Real Estate Associations

Real Estate Associations

Here are some of the main credentials you will find in Andalucia:

API

API is the most recognised real estate regulatory 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 certification, backed by Spain's "Ministerio de Fomento". Their fees are strictly controlled and an official college monitors their conduct. Misconduct by an API agent can result in fines and the revocation of their licence.

GIPE

This Spanish association, founded in 1985, provides professional training and certification credentials. The initials stand for "Gestores Inmobiliarios Profesionales Europeos", (European Professional Real Estate Managers). Many agents in Andalucia have completed courses offered by GIPE and numerous agents are accredited by the organization. Actually it is the only bilingual professional real estate association in Spain. Some of the services offered by the association are collective civil liability policy, headquarters in Málaga center with co-working facilities, monthly networking events and legal advice. More info on the website at www.gipe.es/en

LPA Spain

A group of long established estate agents, mainly based around Marbella on the Costa del Sol, formed a group called "Leading Property Agents of Spain" in 2002. All members are professionally qualified estate agents and are some of the longest established companies on the coast. They adhere to a strict code of ethics and are dedicated to providing a highly professional and quality service to both buyers and sellers in southern Spain.