Purchasing real estate is a significant decision.
Buying a home is one of the most important, and most rewarding, decisions many people will make. And choosing an experienced real estate agent to work with is one of the best decisions a home buyer can make to support the process.
That’s where I come in. I will be by your side every step of the way with my knowledge of the market and every aspect of the home-buying process. I will help you get all the information you need to make the right purchase decision for you, and I will never pressure you to buy before you are ready. It’s important to me that you feel content with your decision and your new home.
Finding the right home is a team effort.
I start by listening attentively to what you hope to find, and then work with you to help further refine what you’re looking for in a home–your must-haves as well as your can’t-stands. And this conversation will be ongoing because new ideas may emerge, budgets may fluctuate, priorities may get adjusted, and you may simply change your mind during the home-search process. This is normal! I will stay in close contact with you as new listings come on the market, prices change, or I uncover off-market “pocket” listings, and I will make your needs and wish-list items known to other agents as well.
I will also set you up with access to the Realtor’s database of listings (the MLS) so you can get notifications via e-mail of new listings immediately when they hit the market; you may use this online MLS portal to keep track of properties you like, make notes, and even send me messages about specific properties.
I have also found it very helpful to go on home tours together if you’re in town. As we drive around and discuss properties, special features, and neighborhoods, I often get an even clearer idea of what is important to you and what your ideal home would be.
Understanding the numbers is key.
Knowing how much to spend and what loan rates and terms are available to you if you need financing is a cornerstone of getting comfortable with your decision to buy. As a former accountant, I understand the numbers and can help you navigate the mortgage process. I will also help you select a local, reliable mortgage lender who is well respected, knowledgeable, and experienced–and who has your best interests at heart. If you’re looking for an investment property, I can help you analyze your potential cash flow and return on investment for that type of purchase as well.
Offering the right price.
Every offer situation is different, and sellers often have other needs (or “terms”) besides price. I will help you determine the optimal price and terms to offer for any given property. Toward that end, I will talk with the seller’s agent to find out what specifics can make your offer more enticing, and I will analyze and interpret nearby comparable sales and listings. I will also talk with you about your finances and your feelings about the property, and I will respect your budget and spending comfort level. If you are in a multiple-offer situation, I will share with you successful techniques for making your offer stand out to the seller.
Agent reputation is important.
I have worked diligently to earn my reputation for integrity and success. I am known for working hard to protect my clients’ best interests, for being pleasant to work with, and for expressing respect and kindness in all my interactions. On numerous occasions, seller’s agents have told me that my client’s offer was chosen over others because they were able to tell the sellers that working with me would be a positive, collaborative experience.
That doesn’t mean I give in or give up, however. It means that I’m a good communicator, I remain calm, and I work to find solutions to problems that may arise. These are the characteristics that have earned me a reputation that is an asset to my clients.
Navigating the inspections.
Once your offer is accepted, it’s time for your due diligence–time to fully investigate the property and the neighborhood to make sure that it’s truly the right property for you. Because of local market conditions, there may not have been time to inspect the house or even find out all the details about the neighborhood before you submitted your offer. You will most likely have an inspection contingency period to get all your questions answered and determine the condition of the house. I will help you decide which inspections to do, recommend skilled inspectors, coordinate all the scheduling, and help you get all the information you need. I will also keep track of all the important contract dates and help you navigate the escrow and title process.
A network of trusted professionals before, during, and after the sale.
Over the years, I have worked with and referred many contractors and tradespeople whom I can recommend for any work you might be interested in doing on a prospective property. Please see my Trusted Vendors page for a current list of recommended movers, landscapers, remodelers, painters, decorators, lenders, and more.
Your Realtor for life.
Whether we’ve worked together to find you your first home or your forever home, I’m with you for the long haul. I will always be just a phone call, e-mail, or text away whenever you have any questions–or are ready for a new home-buying adventure!