Could anyone recommend a real estate agent who has worked with American clients? We're looking for property near Tanauan City in Batangas. My Filipino wife and I seem to have made every agent we work with unhappy, though. I've heard things like "difficult," "gets angry," "hard to work with," and even "just a tiring person." I think it's because they aren't used to working with foreigners who want direct answers. All four properties we tried to buy fell through because the agents were hiding information. I only realized I had become "the difficult customer" after that 😁 It would be a big help if the agent can speak English.
I understand your frustration. It's really important that your wife and the agent speak only in Tagalog. And when you get home, your wife is going to be furious that you weren't part of the conversation. Good luck... we've all been through that pain....
Agents are the same everywhere. Check the Special Power of Attorney to sell (selling authority). Many people, like aunts, cousins, and friends, want a share of the commission. Also remember the two-stage contract that lawyers draft. 1) Written conditional offer to purchase: you pay at least around 10,000 pesos and get certified copies of all documents, which gives you time to review, do due diligence, and arrange funds. If you don't go through with the purchase, this amount is not refundable, and if you do, it's deducted from the purchase price. This is a very important step before buying property. 2) Absolute Deed of Sale. This is the final payment.
Put simply: ask the agent to show you the license issued by DHSUD. If they can't produce it, they're a fake agent. If they do, ask for a copy of the deed showing the owner. I've caught several scammers who disappeared after I asked for this. Once you have a copy of the deed, use a lawyer to investigate everything. Sometimes family members are also listed on the deed, and if even one of them objects, don't proceed.
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