No. A translator can carry your words, but buying or selling a home takes more than words. In Indiana, the transaction documents are prepared and signed in English either way; what matters is who explains them. A friend, a relative or an app can tell you what a sentence says. Here is what an agent who speaks your language does that a translator doesn't.
Five things a translator can't do
- Know the real estate meaning, not just the word. I've spoken Spanish and English all my life, and I still had to study terms like earnest money and contingency when I got my license. Translating "contingency" doesn't explain the role it plays in your purchase.
- See confusion before it becomes a problem. After helping more than 120 families, I can tell when a step is about to lose someone. That's why I start buyers with a presentation in my office that goes over the steps and the key terms.
- Represent you. My real estate license is from Indiana. Translation alone doesn't authorize anyone to act as your agent.
- Coordinate the transaction. I work with the lender, the inspector and the title company, keep you informed and make sure each question reaches the right person.
- Know when it's not a real estate question. Some questions belong to a lender, a tax professional or an attorney.
When a relative comes to translate
You're welcome to bring someone you trust. I speak to you first, because you're my client, and I ask you privately whether you want your details discussed in front of that person. Your private information isn't shared just because a relative is in the room. If someone shares advice that doesn't fit your situation, I don't argue. I check the contract, the law or another reliable source and come back with the correct information.
Advice that's out of date
This is a pattern I see often: advice from friends, relatives, coworkers, websites or AI that was right for someone else, years ago. Laws, loan programs and markets change. Bring those questions to me, and I'll tell you when one needs a lender or an attorney. My goal isn't to replace the people you trust. It's for everyone to work from the same understanding.
When I say "this one needs an attorney"
A land contract, a lawsuit, putting a home in a trust, or adding a family member to the title. I explain the real estate process; an attorney explains the legal consequences. The buyer agreement I use includes this legal disclaimer:
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Buyer acknowledges that the Broker is not a professional or expert in the matters of law, financing, taxes, property conditions and/or inspections. In addition, the Broker has advised and recommended the Buyer to seek expert assistance for advice on such matters. Broker makes no warranty or guarantee concerning the service of such experts or their products, the condition of the property, the absence of defects therein, or the suitability of such property for Buyer's purposes.
Lisa Collio is a licensed real estate agent and is not a mortgage lender, loan officer, or broker. She does not originate loans, quote loan terms, or make lending decisions. For financing questions, speak directly with a licensed lender.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a family member translate when I buy or sell a home in Indiana?
Yes, you can bring someone you trust. Lisa still speaks to you first as her client and asks your permission before discussing private details in front of them.
What does a bilingual agent do that a translator doesn't?
A translator converts words. A licensed agent also explains real estate terms and steps, coordinates with the lender, inspector and title company, and tells you when a question needs an attorney.
When should I talk to an attorney instead of my real estate agent?
For legal questions, such as a land contract, a lawsuit, putting a home in a trust or adding someone to the title. Your agent explains the process; an attorney explains the legal consequences.
Lisa Collio
Real Estate Agent in Goshen and Elkhart, Indiana
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)
Helping buyers and sellers navigate the Goshen and Elkhart real estate market
Call (574) 370-5410 · Send a text · lisacolliorealtor.com
Hablo español · Serving Goshen and Elkhart, Indiana
RE/MAX Results, The Viruez Team
