last few years we have seen big, well known real estate franchises pop up here in the Cancun Real Estate area, companies with lots of sales agents, flashy web sites, lots of property listings and big posh offices. In the recent past it seems that it was a good thing to be part of a big company. A big company meant security and professionalism. It meant that you were dealing with a well established company that provided back up to their staff and to you as the consumer. But does it really mean good service and security when buying Cancun Real Estate or property in other parts of Mexico?
Buying Cancun Real Estate is one of the biggest purchases you will ever make. So is dealing with a large franchise best for you? Just because a company has a big well known name does not necessarily mean you will be dealing with reputable agents and that the company will back you up. But remember the franchise is here in Mexico, so don’t count on that same security you may have with big franchises back home.
Really, real estate should be relationship based. It’s all about people. So find a broker that you feel comfortable with and work towards building a relationship, whether or not is a big or small company. Do your homework. Is this broker a member of the local real estate professional’s association and an international affiliate of NAR? Don’t be afraid to ask for references and do check them. Does your broker keep in touch and send you listings that are appropriate for your needs? Or just listings that he/she wants to sell you?
Big web sites with lots of property listings are great for shopping, but a big selection may not always be in your best interest. In this slow market, there are many pre-construction properties that would be a great risk to purchase. When you build a relationship with your broker you can establish what your risk parameters are and your broker should respect that.
So, like I said, this is a people business. What it boils down to is choosing one person to help you realize your dream of buying Cancun Real Estate. So big is not always better. The right broker is.
