I recently asked several expert real estate agents here in Hampton Roads a simple question:
What’s your best advice for people in the market for a new home?
I received terrific responses and want to share them with you. Please check out the websites for each agent and feel free to contact them if you have further questions.
1. Jackie Dunbar, RE/MAX Alliance
“I believe one of the most important things to consider when searching for your home is the area. It is far better to by a less expensive home in a better location than to purchase a home that may have everything on your list. It is very important to remember the reason you buy a house is that the value of the house will continue to grow. The right area and the right schools should trump all the other wants and desires.”
2. Jade Rouzeau, Howard Hanna William E. Wood
“When you call the agent from a listing sign, that agent represents only the seller. Seek your own representation so you have an advocate making sure YOUR best interests are served. In almost all circumstances the seller pays (all or most of) the brokerage commission for your buyer agent, so it’s worthwhile to exercise your right to representation at little to no cost to you.”
3. Shewling Moy, Keller Williams Realty Coastal Virginia
“Although they do the same work, assist you to buy and sell houses and receive the same commission, there is a difference between a real estate agent, Realtor and broker. Each requires a different level of education and expertise. Know the difference and do your research before choosing representation.”
4. Krissi Wood, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
“Online search tools can be misleading and don’t always have the most up-to-date data or information. You may also be overlooking potential neighborhoods and properties. Because of their relationships, agents know about upcoming properties before they hit the market, giving you the upper hand.”
5. Debbie Ramos, Long & Foster
“Buyers need to understand there are upfront costs when they write a contract. For example, an earnest money deposit shows the seller that the buyer has good faith in moving forward with the transaction. There are also other fees including home inspection and appraisal. Some of the upfront fees can be credited back to the buyer at closing.”
Great info Shikma! I would also like to add that it is important that someone looking to buy or sell a house also get pre-approved for a loan before they start looking. This will help them know what price range to focus on and whether or not they can even get a loan on a house or not. This could save them and their agent at of time.