11 Top Real Estate Companies

How to judge a real estate site or agency

This category mixes very different businesses: listing portals that show homes for sale or rent, agencies that represent buyers and sellers, rental platforms, commercial property marketplaces and companies that make cash offers on houses. Know which one you are dealing with, because each makes money in a different way.

• Licensing: in many countries and states, agents and brokers must be licensed or registered. Ask for the number and check it with the regulator.
• Fees: ask who pays the commission, what percentage it is and whether there are listing, marketing or admin fees on top.
• Listing accuracy: portals pull data from many sources, so a home may already be sold or the price may be out of date. Confirm with the listing agent.
• Cash offers: speed has a price. Compare any offer with an independent valuation and read what fees or repair deductions apply at closing.
• Your contact details: enquiry forms on portals are often passed to agents or partners. Read the privacy policy if you want fewer calls.

Warning signs worth taking seriously

Rental fraud is the problem people report most often: copied photos, a landlord who is "abroad" and a request for a deposit before you have seen the property or signed a lease. Never send money by wire or gift card to secure a viewing. On CandorRated you can check who runs a website, how old its domain is and what contact details were found, then filter companies by country or city.

Frequently asked questions

Do listing portals own the homes they show?

Usually not. Most display listings from agents and owners and earn money from advertising or referrals.

How can I spot a fake rental listing?

Search the photos and address online, insist on an in-person or live video viewing, and pay only after you have a signed agreement with a verified landlord or agent.