Not all agents are equal. How to identify trustworthy professionals and avoid problematic operators.
Finding the right agent can make or break your Montenegro property experience. Here's how to find a good one.
Why Agent Choice Matters
A good agent will:
- Show you appropriate properties (not waste your time)
- Provide accurate information
- Negotiate fairly on your behalf
- Coordinate with lawyers and notaries
- Support you through the entire process
A bad agent will:
- Push unsuitable properties (highest commission)
- Provide misleading information
- Disappear after the sale
- Create problems that cost you money
Red Flags to Avoid
1. Pressure Tactics
- "Someone else is viewing tomorrow"
- "Price goes up next week"
- "Deposit required immediately"
Reality: Good properties sell, but genuine urgency is rare.
2. Vague About Details
- Can't provide exact address
- Unclear on ownership status
- Evasive about building issues
Reality: Professional agents know their properties.
3. Cash-Only Requests
- Wants payment to personal account
- Discourages written contracts
- Offers "special deal" for cash
Reality: Legitimate transactions have paper trails.
4. No Online Presence
- No website or listings
- No reviews findable
- Operates only through WhatsApp
Reality: Established agents have digital footprints.
5. Unrealistic Promises
- "Guaranteed 15% yields"
- "Prices will double"
- "No need for lawyer"
Reality: Professionals are realistic, not salesy.
Green Flags to Look For
1. Transparent Listings
- Clear photos and descriptions
- Accurate pricing
- No "call for price" games
2. Local Knowledge
- Knows the areas deeply
- Can discuss pros AND cons
- Understands local regulations
3. Professional Setup
- Office presence
- Website with real listings
- Responds professionally
4. Happy to Wait
- Doesn't rush decisions
- Suggests viewing multiple options
- Recommends thinking time
5. Works with Lawyers
- Has lawyer recommendations
- Doesn't discourage legal review
- Coordinates documentation
Questions to Ask Agents
About the Agency
- How long have you operated in Montenegro?
- How many transactions did you complete last year?
- Can you provide references from past clients?
- Are you licensed/registered?
About Properties
- Who is the current owner?
- How long has it been listed?
- Why is the owner selling?
- Are there any known issues?
- What are the actual running costs?
About the Process
- What is your commission and who pays it?
- Will you coordinate with my lawyer?
- What happens if problems arise?
- Do you assist after purchase?
Agency Types in Montenegro
International Agencies
**Pros**: Professional standards, English-speaking, familiar processes
**Cons**: Higher fees, may focus on luxury only
**Examples**: Savills, Knight Frank representatives
Local Established Agencies
**Pros**: Deep local knowledge, relationships, full price range
**Cons**: Variable English, different service standards
**Examples**: Various Budva/Tivat-based agencies
Individual Agents
**Pros**: Personal service, often flexible on fees
**Cons**: Limited coverage, no backup if issues arise
**Considerations**: Check track record carefully
Developer Sales Teams
**Pros**: Know their product perfectly, may offer incentives
**Cons**: Only sell their own development, obvious bias
**Best for**: If you've already decided on a development
Commission Structures
Standard Practice
- Agent commission: 3-5% of purchase price
- Usually paid by seller (not buyer)
- Sometimes split between buyer and seller agents
What to Negotiate
- If you're buying AND selling through same agent
- If you're purchasing multiple units
- If you're an investor with ongoing needs
What's Non-Negotiable
- Agents need to earn a living
- Rock-bottom fees often mean rock-bottom service
- Pay for quality guidance
Using DOMA to Find Agents
On DOMA, every listing shows the representing agent or owner. You can:
- Browse listings in your target area
- Identify agents with properties you like
- Check their full portfolio on their profile
- Contact directly through the platform
This lets you evaluate agents by their listings before engaging.
Working with Multiple Agents
Pros
- See more properties
- Compare service levels
- Not dependent on one person
Cons
- May see same properties twice
- Agents less motivated if not exclusive
- Can get confusing
Our Recommendation
- Start with 2-3 agents
- Be transparent that you're working with others
- Focus on 1-2 once you find good ones
Building a Good Relationship
Be a Good Client
- Be clear about your requirements
- Respect their time
- Provide feedback after viewings
- Make decisions in reasonable timeframes
Expect Professional Service
- Timely responses
- Accurate information
- Honest advice
- Follow-through on commitments
What If Things Go Wrong?
Minor Issues
- Address directly with the agent
- Document communications
- Escalate to agency management if needed
Serious Problems
- Consult your lawyer
- Document everything
- Consider formal complaint to tourism ministry
- Leave honest reviews to warn others
Conclusion
A good agent is worth their weight in gold - they'll save you money, time, and stress. A bad one can cost you dearly. Take time to find the right partner for your Montenegro property search.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
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