Real Estate Associations
There are a number of associations and groups offering credentials and licenses to real estate agents. Some focus mainly on sharing resources and provide a credential in as much as they associate prestigious or well-known names in the industry and therefore make a joint effort to uphold their good reputation. Others serve as official bodies that license agents or provide on-going training.
Here are some of the main credentials you will find in Andalucia:
API
API is the most recognized real estate regulation body in Spain. The letters API stand for "Agentes de la Propiedad Inmobiliaria", or "Real Estate Agents" in English. Agents who carry the API stamp have received official training and a credential that is backed by Spain's "Ministerio de Fomento". Their fees are strictly controlled and an official college monitors their behaviour. Misconduct by an API agent can result in fines and a revoked license.
GIPE
This Spanish credential stands for "Gestor Intermediario en Promociones de Edificaciones", which in English means "Intermediary Manager of Properties and Buildings. Many agents in Andalucia have completed courses offered by GIPE and numerous agencies are accredited by the organization.
LPA Spain
A group of long established property agents mainly on the Costa del Sol have formed a group called "Leading Property Agents of Spain". All members are professionally qualified real estate agencies and some of the longest established businesses on the coast. They adhere to a strict code of ethics and are dedicated to giving highly professional and quality service to both buyers and sellers in southern Spain.
