What a realtor does
A realtor (licensed real estate agent) finds suitable properties, arranges showings, analyzes the price against comparable sales, prepares and negotiates the offer, coordinates inspections, the title company, the lender and the closing. For foreign buyers a good agent also explains local rules: condo documents, flood zones, insurance, rental limits and taxes.
How a Miami agent is paid
Agent compensation is a percentage of the sale price, paid at closing and negotiable. Since the August 2024 changes after the NAR settlement, buyers sign a written buyer-representation agreement before touring homes, and compensation is agreed in writing. In many deals the seller still offers to cover the buyer's agent, but you should always ask your agent exactly how they are paid and what happens if the seller does not cover it.
How to choose an agent
Check the Florida license on the state's DBPR website, the brokerage, recent sales in the area you want, client reviews and language. Ask how many buyers they work with at once, how quickly they reply, and who will actually show the homes. Lidiya Tretyak is licensed in Florida with Douglas Elliman, has a 5.0 rating on Zillow and works in English, Russian and Ukrainian.
Why a Russian-speaking realtor
Contracts and condo documents are in English and legal terms are easy to misunderstand. A realtor who speaks your language explains each document, the options and the risks without simplifying them, and can coordinate with attorneys and lenders on your behalf. This matters most for international buyers who are not in Miami during the process.
Questions to ask before you hire
How do you get paid and how much? Which areas and buildings do you know well? Can you show recent sales you represented? Who handles inspections and the attorney? What is your plan if the appraisal comes in low? A clear, specific answer is a good sign.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Laws and programs change — confirm details with a Florida attorney and a US tax professional.
