Finding the right real estate partner is like finding a shoe that fits. Since no two real estate agents are the same, it can be hard finding a someone that is right for you. To help home buyers expedite their path to homeownership, J.Christopher Real Estate Group would like to share a few things you should consider when choosing a realtor.

“Experience is an important factor to consider when choosing a realtor, but it shouldn’t be the driving reason home buyers select an agent,” said Jarrod C. Lewis, owner of J.Christopher Real Estate Group. “Other qualities can be just as important in order to deliver a positive experience.”

One of the most important qualities realtors should have is being honest and ethical, according to a Forbes council. Other non-quantifiable aspects such as the demeanor and reputation of an agent can be important elements in determining whether a realtor is ‘right for you,’ Lewis said.

After thoroughly reviewing expert commentary about this topic, J.Christopher Real Estate Group would like to share things you should look for in your next real estate agent:

Find a realtor that is charismatic

A realtor that has charm will likely be able to influence negotiations. This is an important characteristic to have because it could have an influence on how much you pay for a home.

Learn about their unique real estate experiences

While the length of experience in buying and selling homes is important, home buyers should ask their realtors about unique scenarios they have dealt with and the outcome of those scenarios.

Inquire about their resources and connections

Home buyers should feel confident that their realtor can handle any issue that may arise. One way to do this is by asking an agent about their real estate team and professional network. By asking about their connections, home buyers can relax knowing their realtor can rely on the varied experiences of others to resolve issues that may occur.

Test a realtor’s knowledge of an area

Home buyers should generally pick a realtor that is knowledgeable of specific regions because they will be better suited to match a client with a home they really want. Agents that only sell locally or across the country may not be able to provide buyers with essential information they may need.

Research their professional awards

A professional designation from a national organization typically means a realtor adheres to higher standards and that they have built a solid reputation for customer satisfaction.

Home buyers or sellers looking to make big moves in 2018 can rest assured that they will find these attributes and qualities at J.Christopher Real Estate Group. To get in touch with an agent and take one step closer to acquiring your dream home, call us at 401-830-6906.

 

 

 

Whether you are interested in moving into a bigger space or would like to move into a nicer neighborhood, it can be challenging to start the home buying process if you already own a home. As you search through listings for your next dream home, J.Christopher Real Estate Group would like to share a few strategies that can help you buy and sell a home at the same time.

“Buying a new home while currently being a homeowner is definitely like ‘being stuck between a rock and a hard place,’” said Jarrod C. Lewis, owner of J.Christopher Real Estate Group.

One of the main concerns homeowners have is the thought of being responsible for two mortgages, according to real estate experts. “Having one mortgage can be expensive enough and throwing a second one into the mix could discourage anyone from seeking another property, but it is a real possibility for those willing to engage the real estate market,” Lewis said.

With homes selling at record rates, here are some strategies to help home buyers secure another home before it is snatched up.

Make an offer with a sale and settlement contingency

Homeowners interested in buying another home can make an offer on that property with a sale and settlement contingency. This means you only agree to buy the home on the condition that you are able to sell your current home.

Buy first, sell or rent your other home later

If home buyers are in a financially secure position, they can try to finance their next property and worry about selling their first home at a later time. The drawback to this strategy is that homeowners may feel rushed to sell their home quickly and could end up taking an offer that is lower than market value. An alternative solution might be to rent out the first property and use the rental income to pay the mortgage, which could help homeowners build equity or possibly mark the beginning of a real estate portfolio.

Apply for a HELOC or bridge loan

Applying for a HELOC or bridge loan is not for everyone, but under the right circumstances you could be living in your dream home sooner than you think. This loan type allows buyers to borrow a line of credit based on the amount of equity available in their first home, which is used as a collateral. Home buyers typically use some of the credit for the down payment of the second home and other fees. Once buyers have moved into their new home, home buyers can pay back the loan in full by selling their first home. After all debts are settled, home buyers may receive money from whatever is left over from the sale.

These are just some strategies homeowners have used to buy a move-up home. While purchasing a better home may appear complex, time-consuming, or stressful, a real estate agent from J.Christopher Real Estate Group can help make your buying experience more pleasant. If you are planning on making a move, call us at 401-830-6906 to start the process today.