Where should you start once you’ve decided to buy or sell a home?

You are going to move. Maybe you’ve had a job transfer, need to upsize to add space for additional family members, or, after sheltering at home, you just want a new place to live. Your first inclination will probably be to open a new browser window and start your search. Most people I know love looking at homes online, including myself. So, you start browsing some beautiful homes in your area and begin to dream. But then, you pause. 

How much home can you actually afford? 

How much will you net from the sale of your current home? 

How should you go about putting your house up for sale?  

What type of loan would be best for you? 

How much would you need for a down payment? 

Are the areas where you are looking trending upwards or downwards in the market? 

What about building a new home? 

Are there things you should consider besides how much you like the house based on the online photos? 

That’s the point at which you should choose a realtor. Why? Because a real estate agent will help you answer each of these questions. Not only that, but she will walk with you through each step of the process. So, then the question becomes simply, which real estate agent should I choose? Of course, I’d be honored if you would just be reading through this newsletter, decide I’m the one, and give me a call. But, if you aren’t ready to do that, schedule an interview. Just because an agent is listed with a picture beside the home you’re attracted to on Zillow, doesn’t mean she’s the agent for you. The agency relationship is a fiduciary relationship - built on trust. You need to trust your agent. You will be making, most likely, the largest purchase of your life, you want to know you’re getting the best advice possible. Some statistics show that up to 89% of people use the first realtor with whom they speak. That’s fine if you feel confident after that first conversation. But, you can also schedule interviews with a few agents you’d like to consider. Get a feel for how well you would work together, how knowledgeable she is, and what her plans would be to help you sell your current home and/or buy the house of your dreams. Whether you decide to formally sit down and interview several agents or informally speak with one or two over the phone, make the choice your choice. Don’t leave it up to chance. 

To search for homes, visit my website and click on: "Find a Home"