All real estate agents basically do the same job!

Basics of the Real Estate Brokerage Business

Whether buying or selling a property—the interests of sellers and buyers could not be more at odds. The buyer’s goal is to purchase their desired property at the lowest possible price; the seller, on the other hand, seeks to obtain the highest possible price for their property. Given the regional variations in how the market operates—but above all because of the ever-increasing complexity of the Real Estate market—it is worthwhile for both potential buyers and sellers to consult a professional.

Even those who search for a home on their own and think they can manage without professional assistance will eventually have to deal with a real estate agent once they’ve found a suitable property and want more detailed information. It’s no coincidence that more and more salespeople are seeking the advice of a trained real estate professional.

A successful sale requires a high level of expertise and experience. Anyone looking to sell a property today—especially in the high-end market—is well advised to enlist the help of a qualified professional who has knowledge of, for example, construction engineering, civil and real estate law, tax and rental law, as well as civil law (condominium ownership and inheritance law) and insurance matters. In addition to the technical expertise that distinguishes a professional real estate advisor, the seller benefits not least from the significant time savings, as they do not have to handle all the crucial details themselves.

The services for the seller include:

• Appraisal and Valuation of the Property
• Setting a Realistic Selling Price
• Preparation of professional and detailed sales documentation for prospective buyers
  (or their lending bank)
• Organizing and conducting property tours
• Negotiating with prospective buyers
• Preparation/Drafting of a Draft Sales Contract
• Advice on real estate-related issues (e.g., tax implications of Sales).
• Arranging a Notarization and Transfer of Ownership

This is where we differ from other brokers!

1. Years of experience and professional expertise
   – We’ve been in business since 1944 and have facilitated over 5,000 successful sales transactions.
   – We currently employ over 80 staff members, all of whom hold the relevant professional certifications to provide you with the best possible expertise.
2. Professional real estate agents with the “
   ” seal of quality. Ginesta Immobilien is a member of the SVIT professional association and the Swiss Chamber of Real Estate Agents. To meet the needs of international clients, we have joined the world’s largest independent real estate brokerage network, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (www.leadingre.com). LeadingRe offers www.luxuryportfolio.com, the largest international marketplace for properties priced at over $1 million. We market your property for you free of charge on this marketplace in English and with a video. Luxury Portfolio has several partnerships, including with the Wall Street Journal Europe and youtube.com. Here, our clients benefit from cost-effective international listings.
3. Modern Digital Infrastructure
   Even today, it’s astonishing how many real estate agents still work with MS Excel® and MS Word® and manage their client contacts inadequately. We, on the other hand, have a state-of-the-art digital infrastructure tailored specifically to our real estate brokerage business, featuring a powerful customer relationship management (CRM) system. This enables seamless reporting of all client contacts, activities, and sales processes.
   Especially during challenging market conditions, our clients expect maximum transparency regarding the progress of the Sales process to date. Thanks to our digital solutions, we can offer a very comprehensive and professional feedback and reporting system—for both Sales and initial lease agreements.
4. The Real Estate Agent as a Consultant
   The direct path doesn’t always lead to the goal! A real estate agent should speak plainly with you and not give you false hopes. Often, properties for sale must first be properly prepared for the sales process by a sales consultant.
   You’ve come to the right place. We offer the following consulting services before and after the sale:
   
   • Before Sales/Rental
     • Collaboration on utilization studies and architectural competitions
     • Prior realistic price estimate and owner consultation on utilization mix, property type and construction costs.
     • Floor plan optimization proposals
     • Parceling concepts and establishment of condominium ownership
     • Preparation of Professional Sales Documentation
     • Arrangements for the Notarization/Transfer of Ownership
   • After Sales
     • Property gains tax declaration
     • Searching for a new home or rental property
5. The Broker Shares in the Sales Risk
   As brokers, we operate on a success-based model. Our success-based fees for sales or leasing transactions are transaction-oriented and are payable only upon successful completion of the transaction. For some time now, we have also been offering incentive models upon request, should you wish to have the real estate agent share financially in the success of the sale. We would be happy to provide you with a customized offer.

Don’t let illusions guide you—put a major asset in the right hands! Below is a checklist for choosing a real estate agent:

1. Visit the real estate agent at his office or have him come to your home. Ask him about his education, professional certifications, range of services, and track record.
2. Check his knowledge of the local market.
3. Ask him about his personal network and what marketing mix he would use for Sales of your property.
4. Check with notaries, banks, or lawyers to find out about the real estate agent’s reputation.
5. Ask for a detailed explanation of how he plans to proceed with the purchase or Sales and what you can expect from him, especially if the Sales are moving slowly.
6. Ask for a realistic estimate of the selling price. Request a written offer and price estimate (which may be subject to a fee, depending on the complexity). It is not you who will determine the price, but the market and the buyers. Don’t be blinded by overly optimistic promises from real estate agents. Choose an offer that is realistic and makes sense to you.
7. Ask for detailed information about the type of compensation. You should choose not the cheapest but the best Sales person for your property.
8. Check whether he is a member of the Swiss Real Estate Industry Association (SVIT) or the Swiss Chamber of Real Estate Agents (SMK) and whether he displays their logos on his stationery. Membership in the association is limited to those who meet the high standards regarding professional competence, education and continuing education, as well as
   ethical conduct.