You’ve already taken the first step many people take when buying and/or selling a home: hiring a reputable real estate agent. Now it’s time to do your part to help ensure your real estate transaction(s) is as seamless as possible.
Wondering what you can do to assist your chosen advisor? Following are some simple ways to help your real estate agent help you:
Get a pre-approval.
This one goes out to all the prospective homebuyers out there. Getting a pre-approval from a lender can benefit your agent in two ways. First, he or she won’t waste valuable time showing you new homes that are out of your price range. Second, a pre-approval will allow you to act quickly once you do find your dream home. Contact HomeAmerican Mortgage Corporation for more information.
Determine your needs ahead of time.
Take some time to gather your thoughts before discussing them with your real estate agent. If you’re listing your home, it can be helpful to have a general idea of the lowest offer you can afford to accept (your agent will examine comparables in the area to help you determine an exact listing price). If you’re buying a new home, decide on your price range and put together a list of wants and must-haves. Be sure you and your spouse, significant other or any primary household decision makers are on the same page when it comes to expectations.
Be realistic.
And speaking of expectations, it’s important to be realistic. Whether you’re selling, buying or both, don’t let fanciful thinking derail your real estate transaction. Even though your home holds a decade of cherished memories and the elegant finishes and fixtures you so painstakingly selected, it likely won’t sell for $200,000 above market value. On the flip side, if you’re buying your first home on a limited budget, you may not be able to afford all the bells and whistles this time around (although Richmond American prides itself on offering more standard included features than many homebuilders!).
Communicate clearly.
Your agent may be an expert in buying and/or selling homes, but he or she is not a mind reader. If you don’t share your expectations, how can your agent achieve your desired results? Communicate clearly and effectively, and do your best not to exclude any important details (e.g., that a home without a gourmet kitchen is a deal-breaker). You don’t want your agent wasting valuable time on homes that don’t fit the bill.
Be flexible and listen.
When it comes to buying and selling homes, flexibility is key. Listen to your agent’s recommendations and advice and be prepared to roll with the punches. If, for instance, your agent asks you to duck out of your current home for a last-minute showing, take a walk around your neighborhood or head to a friend’s house. If he or she wants to take you to a community grand opening, postpone your Saturday brunch plans. Remember, no matter how inconvenient it may seem at the time, everything your agent asks you to do is bringing you one step closer to achieving your mutual goal.
Keep following our blog for helpful tips on buying or selling a home. To find a new home near you, visit RichmondAmerican.com. And don’t forget to check us out on Pinterest and Houzz!