The entire process of acquiring a property can be a daunting task, hence the need to prepare adequately — never take each step for granted. Though real estate agents are not certified in Ghana, if you ask the right questions they can help make the process of acquiring a property less cumbersome.
Before making any offer for the property you have identified, here are a few questions you need to ask the real estate agent. Insist on receiving the right answers from the agent before you proceed with the purchase and make sure you meet the property owner before agreeing to anything. Here are five very important questions you should not skip when making an offer for a property:
1. Do you have an agreement with the property owner to sell the house?
Before dealing with a real estate agent, insist on seeing the agreement they have with the real owners of the house. Real estate agents serve as the middlemen between the owner of the property and you. A number of them may show you properties they do not have any control over. Ensure you see some form of evidence or insist you meet the owner of the property before you deal with the agent.
2. Are there extra charges or fees I need to pay?
Before going further with a real estate agent, ask them about the fees they charge when you use their services. A number of house hunters have avoided this question and ended up in a disagreeing with the real estate agent. Let them provide you with their charges and terms, if it suits you then you can engage their services.
3. How long has the property been on the market?
This question should give you a fair idea of the owner’s eagerness to get the property sold. A property that has been on the market for long implies that the seller could be getting impatient and would be more willing to cut the price to sell the house as fast as possible. A property that has been on the market for over three months leaves more room for negotiations.
4. Why is the owner selling the property?
If the seller has identified another property and wants to sell the current property to purchase the new one, then they might be more reluctant to cutting the price down. On the other hand, if the seller is about to relocate to another town or country and needs to get the property off the market before moving out, then the price can be bargained.
5. Are there other houses for sale in the neighborhood?
Ensure you get a precise answer to this question. If there are other properties for sale in that neighborhood, you might want to have a look and compare prices. There might be an affordable property with better features right across the street. You can also use a property portal like Lamudi to compare and contrast property amenities and prices.
These questions are crucial in helping you purchase the right property.
Do you have any questions about purchasing or renting property in Ghana? Send an email to contact@lamudi.com.gh