Traits of bad property agents

You want to find a good agent to represent you when you are renting, leasing, buying or selling your properties. Because you already have no control over what kind of agent the other party is using.

But, how do you tell the traits of bad ones?

A metaphor

Recently, I read about the characteristics of lousy boyfriends from a Chinese book. It can be summed up in one phrase,

無事揚威，有事龜縮

When translated into English,

On ordinary days, they boast their abilities. When troubles come, they hide in a shell like turtles.

It reminds me of another Chinese saying,

說﹐天下無敵﹔做﹐無能為力。

When translated into English,

Invincible in speech, but incapable in actions.

Bad property agents are exactly this type. It’s not uncommon to see agents glorify and exaggerate their results, knowledge and experience in the market. But when you really need them, they are nowhere to be found.

Case study 1

This happens very often: Agents disappear after signing the tenancy agreement and pocketing the commission, leaving you dealing alone with tenants on repairs, late payments, neighbor complaints, handover, etc.

Case study 2

The agent who sold me my 1st property referred me to his lawyer. When the lawyer did not follow-up on my requests, asked me to pay extra fees and nearly screwed up the deal, he only replied,

“Really? I haven’t heard of this before. Actually, I don’t know this lawyer very well.”

But you get referral fee from this lawyer, right?

(Sigh) Like lousy boyfriends, these agents are a big disappointment. 

But don’t worry, you will find a good one if you keep on trying.

Enough about bad agents.  In my next post, let me tell you my experiences with good and professional agents, ok?

Do share with me your past experiences too.  Hear from you soon!