As Published in The Seattle Times/ New Homes Saturday
by Al Doyle
Several years ago I was shopping for a new home and happened onto an open house that caught me eye. There I met an agent with whom I would have a relationship for at least two decades so far. I have bought from her. Sold with her. And referred her to numerous friends. I learned there is real value brought to the table by a highly motivated, well-schooled real estate agent. Today, I am in contact with dozens of top quality agents who are dedicated to one homebuilder or one community. This group of New Home Professionals has earned my highest respect based on their knowledge of product and process as well as their unwavering commitment to making sure that the home buyer is well represented in the transaction. Today a New Home Professional, when working for any of the major new home builders is a consummate professional. These agents are given hours and hours of training, required to know their homes inside and out. They know financing options. They understand what it takes to help a home buyer get exactly what they want. The attribute that impresses me the most is their commitment to their buyer’s needs. If you’re in the market for a new home (and today would be a good day to start looking) I suggested you make friends with the agents, New Home Professionals, you meet along the way. Get to know them. Understand that they are pros who are paid to help you find what you need. Be as forthcoming with them as you are comfortable with. Let them know your price ranges and budgets. Share about a home you might have to sell. Ask them to assist you on finding out how much home you can comfortably finance. When you give the New Home Professional the information they need, stand back and expect exceptional results. Be sure you describe your tastes, your lifestyle, special needs and commuting habits. This way the New Home Professional can match you up with a home that is just right for you. Where the extra value really kicks in is during the process of closing the home sale. Your agent can walk you through the process, do the needed follow-up and make sure all the varied parties from builder to lender to appraiser to closing agent stay on track. That alone provides huge peace of mind you need to sleep like a baby.
By the way, if you happen to be a New Home Professional reading this message, I want to remind you of the Tribute Awards of The New Home Council. These annual rewards are designed to recognize those agents who go above and beyond in taking care of their new home customers. If you, as an agent or manager, would like to nominate one of your peers, visit www.thenewhomecouncil.com for details. It’s quite simple and can really encourage and reward the professionalism of the entire industry.
New, for those who are thinking this might be the right time to buy a new home, my advice is start with the Saturday paper, and get out there today and start meeting some New Home professionals it’s a great way to make a new friend and end up in a new home.