As a Professional in the Real Estate Industry, there are 13 problems, in my opinion, that affect the Wasilla Marketplace.
1. MAKE SURE YOU ARE REPRESENTED! Seek out your own representation as opposed to working with the listing agent (the name on the sign).
2. IF YOU ARE NOT HAPPY WITH YOUR LICENSEE – You as the consumer have a right to terminate that relationship on the spot.
3. CHARGING FOR SERVICES – If a licensee tries to charge you for their services in addition to the commission being paid by the Seller, this could put you in a financial hardship and stop you from purchasing the home of your dreams. Find this out up front and make the best informed decision.
4. LACK OF EXPERIENCE – Question your agent, how many years have they been in the business? How many transactions do they do a year? Read their online reviews, and the reputation of their direct counterparts.
5. EDUCATING YOU AS THE CONSUMER – If your licensee doesn’t know the paperwork and effectively be able to explain to you what you are signing you may want to shop around!
6. DO NOT FEEL PRESSURED – follow your gut instinct when it comes to putting your signature on any document, as it may not be in “your” best interest.
7. FEEL COMFORTABLE – whether your putting an offer together or selling a home or piece of property. We as Licensees cannot dictate what you offer or what the Seller accepts. Be educated.
8. WELL & SEPTIC – pay attention to the gallons per minute, you don’t want to have a well that runs dry.
Water Quality provides E-Coli and Coliform testing. If you have allergies you may want to consider a PIWA test informing you of all the impurities in the water and the level counts. How old is the septic system, will it need replacing soon? Consider this when making your offer.
9. ASK QUESTIONS – on everything, even if you are a seasoned consumer, as the questions to make the best informed decision.
10. OFFER PRICE – Get educated…after all it is your mortgage, your financial obligation.
11. LOAN PROGRAMS – An educated licensee will have knowledge of the possible loan programs that are available to you. They can suggest you mention to your LENDER OF CHOICE, and should be able to provide you with basic down payment, closing costs, estimated payments, taxes and explain any tax benefits available through the governing authority.
12. HOME INSPECTIONS – You as the consumer select your inspector, to be approved by the Sellers.
DO NOT let your licensee dictate who to use.
13. WORK WITH A SEASONED PROFESSIONAL – Afterall, with the time in the industry, they have a vested interest in doing what is right! Seek out one that holds HONESTY, INTEGRITY and ETHICS to a high standard and you will make the best informed decision all the way around.