Whenever I work with Buyers I give them, not only information from the MLS, but information from the Public Record.
Making an informed decision is based on being informed.
I am currently working with an Investor from back east and he is looking for specific properties that he can flip for a profit. Many of these types of properties can be found in the MLS. A good portion of those are either Foreclosures, Short Sales or Distressed properties.
The Public Record is also an invaluable trove of information.
Back in the day, I would have had to go down to the County Courthouse to get information on subject properties. (There is still some, that may require a trip down there, but not as much today).
With the County Records online, I can find information on almost anything, on any property in this County. Information is available, online, from the Treasurer, Assessor, Tax Authority as well as general basic information. If I need a plat map that hasn’t been scanned into the system, I’ll make a trip, as required.
This Investor has asked me first and foremost, why I was so nice, by not only conveying property information, but giving him the Archuleta County website address, without cost.
This is a two part question. The reason I am and do what I do is because I LOVE BEING A REALTOR®!, Secondly, the information on these specific websites are Public Record and if it doesn’t cost me a thing, why would I charge a Client? Apparently, he was used to being charged for some things that typically could be found in the Public Record. (including CMA’s from the MLS).
Not here.
Sure, I have access to several other websites, some not so well known and some not so easily accessible to the Public, but if it is something I can help an Investor with, or any Buyer, for that matter, I’ll pass that information along if it’s something that may enhance that Buyers ability to make an informed decision, all the better.
It’s just part of the Services I provide.
Mortgage Consultant, Right Trac Financial Group, Inc. NMLS # 2709 - Manchester, CT
Your Mortgage Consultant for Life
I bought a property to flip last month. The listing Realtor that showed the property indicated that there was city sewer. The problem was that the sewer pipe was going toward the back of the property. When questioned, she said, that is what the seller indicated.
A quick call show there was no city sewer, so the original offer indicated that we be allowed to do an inspection. Eventually she also checked and understood the error.
Nov 15, 2012 08:42 PM
EXIT Realty Advantage Pagosa, Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Pagosa Springs, CO
Joe ~ When I work with Buyers, I am adamant about them getting a Home Inspection. What previous owners say, to me, is speculation, heresay and innuendo. Facts are facts and yes not only an inspection but County Records can identify potential issues. Thanks for stopping by. :)
Nov 15, 2012 08:55 PM
Shaken...with a Twist 216.633.2092 - Euclid, OH
Lets shake things up at your home today!
Jon, I would do the same thing, why not........I think it speaks volumes of your integrity.
Nov 15, 2012 09:00 PM
Realty Associates - Boca Raton, FL
Luxury Prop Specialist Realty Associates
Many buyers know to check on their own and do. We urge buyers to trust but verify. We do the same.
Nov 15, 2012 09:08 PM
EXIT Realty Advantage Pagosa, Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Pagosa Springs, CO
Roger ~ Thanks. I know of a couple of Agents in this Town that will charge, just answering their phone, or so it seems. Giving Clients information to help them decide, without cost, is a no brainer for me. The end result is where I get paid for my time and services. Thanks for stopping by. :)
Erv ~ I concur. In this day of the "Information Age", not only are the majority of property searches done online, the Due Diligence of specific properties will go hand in hand. When I can provide more information that my Clients may not be privy to, that they could easily find online if they knew where to look, I'll either send them in that direction. If it's of Public Record, they will have that information at hand prior to any decision they make when pursuing a home. Thanks for stopping in. :)
Nov 15, 2012 09:49 PM
Sharon Lee's Virtual Assistance - Jonesborough, TN
Retired and loving life
Jon-My what big ears you have and beautiful piercing eyes and a bushy tail. Smiling.
Nov 15, 2012 10:00 PM
Referral Group Incorporated - East Brunswick, NJ
The Real Estate Whisperer Who Listens 732-715-1133
Good morning Jon. Funny how much is available with the tools we employ that used to require a very big commitment. Why not use what we have and share it. Good for you. Enjoy the day my friend.
Nov 15, 2012 10:02 PM
EXIT Realty Advantage Pagosa, Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Pagosa Springs, CO
Sharon ~ LOL... Like my new do??? Yeah, I'm in the process of getting a current pic. The other one was about 2 years old. My ears are longer and my tail is bushier or maybe my ears are getting bushier and my tail's getting longer???... ;) Smiling back... Thanks for visiting. :)
Sheila ~ Thanks. Everything I can give to my folks, from time to information, will come back. Thanks for commenting. Have a great day yourself and enjoy your weekend. :)
Nov 15, 2012 10:10 PM
MoonDancer Realty, Dillsboro,NC - Sylva, NC
GRI,IMSD-Taking the mystery out of real estate.
Jon, some buyers are huge analyzers and prefer to do some of this research on their own and are glad for the local county web address. Others would prefer the REALTOR do the work. Both are okay. I'm sure your buyers are grateful to you for your service.
Nov 17, 2012 08:44 PM
EXIT Realty Advantage Pagosa, Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Pagosa Springs, CO
Mona ~ That's so true. I've seen and worked with both. Like the saying goes, "6 one way, half a dozen the other". It works for me either way. Thanks for commenting. :)
Nov 18, 2012 07:30 PM
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