Real estate exhibitions are prime venues for direct dialogue between homebuyers, investors, and developers. However, with a dazzling array of projects and sales staff’s tactical tactics, asking precise questions to obtain key information and avoid information traps is a core skill for exhibition-goers. This article will provide a systematic framework for asking questions, covering five key areas from basic information to risk assessment, to help you efficiently screen and make informed decisions at exhibitions.
Project Basic Information: Verify Qualifications and Compliance
“Does the project have all five certificates? Can you provide the pre-sale permit number?”
(Avoid the risk of unlicensed sales and ensure the legitimacy of property rights)
“Is the land for residential, commercial, or mixed-use use? How many years of use remain?”
(Avoid property rights being eroded or the intended use not matching expectations)
“What is the developer’s track record for project delivery? Have there been any delays or disputes?”
(Evaluate corporate credibility through historical performance)
Price and Discounts: See beyond superficial discounts
“What does the average price include? Are the brands and models clearly listed in the standard finish?”
(Avoid the “low-price lead, high-price renovation” scheme)
“What are the specific terms of the discount? Is the deposit refundable? What is the signing deadline?”
(Clearly identify any restrictions to avoid impulsive capital locking)
“What is the price range for similar projects in the surrounding area? What is the pricing basis for this project?”
(Evaluate value for money through horizontal comparison)
Planning and Supporting Facilities: Verify the authenticity of the promotional information
“Are the school district/subway facilities complete? When will the planned facilities begin construction? Are there any government documents?”
(Request approval from the Planning Bureau or a construction permit)
“Are the community’s internal planning, such as greenery ratio and parking space ratio, included in the contract? Will the actual delivery be reduced?”
(Prevent verbal promises from being inconsistent with contract terms)
“Are there any unfavorable factors in the surrounding area, such as high-voltage power lines or garbage dumps? How are they marked on the plan?”
(Require the salesperson to specify the specific locations and retain evidence)
Property Rights and Risks: Clarify Legal Boundaries
“Is the property ownership clear? Are there any mortgages, foreclosures, or relocations?”
(Request proof of property rights verification)
“If the project fails to complete, is there a third-party escrow account to ensure the safety of funds?”
(Confirm pre-sale fund supervision measures)
“Are there any trading restrictions for shared-ownership properties/commercial and office projects? What will the future resale costs be?”
(Clarify the impact of property ownership on long-term value)
Contract and Delivery: Identify Key Terms
“Are the delivery standards consistent with the model apartment? How will any discrepancies be compensated?”
(Request written confirmation of renovation details)
“What services are included in the property management fee? How is the price adjustment mechanism agreed upon?”
(Avoid hidden costs later)
“How is liability for breach of contract divided? For example, what is the compensation standard for delayed delivery or area discrepancies exceeding 3%?”
(Focus on checking for “unfair clauses” in the contract supplement)
Additional Questioning Techniques:
Request a written response: For key promises (such as school districts and delivery time), require the salesperson to sign and confirm the promotional materials.
Probe for details: When the other party uses vague terms like “approximately” or “estimated,” ask for specific data or supporting documentation.
Record and document: With permission, record important conversations for future legal action.
The art of questioning at real estate exhibitions is essentially a process of information exchange. By using structured questioning, you can not only identify projects that truly meet your needs but also avoid potential issues such as contract traps and property rights risks. After visiting the exhibition, it is recommended to organize and archive the collected information and questions, and make a final decision based on field visits and legal advice.
