Not sure of the role of a settlement agent? (We can help). In simple terms, a settlement agent handles the legal and administrative process of transferring property ownership, coordinating with banks, and ensuring funds and documents are exchanged correctly. But of course, it’s rarely ever simple.
A good settlement agent can make the difference between a smooth property transaction and a stressful one – and unfortunately there are some few horror stories out there. (but we’ll leave that for another day).
In Western Australia, there are around 650 licensed settlement agents operating around the state. But they’re not all the same. So when it’s time to find the one that’s right for you, it’s important to do your homework. (and don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions).
Here are some of the key things to look for in deciding upon a settlement agent.
- Experience with your type of property
A settlement agent can assist with a range of property acquisitions; established residential homes, strata properties, rural properties, vacant land, ‘off-the-plan’ purchases, and larger commercial properties.
Given the variety of properties that can fall under the remit of a settlement agent, it makes sense to choose a company that has plenty of experience with the type of property you’re purchasing, and can identify potential issues early so they don’t become a problem down the line.
- Good Communication
This is one of the biggest differentiators, but if you’re a first-time client it’s also difficult to know how good the communication is until you sign up with someone – and by that stage you can’t do much about it. So it pays to do some research (more of this later). At a minimum, a good settlement agent should respond to emails within one business day. Return phone calls promptly. Explain the process in plain English. Keep you updated without you having to chase them. Tell you about any potential problems early, not on the day of settlement.
Another important consideration is to find out who will actually be handling your property settlement, on a day-to-day basis. Sometimes the person you meet isn’t the person doing the work. Instead, you may be dealing with one person who is managing over 100 files.
- Local knowledge is important
You can’t underestimate the importance of local knowledge. A settlement agent who works in Mandurah will already know their way around Local councils. Water Corporation processes. Common subdivision issues. Local real estate agents. The major lenders.
These working relationships are often built over decades, and can make problem-solving quicker, and less likely for something unforeseen to occur. Even if something doesn’t go to plan, a good settlement agent will know how to deal with finance delays, missing documents, boundary or survey questions, settlement date changes, and so on.
- Take a good hard look at the fees
Settlement fees can sometimes be a deal-breaker for clients. But it’s a mistake to automatically choose the cheapest quote – in fact, it may not be the cheapest quote when you add it all up. You’re entitled to ask for a breakdown of all the costs: the Professional fee, Electronic settlement fees. Landgate fees. Verification of Identity (VOI). Title searches. PEXA fees. Bank cheque or trust account fees (if applicable)
It’s also important to remember what’s at stake, and recognising the average price of a residential property in Greater Perth is around $850,000. (that’s a lot of money to have on the line). Do you only want to go by the cheapest price when it comes to choosing a settlement agent? Or someone who will give you peace of mind with a significant property purchase or sale?
Google star ratings can help you to decide
A Google star rating is a consumer-powered grading system that lets other consumers know how good a business is based on a score of one to five stars. These reviews provide immediate social proof, and establish trust in the company you may be interested in dealing with. (To find a Google star rating for a business, simply search the business name on Google Search or Google Maps).
For the record, based on over 80 reviews, C&R Settlements in Mandurah has a Google rating of 4.9 – 5.0/5, which is an excellent rating for a settlement agent.
Our customers frequently mention: Excellent communication. Professionalism. Smooth settlements. Responsiveness. Help with first-home buyers, plus several of our staff are mentioned by name in positive reviews.
By the way, thanks you to everyone who takes the time to leave a review – it’s much appreciated.
THERE’S A TRUCKLOAD OF REASONS TO CHOOSE C & R SETTLEMENTS IN MANDURAH.
Here at C & R Settlements in Mandurah, we’re renown for our hard work, attention to detail, and going the extra mile for our clients. We’re Mandurah’s Number One independent settlement agent with over 80,000 settlements under our belt (and still going strong). As an added bonus, when you choose C & R Settlements, you can use our free courtesy truck when it’s time to make the move. All you’ll need is a standard driver’s licence (and perhaps a few strong mates to lend a hand on moving day). Just be aware that our free courtesy truck is very popular, and bookings are essential. Just another reason to make the move to C & R Settlements in Mandurah. For details, call us on 9581 2148. Or email mandurah@crsetts.com.au