When buying or selling a property, the estate agent you choose makes a world of difference. This is because not all agents work the same way. Some take an active role in ensuring their clients get the best deal, while others are passive and simply go through the motions of the process.
Both types of agents, by the way, charge sellers the same level of commission. In Las Palmas this is 5% so it’s a very good idea to use the best agent you can find. Buyers also need to choose a quality agent to make sure they get the best deal possible and avoid any Las Palmas property pitfalls.
Here’s a breakdown of the difference between a passive and an active Las Palmas estate agent.
The Passive Las Palmas estate agent
A passive estate agent sees themselves as a facilitator, not an advisor. Their job, in their mind, is simply to list properties, arrange viewings, and process paperwork. They focus on one thing; getting their commission as easily as possible. They view potential problems as things to be avoided rather than things to be solved. If problems emerge after the sale, that is not the passive agent’s problem.
Here’s what a passive agent typically does (or doesn’t do):
Doesn’t check all the details – If issues arise with valuations, taxes, or paperwork, they won’t spot them or won’t bother to fix them.
Avoids difficult conversations – They don’t warn sellers if their price is unrealistic or tell buyers about potential pitfalls that they spot.
Doesn’t anticipate or solve problems – Instead of addressing challenges early, they wait until the last minute, often causing delays or unexpected costs. Deals often fall through because of unforeseen problems that are, of course, never the passive agent’s fault.
Puts their commission before their client – The goal is to close the deal, even if it’s not in the client’s best interests.
Using a passive estate agent means you are always left with doubts about whether you got a good deal, or whether there is problem lurking in the future that wasn’t spotted.
The active Las Palmas estate agent
An active estate agent sees their role as much more than just handling transactions. They take a proactive approach, ensuring that their clients make the best possible decision, with no hidden surprises.
An active agent will:
Check every detail – They ensure that valuations, taxes, and legalities are accurate and fair.
Give honest, expert advice – Even if it means difficult conversations about pricing or expectations. An active agent is not afraid to tell their clients things that they don’t want to hear.
Solve problems before they arise – Anticipating issues and dealing with them early to avoid delays and stress.
Ensure a smooth post-sale experience – Making sure that buyers and sellers don’t face unexpected financial or legal issues after the deal is done.
What makes an active Las Palmas estate agent?
A lot of the skills and knowledge that make an active agent come from experience. It takes years to learn how to value property accurately, anticipate problems, and know how to solve them. It also takes a positive attitude and a dedication to getting the best possible deal for every client.
To spot an active estate agent, ask plenty of questions and ask for references. Also, expect a long-track-record of successful property deals in the area where you are looking to buy or sell.
Same Commission, Different Results
Whether you work with a passive or an active agent, you’ll be paying roughly the same commission. The difference? A passive agent might cost you thousands in mistakes or missed opportunities, while an active agent ensures you get the best deal with the least stress. Active agents often make their clients money: Here are three real-life examples of how it happens.
So, when it comes to choosing a Las Palmas estate agent, the real question is: Would you rather work with someone who just wants their commission, or an active Las Palmas estate agent who wants the best for you?
Read this article for three examples of recent property transactions where my experience in the Las Palmas property market has saved my clients tens of thousands of euros.