Sam B. in
Please remember that translating is converting the written word from one language to another and interpreting is converting the spoken word. Translators get paid by the word or the page and interpreters are compensated by the hour or the day.
Clients whose English is poor are usually painfully aware that they do not understand all of the complexities of, not only our language, but also our profession. If they do not bring someone who is comfortable with English you can certainly ask them to provide a family member or friend who can interpret.
However, bear in mind that there can be a number of issues that can arise when a younger family member, such as a child, is used as a translator. The first is the legal ramification if there is ever any dispute about whether your client completely understood what they were agreeing to. I can just imagine the glee with which an opposing attorney would point to a child upon which you had completely relied to convey the meaning of a contract! Be sure to refer the client to an appropriate bilingual professional such as an attorney, accountant, financial planner, etc. prior to signing any contract. There are also a number of certified real estate interpreters becoming available across the country.
The other issue that comes to mind is that, in many cultures, parents are highly respected. When a child acts as an interpreter they wield a lot of power over the lives of the people who raised him or her. This shifts the natural parent/child relationship and can cause deep emotional scars in the adults that can last well beyond close of escrow. Try to preserve their dignity as much as possible in this very difficult situation.
When using an interpreter it’s especially crucial to listen to your clients carefully and watch their body language for any signs that they may not understand you. Some groups are very reluctant to ask questions because it might make them seem dumb so emphasizing important points both verbally and in writing is always a prudent practice, especially in this case. Many may nod which may not indicate agreement or understanding but more the fact that they are paying attention.
You need to develop bilingual resources which can help clients whose English skills are less-than-perfect. One of the most likely places to find capable and competent interpreters is your local consulate office if you are located in a major city. Next, consider contacting the language department of a community college, college or university in your area. You can also call the head of a local church that serves the group with whom you are trying to communicate.
Try to find an interpreter who has some real estate experience. Our profession has many words and concepts that can be difficult for the layperson to understand, much less convert into another language. You may also want to contact your local Board of REALTORS® or a non-competing real estate office for a referral.
Translating real estate and loan documents into other languages is a time-consuming and expensive process. Don’t forget that many bilingual attorneys, title companies and lenders may have already done the work for you so be sure to ask around before engaging someone to translate documents. Companies that are regionally or nationally-affiliated may have resources in other states where this issue has already been addressed.
Finding an appropriate interpreter may seem like more trouble than it’s worth and you may be tempted to simply refer multicultural clients who do not speak fluent English to agents who speak their language. Remember that these clients chose you, for whatever reason, and like any other client with special needs you must find a way to adequately serve them. Few agents are aware of the fact that many Hispanic and Asian homebuyers often deliberately seek out Caucasian agents so they can practice their English with them. How else will they learn our language if they just speak their native tongue all of the time? So be sure to speak your best English around these clients and leave your American slang at home.
So remember, it’s alright to use adult children as interpreters early in the relationship but as the transaction progresses always refer the clients to bilingual professionals for more detailed explanations. I’ve always found that if a client likes you they will usually find a way to get around any language barrier.
