Yes, while many companies on the Costa del Sol tour any person that wants to view a property, we are very selective in our business as to who we work with.
We look at the qualification of potential buyers in two contexts; firstly we look at their real estate needs and requirements in relation to their financial capability. Secondly we determine our level of involvement in working with them based on several factors, including their urgency.
In regards to financial qualification of potential clients and in order to comply with money laundering regulations in Spain, we are required to ask clients to disclose the source of funds.
In scenarios where clients request assistance with finance, we put them in contact with different banks and financial advisors. Usually, when they have presented all the documentation and they are pre-approved for a mortgage, we start visiting properties. Once potential buyers understand their financial capability, they become pre-qualified potential clients.
With potential buyers that are purchasing a property with cash (no mortgage required) or with their savings, we still comply with money laundering regulations; therefore these buyers need to justify the origin of funds and we are able to pre-qualify them.
When visiting high-end or luxury properties here on the Costa del Sol, for instance in areas like La Zagaleta, Sierra Blanca and Los Flamingos Resort, for properties which sale´s price is over €4.000.000, it is very usual that we request potential clients evidence of proof of funds prior to visiting a property. In this kind of market, most vendors are advised by their solicitors to request an official bank statement, bank´s name and address, balance of funds in checking and savings accounts amongst other documentation, prior for visiting a property, therefore, even clients in the high-end market are qualified.
Pro Tip:  Use an estate agent that qualifies clients, as potential buyers have the desire, means and resources to purchase a home and by qualifying them, you will not be spending your valuable time with viewings that won´t take you anywhere or with low offers that cannot be closed.