McNeill make sure buyer finds home that meets needs
Monica McNeill, a Realtor with RE/MAX Metro, has been in real estate for over 30 years, and has honed a couple of priorities, which her clients appreciate and has led to her being a consistent top producer and in the RE/ MAX Hall of Fame.
She also holds a master’s degree in business, which along with her three decades of experience provides her clients the confidence that she is prepared to assist them in one of the largest financial investments they will probably make.
When it comes to her priority list, one that is very important to her is she does not encourage her clients to buy more of a house than they can afford. She wants to make sure they will be able to cover any unexpected expenses, such as home repairs, property taxes, etc.
Therefore, she first meets with buyers to review the mortgage payment they are comfortable with, before moving forward.
“In this market, it is tempting to rush in and buy or overpay. So my job is to know the market, comparables, help guide buyers on what is a fair market value and to stay in their price range,” McNeill said.
Not all areas will sustain the value of a home down the road when a homeowner is ready to sell. This is where the Realtor comes in to guide the buyer in making the right offer on the right home, while still meeting the buyer’s wantlist, as much as possible.
“Realtor and buyer should be patient when making the decision to purchase a home. The process may take longer, but you end up with a happy buyer who appreciates your guidance,” McNeill said.
McNeill suggestions for sellers include updating and maintaining.
“Each year, check to see if exterior needs work, such as painting, replacing wood, etc., then consider taking care of these things,” McNeill said.
Also, check the interior of the house and update counters, cabinetry, and carpet if needed.
“I cannot emphasizing this enough. If the homeowner has been updating and maintaining the home, then when they are ready to sell a lot of expense and time will have been saved,” McNeill said.
McNeill helps sellers in numerous ways such as providing tips for each room and often bringing in a stager.
Many buyers are looking for an almost move-in ready home, so they can quickly settle in without a lot of repairs.
“Whatever sellers spend to update their home, more-than-likely they will receive back four-fold when the house sells,” McNeill said.
Also, for sellers, a priority for McNeill is to not overprice their home. A home that is updated and priced right is a winning combination and the home will sell quickly.
“My goal for every client is for them to be happy and have success with their transaction, and I work very hard to make that happen,” McNeill said.