More tips for first-time home buyers
Holly King, an agent with Chamberlain Realty, said it’s important for “our local primary residential buyers” to be able to compete with people buying houses as investments. It “takes adapting and overcoming with a bit of additional intention,” she said. “At first it was interesting, but I’ve simply adapted to the market shift with resourcefulness and additional steps or creative approaches.” King had these tips for buyers:
• “I explain to the buyer before showings how the market is and what our approaches may entail and educate them on options to consider to make offers more attractive. So when that time comes, we know immediately what we’re doing so we are ready.”
•“Quick showing schedules! We need to see properties as quickly as they get listed.”
•“ALWAYS call/text the list agent to begin rapport and introduce myself and ask what that seller is looking for and most interested in besides cash.”
•“Write offers on the spot, include softer, quicker inspection time frames, seller’s choice of closing company, at times offering a gap appraisal or as-is, flexible (two choices of closing dates) and a local lender preapproval in hand.”
•“Follow up! I reach out again and let the list agent know we submitted an offer, we want it and review my offer’s details, plus let them know about my experience in the industry and my diligence and efforts to see to a quick and smooth transaction. Connection and rapport means a lot this year.”