1. The Laurel Highlands encompasses three different counties and three different Multiple Listing Systems ( MLS ). The best way to see what is on the market in these different MLS systems is to use Realtor.com, which picks up all active listings in all three MLS systems. Search by zip and price for the properties you are interested in. Narrow your search by bedrooms and baths if necessary. The most common search areas by zip are Champion/ 7 Springs, 15622, Hidden Valley, 15502, Somerset, 15501, Donegal, 15628, Ligonier, 15658, Rector, 15677, Acme/ Bear Rocks, 15610, and Mt. Pleasant, 15666.
2. Get on our e-flash which will e-mail you every time a new property you are interested in comes on the market. Also, subscribe to our market reports and area updates which will give you a current feel for the market in general, timing, buyer activity, and new events which will affect real estate in the area. E-mail us to get on our e-list or check out the market reports on Realtor.com in the above zips. Our current market report is on this site. Just e-mail rwagner@topproducer.com for these valuable and FREE REPORTS.
3. Align yourself with a working buyers or listing agent that knows the area. If I were buying in this area my buyers agent would have the ABR (Accredited Buyers Representive), have been in the market place for at least 2 years, and transact at least 10 resort properties per year. If you are a buyer I do not suggest dealing with a sellers agent, who will not be representing you but will represent the seller, or a dual agent, who is a listing agent who is trying to sell their own listing. An agent in dual agency cannot represent you fully but can only transact the deal. A good buyers agent will know the past solds for properties that you are interested in and also know the FSBO's in the area and will know the pitfalls and problems with certain properties and advise you of such. If I were listing my property my agent would have a CRS (Certified Real-estate Specialists) designation, have been in the market place for at least 2 years, have an enhanced Realtor.com package, do visual tours as most resort buyers are shopping the internet first, and sold at least 10 resort properties per year. I would not suggest agents who are locked into just selling one resort, as their buyer pool is limited to that resort. Get someone who sells the area with a greater buyer pool.
4. Know exactly what you want and need. Don't say you are interested in property in the Laurel Highlands, as the range goes from $60K cabins that need help to $1M multi home estates. Know how many bedrooms, baths, location, availability, and work you will tolerate for your second home. Pay a premium for a resort condo and everything is taken care of for you. Get a better deal off the hill and cut grass on the weekend. It is all up to you, but you should know before you shop.
5.Research, research, and research until you know this market as good as the pros who work it. Pick an established Realtor who is successful in the market and stick with them. When the right time for you to buy or sell comes, act decisively and go for it fully.
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