Build your American real estate team
A successful transaction is a team effort, but every participant has a different role and may owe duties to a different party. Understand who represents you, verify licenses through the relevant regulator, and compare experience, scope, fees, availability, communication and conflicts before hiring.
Useful information, local context and concrete questions.
A successful transaction is a team effort, but every participant has a different role and may owe duties to a different party. Understand who represents you, verify licenses through the relevant regulator, and compare experience, scope, fees, availability, communication and conflicts before hiring.
Real estate agent
Choose experience in the exact locality and property type, not merely a large sales count. Ask how the agent researches value, handles competing offers, communicates problems and documents agency duties and compensation.
Lender or mortgage broker
Compare total borrowing cost, service, underwriting requirements and realistic closing timelines across written offers. Ask which fees may change, who will service the loan and what could delay or invalidate an approval.
Inspector & specialists
Use independent, properly qualified professionals for the building, its major systems and local hazards. A general inspection may reveal the need for roof, structural, drainage, electrical, environmental or other specialist reviews.
Attorney, title & escrow
Confirm who examines ownership, holds funds, prepares documents, records the transfer and resolves title issues in that state. Independently verify all payment instructions because last-minute transfer fraud is a serious risk.
