Posts from January 2022

The Showing Process Explained: Tips to Help You Decide Whether or Not the Property Is a Fit!

For many buyers, stepping into that first house is when the home buying process starts to feel real and it can be a very exciting! 

The way the showing process will likely go is that you or your agent will identify a home or series of homes that are advertised online and meet your criteria. If you're interested in seeing the home in person, you'll reach out to your agent and they will schedule the showing with the listing agent. 

This is likely going to be your only opportunity to see the home before you decide whether or not you want to make an offer, so you want to be as thorough as possible while examining the home as a potential fit for you. This means that you'll want to be prepared. Here are a few tips to make sure you have the information you need:

1. You should ask your agent to provide the listing sheet on the property that details important specs on the home, as well the disclosures completed by the sellers discussing condition, and an aerial photo that shows the property lines. 
2. You'll want to mindful of the mechanicals, verifying heat and cooling sources, keeping an eye out for damage that is visible, and really taking the time to picture yourself in the home. Does the lay out work for you? If the house isn't a perfect fit, could a few changes here and there to make it work? 
3. You'll want to take this opportunity to ask your agent any questions you may have about the property, and express any concerns. Your agent should be able to walk you through different options that can address or alleviate the concerns you may be having. 

Here's the bottom line: this step in the process is about clarity. It's hard to know whether or not a home might be a fit for you without touring it in person. So be open, and ask questions! 

I hope you've found this information helpful!

Til next time,
Cassie Johnson
Key Realty - John Yoder Team

How You Search For Homes Matters! The Power of the MLS Explained

Look, we all use the big name, online platforms to look at homes online. They work fine for casual browsing or sharing properties with other people. But using them exclusively to search for your next home is holding you back. Why?

1. The information is often outdated. These platforms, many times, do not update when a property goes into contract. So you might be falling in love with a home that is no longer available.
2. The notification systems are unreliable. They are often not immediately notifying you of listings that meet your criteria.

This is why you need to ask your agent to set up a property search through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). The MLS is a database of every property being marketed to the public by real estate professionals, and it is far superior to other platforms for two big reasons:

1. The information is more detailed and more accurate. Agents themselves keep the listings updated, so you never have to wonder if the property you're seeing is still available. Also, there is more information available through the MLS like property disclosures and utility details. The more (and better) information you can receive upfront, the clearer and easier your decision becomes!
2. The notifications are immediate. As soon as a new listing that meets your criteria is posted (or a listing drops down into your price range), you'll receive an email or a text. We all know that in the 2022 market, time is of the essence. So the MLS-based property search will give you an edge over other buyers and get those properties in front of you immediately!

So we highly recommend that you discuss MLS-based property searches with your agent. The property search should work for you, not the other way around!

Feel free to contact us today to get your search started the right way. Our team would be happy to discuss your real estate goals!

Until next time,
Cassie Johnson
Key Realty - John Yoder Team