Ever wonder what your real estate agent is really thinking? Here are the five things that we hope to instill in every client:

  1. Not all $200,000 homes cost the same! Instead of thinking about your budget in terms of the sales price, consider the amount you’ll pay monthly. A home’s affordability can be greatly affected by real estate taxes, which can vary widely in our region. Similarly, homeowners’ association fees (if applicable) can influence your budget. Be sure to use EveryHome’s Closing Cost Calculator or ask your agent or lender for monthly payment information.

5 things your realtor wishes you knew

Stephanie Newcomb’s great clients in front of their pretty new home!

  1. We all want a great deal on our new home, and we firmly believe that the best way to do this is to cooperate and work together with the seller and the seller’s agent. Instead of having a “winner” and a “loser” in real estate, EveryHome works hard to ensure that both buyer and seller are satisfied with the terms of the agreement. We’ve all seen the reality television real estate shows where men in suits bicker and fight about fancy homes, and we’re proud to say that isn’t us! We have fun, respect all parties involved, and build lasting relationships with our clients and other industry professionals. (Karma is real!)

5 things your realtor wishes you knew

EveryHome’s newest listing at 403 Devon Ct in Montgomeryville

  1. Home inspection reports are inherently scary. There simply isn’t another way around it. The report is typically a 10-50 page document listing all of the problems and issues with the home, and it can be a nerve-wracking experience to thumb through and learn about all of the problems with the biggest purchase of your life. Every house has its set of issues unfortunately, but we’re typically able to remedy most concerns by working together with the seller to provide some credit for any issues or have repairs completed prior to settlement.
  1. Teal carpet and icky wallpaper can be changed; the school district cannot. Many buyers are only interested in move-in ready homes, and who can blame them? If your budget allows for a beautiful home in a great location, we completely understand wanting to unpack your bags and not have to change a thing. However, keep in mind that some aesthetic changes are easy and even affordable!  The location of your new home, however, cannot be changed. Research the local school district (which is now easy to do on EveryHome.com!) and heavily consider the neighborhood and commute to work, family, shopping, and eateries.

5 things your realtor wishes you knew

Congratulations to Jen Kuznits’ newest happy homeowners!

  1. Not all real estate websites are created equal. Unfortunately, we often have clients ask to tour homes that are marked as being “For Sale” on popular websites like Trulia and Zillow…only to discover that the home went under contract weeks ago. Heartbreaking! Our advice? Stick to EveryHome.com! We offer the most reliable information on an easy-to-navigate website.