I used to work for one of the big agents and the only properties they sell are the ones where the builders pay them big commissions. Why is that ? If the builder is a good one and the development is selling well they don't need to pay big commissions to these companys. I think people are now realising they can get better service from the smaller agents and alot more choice. By all means go on a viewing trip, see areas and get a feel for the places but don't be pressurised into parting with any money. A good agent will allow you time to think and the reserve forms can always be sent via fax from the UK with a deposit. If you want any other advice please pm me

Mrs P

Thanks to everyone for thier advice about agents. 'Parador' have not mentioned any add-ons to the price the developer is asking. I thought the agents commission was included in the developers price if 'Parador' is an agent for them? Confused now as the trip is comming up in 5 weeks! Help Vox.

Yes, it should be. You should pay exactly the same price regardless of whether you go direct to the developer or via an agent (but check anyway as there are a few exceptions).

It is resales where the agents commission is often added on top.

Thanks Keithwalters that was my understanding also, Cheers Vox.

Believe me if you walk into the show house and negotiate with the developer you will get it alot cheaper than through any agent.
Like I have already said resales can have up to 25% commission added but you aren't looking at resales anyway.

Unfortunately the developer 'Taray' in the Mar Menor area will not deal with anyone who is not represented by an agent unknown to them!!! Seems like 'Parador' and the likes of have got them in their pocket!

I think that would be an exception.....I have never known any developer offer cheaper prices direct to the client. What if the agents found out? Could the developer really afford to fall out with the agents and lose all the custom?

The vast majority of people come to developers via agents so a big developer really couldn´t afford to fall out with the agents by under cutting them.

I went direct to the developer with one of my purchases back along....they wouldn´t even drop 10 measley euros.

If you have already been there with an agent then the agent is still entitled to the commission so they wouldn't drop the price.
You don't need to use big agents to buy.

Yes, that is correct about the agent still being entitled to their commission if you went their first with an agent (I didn´t).

But I still disagree about developers negotiating on the price of their properties...a few minority might, possibly smallish developers who are desperate for the custom......or the not too ethical ones who perhaps have one price for the Spanish and another price for foreigners. But the vast majority will not negotiate at all. It´s a bit like shopping in Tescos...the price is the price is the price, no discounts for anyone no matter who you are or how many you buy.

An friend was shown a new property, by a well known promotion company, on a small site of now 10 residences. Unfortunately after giving a deposit was unable to continue at that time.
Several months later,still upset at losing both house and deposit:curse: friend returned and seeing another new house being built was introduced to the builder and bought direct from him at 30% less.
Don't think one has a chance to negotiate on the big complexes for they are all sewn up with promoters.
Just like to highlight the sort of disclaimers on many of these off-plan developements

Legal Notice: The perspectives presented here are an initial conceptual representation of the project and not definitive project plans. The appearence, design, number, and distribution given are only a guide and are not binding and are subject to modification due to technical or legal demands.

A great many people now seeking court action because they heard what they wanted too and were rushed into signing the contract thereby not having a chance to read the smallprint.

Agree, I 've tried all that malarky of haggling with developers your right, no way will developers fall out with their agents who supply all the punters! Vox

Thanks for the info, but why did your friend put a deposit on a property they could not afford to buy???? Vox

This is what my original post was saying, developments that the big agents take you too are the ones to avoid. There are plenty of developers here that don't use the big boys, shop around and go to the show house yourself. You will get a discount.

look at post 26! Vox

I know he says developers won't cause aggro with their agents.
They don't all use agents.
I'm only trying to help you, I have worked for one of the big companies on the Costa Blanca and only telling you what I know from experience.

Good luck with your purchase