Buyer Resources

Free MLS Search tools that you can personalize

The Buyer's search usually begins with looking at MLS Listings. First question is what should you use? Some search engines, such as Zillow and Truila, are not accessing the MLS database directly. Rather they search the web for listings on others websites. Some brokerage sites only show their listings or force you to hunt for the listings. I provide my clients with two options that both provide up-to-date listing information from our local MLS association.

First, is the MLS Search provided here on my website. This is one of the best MLS search tools that I could find for my clients. The listings are updated several times a day with extracts directly from MLS. An important feature is that you can create multiple "Saved Searches" to help you analyze and monitor different options. You can be notified of new listings the day they come on the market. You can also click the request information button which will notify me via email for a quick response. All of this with no annoying advertising.

Secondly, I can arrange a Personal Portal into the MLS database. This gives you the most direct and fastest access to virtually all the data within the MLS database. I set-up highly defined searches, same as Realtors use, for you to access. You receive email notifications as they occur, daily or monthly - you pick. The best feature is that you can "tag" listings as Favorites, Possibles or Discards that enable you to create and manage a primary and secondary short list. A great tool for when you get really serious about your home search.

Market value and offer price assessments

Is the list price reasonable? What is the current market value of the home? What do you think we could get it for? What should our offer price be? These are the questions when you consider making an offer.

First, I provide you with a market comparable report that shows active listings, pending sales and recent closed sales for similar properties in the area. This involves researching each listing for comparable neighborhoods, street locations, schools, extent of remodeling, landscaping and of course features. While this doesn't provide a specific number, it does narrow the range of reasonable market prices. As a bonus, I can provide you access to the actual listing information and pictures of the comparable listings via the Personal MLS Portal.

Secondly, I apply my extensive real estate experience and knowledge of the local market to provide you with a professional opinion based on the specific circumstances. Every offer and transaction is unique to the property, the Sellers and you the Buyers. I explain to you how all these factors play into the offer price and negotiations. Ultimately, it is your decision and I do everything possible to help you understand every aspect of the offer.

Contract negotiations and the winning offer

I work hard to "sell" your offer to the Sellers and the Listing Agent. That means I sell you as the best people to assuming responsibilty for the Seller's home. That I show how the purchase agreement being offered is complete in everyway. I stress my reputation for professionalism that gives them assurance that the transaction will go smoothly and any issues resolved quickly. Basically, that you and I are the best Buyers and Buyers Agent that they could ask for.

That leaves price as the key remaining aspect of the offer. Most Sellers don't take the highest offer due to the importance of the Buyers and the Buyer's Agent. Having successfully negotiated over 150 transactions, I rely on experience, intuition to maximize the chances of achieving your objectives while minimizing the price required to get into contract. A very dynamic process that you will be involved in every step of the way.

Escrow - its not over until you have the keys

There are a lot of steps and moving parts during the escrow period that require a lot of time and energy. We will be working close together.

Inspections - you usually have 7-14 days to remove your inspection contingency. That means you need to order and complete pest, property and any other inspections quickly. I typically order the inspections and arrange to provide them access to the property.

Financing - you usually have 17 days to remove your financing and appraisal contingencies. Need to move quickly with your lender as they require extensive paperwork and require time to complete their approval process.

Special Requests - not unusal for special requests by either the Buyer or the Seller for various reasons. Buyers may want a contractor to do an estimate, Sellers may need extra time to move. Whatever it may be, I work with the Listing Agent to do everything possible to help everyone make this stressful time as easy as possible.

Closed - I am still here for you

I am always available to help, even after the close of escrow. I can provide introductions to various contractors, answer home ownership questions, you name it. After working so closely together to find a home and buy it, I consider you a personal friend.

I look forward to working with you and your family.