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How to Prevent Real Estate Agents from Wasting Your Time with Unfit Properties

Navigating the real estate market in Ghana can be a daunting experience, especially when dealing with agents who demand viewing fees and end up showing you properties that do not match your preferences. If you’ve been through this frustrating cycle, you’re not alone. Many prospective buyers and renters face these challenges when looking for their ideal home.

The good news? There are practical and effective ways to prevent agents from wasting your time and money. In this guide, we’ll explore actionable steps you can take to ensure a smooth and efficient property search that aligns with your needs.

1. Be Clear and Specific About Your Needs from the Start

One of the main reasons agents show properties that don’t fit your criteria is a lack of clear communication. Before engaging with an agent, take time to outline exactly what you’re looking for in a property. Consider the following:

Location: Specify the exact neighborhoods or areas of interest (e.g., East Legon, Cantonments, Tema Community 25).

Budget: Be upfront about your price range and whether it’s negotiable.

Property Type: Clearly state whether you are looking for an apartment, townhouse, or detached home.

Size Requirements: Mention the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and any additional space requirements (e.g., home office, backyard).

Amenities: Outline must-have features like security, parking space, or proximity to schools and businesses.

Providing a detailed checklist to your agent will reduce the chances of them showing unsuitable properties and can help you gauge their competence early on.

2. Work with Reputable Agents or Agencies

There’s a significant difference between experienced, reputable real estate agents and those looking to make quick money. Before choosing an agent, do your homework:

Ask for Recommendations: Seek referrals from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently acquired property.

Check Online Reviews: Platforms like Blavior, Jiji, Meqasa, and social media pages often have reviews of agents.

Verify Licensing: Although Ghana’s real estate market isn’t heavily regulated, some agents are affiliated with associations such as the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA).

Choose Agencies Over Individuals: Real estate agencies often have professional standards and are more accountable than independent agents.

Working with a credible professional minimizes the likelihood of being shown irrelevant properties and being asked for unjustified viewing fees.

3. Negotiate Viewing Terms Beforehand

In Ghana, it’s common for agents to request a viewing fee upfront before showing any properties. While this has become an accepted practice, it doesn’t mean you have to comply without negotiation. Consider these strategies:

Agree on a Pay-Per-Success Model: Negotiate with the agent to only pay if they find you a property that meets your criteria.

Bundle Viewings: Instead of paying for each visit, propose a one-time fee for multiple viewings.

Request a No-Fee Initial Consultation: Many reputable agents are willing to discuss options without requiring payment upfront.

Sign an Agreement: Outline clear expectations, stating that viewing fees should only apply if a suitable property is found.

4. Use Online Platforms to Pre-Screen Properties

Before reaching out to an agent, leverage online property platforms to filter options yourself. Websites like Meqasa.com, Tonaton.com, and Jumia House allow you to browse properties based on your preferences and budget. By shortlisting options yourself, you can:

Avoid unnecessary site visits to unsuitable properties.

Cross-check properties to ensure they aren’t duplicates listed by multiple agents.

Compare prices and amenities to identify good deals before visiting in person.

Once you find properties that meet your criteria, you can share the specific links with your agent to ensure they are showing you exactly what you want.

5. Insist on Detailed Property Descriptions and Photos First

Before committing to a physical viewing, insist that agents provide comprehensive details about each property, including:

Recent Photos and Videos: Request clear and up-to-date visuals to assess the condition of the property.

Exact Location: Some agents may withhold the address, but it’s crucial to confirm whether the location aligns with your needs.

Amenities and Facilities: Ensure the property has the features you’re looking for before investing your time.

If an agent hesitates to provide such information, it might be a red flag that the property is not worth your time.

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6. Have a Written Agreement with the Agent

A written agreement ensures that both parties understand the expectations of the engagement. Your agreement should cover:

No upfront fees unless mutually agreed.

A clear timeline for property searches.

A condition that only properties meeting your criteria will be shown.

While not all agents may be open to this, reputable ones will be willing to provide some form of commitment to avoid wasting your time.

7. Consider Engaging a Lawyer or a Trusted Representative

If you’re unfamiliar with real estate dealings in Ghana, consider hiring a lawyer or a trusted property consultant to act on your behalf. They can:

Vet agents and property listings.

Negotiate terms to protect your interests.

Handle documentation to prevent fraudulent activities.

This approach can save you time and potential financial losses in the long run.

8. Set a Viewing Schedule and Stick to It

To avoid wasting time with multiple unnecessary visits, set a specific viewing schedule that works for you. Inform your agent that you will only be available at certain times and that properties must be pre-approved by you before scheduling a visit.

This disciplined approach helps agents focus on finding the right match instead of showing random options in a bid to earn a commission.

9. Be Wary of Unrealistic Promises

Some agents may lure you in with offers that sound too good to be true. If an agent promises properties significantly below market rates or claims to have exclusive deals, proceed with caution. Do your own market research to avoid falling for scams or subpar properties.

10. Trust Your Instincts and Walk Away When Necessary

If an agent seems pushy, vague, or unwilling to meet your conditions, don’t be afraid to walk away. It’s better to invest time in finding the right professional than to waste money and energy with the wrong one. The right agent will respect your requirements and work in your best interest.

Conclusion

Finding the right property in Ghana doesn’t have to be a stressful or costly experience. By being proactive, setting clear expectations, and leveraging technology, you can avoid falling into the trap of paying unnecessary viewing fees and wasting time on irrelevant properties.

Always remember that a reputable real estate agent values your time and investment and will work to ensure you find a property that truly meets your needs.

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