We are often asked why we need the ID card or address of prospective buyers – sometimes even insulted, with some saying other real estate agents aren't so "fussy." However, these other agents are acting illegally and could even get you into legal trouble.
Your contact details
"Why is the real estate agent asking for my contact details?"
Since June 13, 2014, real estate agents have been required by distance selling regulations to inform you about your right of withdrawal and to document this information. This is, of course, only possible if they know the person's name and address.
By providing your address, you are also "identifying" yourself and demonstrating that you, too, care about the seriousness of the negotiations. In the interest of transparency regarding who spoke to whom, when, and about what, it is important to communicate with people in a traceable manner – not just with an email address or mobile phone number.
It is also in the interest of every real estate agent's personal safety to know in advance with whom they are meeting, possibly even in the dark in secluded locations. No professionally trained agent should engage in such a blind date.
The inspection report
"Am I obliged to sign an inspection report?"
Legally: No. We can't force you to do it. But any reputable real estate agent will ask you to do so, in order to provide proof to the owners. And why wouldn't you sign it?
There is nothing wrong with transparency in the real estate industry, and healthy trust in all parties to the negotiations is the basis for a successful business deal that satisfies all involved.
In the interest of everyone's safety and to meet our own high standards, we adhere to all these regulations and are happy to inform you about them. If you are interested in one of our properties, we invite you to contact us and see for yourself our professionalism, which protects both you and the sellers from mistakes.
