1. Help you understand home values and market trends: We all want a good value when we make a purchase…no matter what we are purchasing. Whether it’s a home, a car, a pair of shoes or a loaf of bread, the key to making a good purchase decision is understanding the market value of the product we are purchasing. When I work with home buyers, we look not only at homes which are offered for sale, but we study recent sales data, and sales trends in the Andover area. Because the home buyer can’t physically tour homes which have recently sold and I have, my first hand knowledge of the market can be a valuable resource when comparing the condition and amenities of homes which are currently on the market with homes which have recently sold. Knowing your market will help you make an informed and confident purchase decision.
2. Explain zoning and building codes: Often a home buyer plans on improving the property he or she is purchasing. Whether it’s a simple plan such as adding a deck, pool or garage or a more complicated improvement such as an “au pair” suite or significant expansion, your buyer agent should help you research the current zoning and building codes before you buy. The last thing I want for my home buyers is for them discover that they can’t have that hot tub or 2 stall garage after they’ve purchased their home.
3. Prepare an offer that the seller is likely to accept: Now here’s an idea! Why write an offer that has no chance of being accepted or negotiated? Remember, the terms of the offer include more details then the offer price. Are your timelines reasonable and realistic? How much money will be held in escrow accounts? Do you have a solid–I mean SOLID–loan preapproval? I engage in ongoing communication with my buyer clients’ lender(s) so that I can leverage my buyers’ financial qualifications when negotiating on their behalf. A high offer price is of no value to a home seller if the buyer is unable to close the deal because financing fell through. Furthermore, starting with a poor offer sets a bad tone. You may win in the beginning but lose later if there is a home inspection issue or a timeline that needs to be revisited before closing.
4. Guide you throught the home inspection: After the home inspection, I help my buyers research the costs of any needed or recommended repairs and help them negotiate or resolve any home inspection issues to their satisfaction. Sometimes, for example, it may be in my buyers’ best interest to make their own repairs after the closing. Making your own repairs (if the negotiated price is agreeable) gives the home buyer control of the repair and subsequently, confidence that the repair will be completed properly and in accordance witht the buyers’ specifications.
5. Stay in touch after the closing: Often times there are considerations that come up after closing. When is trash pick up? The seller’s mail is still being delivered to the home, what should I do with it? Where can I find a good doctor, hairdresser, birthday cake?! I have a client appreciation program that keeps me in touch with all my clients. I provide them with valuable information and resources long after they move into their new homes.
