There are a lot of misconceptions about real estate agents. From the outside, it looks like it’s all fun and games – flexible hours, fancy cars, and impressive incomes. And truthfully, it is fun; that’s why we’re real estate agents in the first place. But the reality of what goes on behind the scenes is a lot more complicated.
We’re here to serve you and hopefully provide the best experience possible – but there are a few things we wish our clients knew.
- Your phone calls and emails don’t bother us. Seriously. Most clients seemed concerned that they’re bothering us by calling and asking about a specific property. But truthfully, we feel privileged that of all the real estate agents you could’ve chosen, you entrusted this monumental experience to us.
- The internet isn’t the end-all-be-all. We would like to stress that the internet does not know everything. Real estate is more art than science and the algorithm of internet real estate sites can’t account for all the nuances of a property, such as proximity to busy roads, dangerous topography, lack of backyard and more.
- Switching jobs, quitting your job or accepting a promotion can affect your ability to secure a loan. It may seem like a good idea to accept a promotion or raise, but the transition may offset the required job history paperwork, resulting in major delays and headache. And until you have the keys in hand, never quit your job.
- Experience a day (and night) in the neighborhood. A hospital nearby means sirens. A school nearby means loud kids and school bells. Consider visiting the neighborhood during the day and evening – go for a walk with your kids and dog; go to the local coffee shop. Get a feel for the area firsthand.
- Closing at the end of the month may result in fewer upfront costs. Closing at the beginning of the month means you will be responsible for prepaying interest for the remainder of the month. So if you close on Sept. 1, you will be charged for 28 days of interest up front. But if you close on Sept. 27, you will only be charged for two.
- View a home as soon as it hits the market to get into your dream home faster. Many sellers have offer review days and often, it may take you a while to put a competitive home offer together. So in a competitive market, you have to move fast.
- Big purchases can affect your loan. Big purchases like furniture or appliances purchased with credit can lower your credit score, and possibly negatively impact your debt-to-income ratio. Cash purchases result in lower reserves, which the bank may view negatively as they determine if your home purchase will be a hardship.
- Many improvements to a home can’t be seen from the outside. Sure, everyone can appreciate a fresh coat of paint or a new kitchen but there are other amenities you should factor, too. Granted, insulation and newer, more energy efficient HVAC systems may not be exciting but they may qualify you for rebates and incentives.
- Multiple parties involved means possible delays and obstacles. Remember that if the home is occupied, that means its occupants are likely in the midst of a life-changing move, too. The seller may be selling their home while purchasing another – and a delay in their purchase may mean a delay in yours.
- This can be fun! We get it – the thought of moving can be overwhelming. But a new home marks the start of a new, exciting chapter in your life. With the right real estate team supporting you, you should feel free to relax and try to enjoy the experience – and leave the not-so-fun stuff to your real estate agent. It’s what we’re here for!
At DeLeon Sheffield Company, we’re invested in you and your real estate journey. Buying or selling real estate takes time – you may contact us more than your friends and family during the process – so we are committed to making our partnership as seamless, effortless and fun as possible.
Because at DeLeon Sheffield Company, ‘We’re More Than Realty; We’re Family.’
