You are ready to sell your house and/or buy a new one. You’ve made a tough decision. How exciting! You are writing a new chapter in your life. So, how do you make sure this story has a happy ending? By ensuring the next decision is a good one — choosing the right real estate agent.
Finding a Boise real estate agent who has the expert knowledge and superior service to guide you through the process will turn your experience from stressful to worry-free, and with more money in your pocket.
If you are selling your home, keep an eye out for recent sales in your area and find out which agent made the sale. An agent who specializes in your area, such as East Boise, may already have buyers looking in your neighborhood. If you are looking to buy, this agent may likely have knowledge of homes that will be coming to market soon and get you in to see a home ahead of the competition.
Real estate experts, Engel & Völkers, advises you avoid making these mistakes:
- Misunderstanding the agent’s sales record
Look very closely at what your agent sold over the past year, and pay even closer attention to how many properties they listed. Selling 25 properties may be an impressive statistic to use during a presentation, but find out whether they sold 25 out of 25 properties or 25 out of 100 properties. Instead of choosing the agent who sold the highest number, choose the agent who sold the highest percentage. Their service is likely to be more tailored. - Falling for flattery
Some agents may tell you your home is worth more than it is to encourage you to choose them. However, overvaluing a property can be just as dangerous as undervaluing it. If the price is too high for the area or property type, your home could end up on the market for months. Eventually it will be necessary to drop the price, and some buyers may interpret this as a sign of desperation and will offer even less than the property is worth. - Choosing a family member or friend
It is only natural to want to work with someone you already know. Sadly, transforming a personal connection into a business one is often fraught with problems and can put a severe strain on your relationship. Your friend may feel that they don’t need to work as hard for you, as a friend is more likely to forgive small mistakes than a stranger would be. Even if they are a fantastic agent, there might be some bitterness if they are unable to get you the price you were hoping for. - Not checking references
You are hiring a professional to sell your property, so it’s important that you also treat this as a professional arrangement and thoroughly check their references. In addition to reviewing the references provided, gather your own. You can Google the agent’s name to find out how they are marketing their current properties, and phone their current clients to find out if they would recommend them. - Not considering agency reputation
Many independent real estate agents are good at what they do, as are agents that work for boutique companies. However, there are numerous added advantages to selecting an agency that offers full service, with a team of professionals working for you who will effectively market your house and professionally stage it. Staging has been proven to be a huge asset when selling houses and marketing is more important than ever in a competitive market-place.
Mark & Dawn Templeton, owners Templeton Real Estate Group
Whether it’s your first home purchase, or your fourth, there will always be some stress involved when dealing with likely your largest investment; however, having an experienced and trustworthy team, such as Templeton Real Estate Group, on your side will make the process as worry free as possible and have you settled in to your new dream home in no time!
If you would like to talk with a great agent, who will walk you through the home-buying process and communicate everything you need to know, be sure to call Templeton Real Estate Group today! As your East Boise Real Estate experts, we take special care of our clients; we listen to what you want and will find you your perfect match! Call us to check out some of East Boise’s great neighborhoods: Harris Ranch, Harris Crossing. and Harris North, River Heights at Barber Valley, and other East Boise neighborhoods.
Though we specialize in East Boise, we represent clients all over the Treasure Valley, both buying and selling. Contact us today @ 208.473.2203 or email @ info@templetonrealestategroup.com.
Templeton Real Estate offers full service marketing and staging with every listing
Come check out East Boise and see why it’s becoming a favorite destination in the Treasure Valley – great outdoor living, breathtaking scenery and wildlife found in the Boise Foothills, the Boise River and Greenbelt. Lucky Peak Reservoir, Barber Park and Marianne Williams Park. In addition, residents can enjoy Boise’s acclaimed Shakespeare Festival, concerts and events at the Botanical Gardens, local favorite Lucky 13 and a soon-to-come coffee shop are just a short bike ride away! Bown Crossing is also close as are great schools and a fabulous new Library!
By Bonnie Way Snider
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