If you are planning to buy real estate in Mexico it is important to select a real estate agent who you can trust. A good realtor can be invaluable when you are making a huge financial and life decision. There are several major differences in buying real estate in Mexico versus buying in the US. A knowledgeable realtor can help you navigate the foriegn buying process and advise you on making the best possible decision. One of the dangers in just selecting an agent on the internet is that Mexico does not require real estate agents to be licensed so anyone can call themselves a real estate agent without any prior training. So how do find a real estate agent in Mexico that you can trust? Cashing in on a Second Home by Tom Kelly recommends that you ask a Realtor in your community or an acquaintance who has purchased real estate in Mexico for a referral of a good agent. He also suggests screening candidates with a series of questions to find the best agent for you. Kelly recommends asking the following questions: 1. How long have you been in business? 2. How long have you been doing business in this market? 3. Have you had experience with buyers looking at vacation homes from a distance? 4. Can you give me the names of some of your past customers that I can call? 5. Are you a member of a professional organization like the National Association of Realtors or AMPI? 6. What services do you offer? 7. What is your usual pricing for an engagement like this? Here are some additional questions to ask a buyers agent from RealEstate.com 8. Do you work full time as an agent? If not, why not? 9. How many buyers are you presently working with? Are you busy? 10. How long have you been a real estate agent? 11. Are you well-acquainted with the area where I plan to look for a home? 12. What is the average house price for the area over the past year? 13. Is the average price of the homes you deal with significantly above or below my budget? 14. How many sales have you been involved with in the past year? 15. Can you give me three references of buyers you have worked with? 16. Do you arrange the appraisal, inspection and house insurance? 17. Do you handle the closing? It is always smart to conduct your due diligence in real estate and the first step is choosing a real estate agent who you can trust will be honest with you and provide you sound advice. We have talked to several agents here at Mexico Real Estate Investment and recommend that you check them out. Here is a list of agents that we have interviewed or have contributed articles. Jim Scherrer PV Reba, Puerto Vallarta Retirement on the Mexican Riviera, Banderas Bay Real Estate: Humpback Whales, Warm Water, and Spectacular Views Nick Fong Cabo San Lucas Real Estate, Cabo Nick Fong: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Thomas Lloyd, Top Mexico Real Estate Interview with Mexico Certified Realtor: Thomas Lloyd Mario Restrepo, Baja Open House, Baja California The State of Baja Mexico Real Estate: Interview with Mario Restrepo, Buying Property in Mexico: The Major Steps Revealed Candy King, Coldwell Banker Bienes Raíces, Manzanillo Manzanillo, A Thriving Port Town Bob Findley, Manzanillo Real Estate Professionals, Manzanillo Insights on Manzanillo Mexico Real Estate: Interview with Broker Bob Findley