What legal requirements should I verify when selecting a real estate agent?

When choosing a real estate agent in Costa del Sol, it's crucial to verify several legal requirements to ensure their legitimacy and your protection. Firstly, confirm the agent or agency is officially registered. In Andalucía, real estate agents must be registered with the Register of Real Estate Agents of Andalucía (Registro de Agentes Inmobiliarios de Andalucía - RAIA), which can be checked online. This registration indicates they comply with professional and financial guarantees, including having professional liability insurance. Secondly, inquire about their professional indemnity insurance, which protects you in case of errors or negligence on their part. A reputable agent will readily provide evidence of this coverage. Thirdly, understand their commission structure and ensure it's clearly outlined in a written agreement before you commit. This agreement should also detail the services they will provide. Fourthly, ask about their procedures for handling client funds, as any deposits or payments should be managed through secure, legally compliant methods, often via a lawyer's escrow account. Finally, ensure the agent provides clear and transparent information regarding property titles, potential cargas (encumbrances), and any relevant planning permissions or legal issues associated with properties you are interested in. A good agent will guide you through the legal due diligence process, often recommending independent legal counsel for conveyancing.