When should I talk to a real estate an agent?
Right away! The home doesn’t have to go on the market immediately when you hire a REALTOR®. Sellers often benefit by the expertise a real estate agent can provide on suggested renovations, repairs, and timing. Don’t wander around in circles while trying to decide what to do. A good realtor will answer all your questions and help you prepare the home to achieve your goals.
Where is your office?
My office is located just north of Century Ave on Mapleton Ave in Bismarck. We can meet anywhere including your home, your favorite coffee shop or brewery or my office. We can meet at the most convenient location for you. With sellers, I will need to do a walkthrough of your home at some point so our first meeting may be at your home.
How will you communicate and how often?
Providing a high level of customer service is not negotiable… and effective communication is part of my process. Clients have access to my personal phone and I will always make time to answer questions, discuss strategy or any concerns. While preparing your home and until the home is under contract we may be in touch daily. After your home is under contract, I provide weekly updates to keep you informed along the way.
Would you offer an ‘option to cancel’ in the contract?
Yes definitely. Life happens and situations may change. If a client wishes to end a contract earlier than anticipated we can negotiate an early cancellation of the listing contract.
How many years of experience do you have?
As a REALTOR®, I have 6 years of experience. Part of that time was in the very competitive Twin Cities market which helped me gain a lot of experience in all types of residential homes inlcluding single family, condos, townhomes, and multifamily. I have 15+ years of experience working in the advertising industry which is also a huge benefit to my clients.
How much does it cost to hire you to help me sell a home?
When it's time for you to sell, my sellers pay a professional fee based upon the sale price of the home. Each situation is unique depending on what expenses I will cover. Part of the fee is also used to pay the buyer’s agent.
Do you do your own photography?
It depends! I prefer to hire the best professional photography company and I cover the cost as part of my commission. Buyers are making a decision about your home from your online presence and it is very important to have excellent photographs. If they are not available I may do the photos myself. Easy, since my former career was in commercial photography.
When is the best time to sell a home?
Every real estate market is different, therefore, the best time to sell a home will be different. In Bismarck and Mandan, there tends to be more transactions in spring and early summer. With our winter weather more people prefer to move in the summer or when school is not in session so there are more transactions during the summer months.
Do you provide a list of what we need to do to get ready to sell the home?
I have a very thorough list. However, I do even more than provide a list…I offer hands on styling and staging. I will spend actual time with you in the home helping you prepare and stage the home. First, we will do a consultation and I will create a room by room staging and home styling plan. Then, I will work with you to accomplish the most important items on the list so that your home is positioned to get the highest price possible in the most cost effective ways.
What are the components of the comparative market analysis that you use to arrive at the estimated list price?
My analysis includes research on similar homes that have sold in the last six months and homes that are currently under contract. I regularly preview properties to understand the market and will do an in depth look at your neighborhood so we know exaclty how to price your home competively. Each home is unique, I do additional research based on your price point as well so you understand average days on the market, average price per square foot and other metrics. My analysis will show the price range for actual homes sold in your location and the condition of your home will determine what a buyer is willing to pay for your home.