Learn 5 good reasons why you need to have a buyer consultation.
One of the most critical steps in the home-buying process is the initial buyer consultation. For some, it may just be another meeting, but a successful consultation creates a strong partnership between you and your agent. Let me explain why:
1. Get to know your agent. A buyer consultation gives you the chance to get to know your Realtor. You can ask questions to understand their personality and learn what motivates them. I usually invite new buyers to meet over coffee just to chat and allow them to ask tough questions like, “What’s in it for me?" and “How will you help me find my dream home?”
2. Understand the buying process. A good realtor will thoroughly explain the buying process. It involves many steps, from securing financing to closing the deal. This ensures you understand what to expect at each stage, even before you begin your home search. This ensures that you’re comfortable and confident every step of the way.
We are a team, and I want you to tell me your expectations, including how you want to communicate
3. Financing. Before looking at homes, you need to be financially ready. It's important to discuss getting pre-qualified or pre-approved for a loan and having proof of funds. We can’t make an offer on a house without demonstrating to home sellers that you are serious and capable of purchasing their property.
4. Reviewing current market conditions. A solid understanding of the current market allows us to create an effective strategy. I wouldn’t advise using the same approach for an offer on a house that has been on the market for two months as you would for a home that just became available this weekend. Sellers' motivations and urgency vary, and it's important to consider market conditions for each opportunity.
5. Setting expectations. One of the most important parts of the consultation is setting expectations for our working relationship. We are a team, and I want you to tell me your expectations, including how you want to communicate—whether through texts, phone calls, emails, videos, or voice memos. And I’ll do the same for you. If we’re looking at a house that requires a quick decision, I need to be able to count on you to answer your phone and vice versa.
If you or anyone you know is looking for a house, I'm looking for five new families to help in August. If you'd like to be one of those first five, let me know. Send me a private message or call me at (505) 615-8619. A well-informed buyer is a confident buyer.