For most of my clients, the process works like this:
- Locate
- Investigate
- Negotiate
First we need to know what to look for, then we need to locate potential properties. Once located, we investigate. On site we walk the yard, look over the siding, windows, roof, chimney, view, landscaping then head inside. Layout, room sizes, condition of the finishes, age of appliances, water heater, furnace, needed updates or maintenance or lack thereof…everything is up for review. If there is sufficient interest, a second visit is planned and further investigation takes place before we return. Recent sales of similar homes in the area, how long on the market, other properties on the market, price adjustments, dollar amount Seller paid, were building permits pulled…all available information is compiled.
If this is “The House” and the goal is to own, we discuss making an Offer to Purchase, the best way to get the Offer accepted and what will be expected when that happens. Earnest money, Home Inspection: who inspects and when, do we need well & septic inspections, Radon testing; timelines and deadlines, strategies, dealbreakers, walk-aways, Plan B.
On paper, the process is simple: Write an Offer. It is accepted or countered, occasionally rejected. In practice, it is usually much more complicated.
Comments and feedback from previous clients most often include praise for my objectivity, patience and counsel during what can be a stressful time. More than one homeowner has thanked me for talking them OUT of the purchase of a particular property which in hindsight would have been less than ideal. I strive to make each of my clients feel like my only client. As a sole proprietor, my business plan is simple: Earn Referrals from Satisfied Clients.