"How many homes should I be looking at?" is a question I am often asked by first time home buyers when we sit down for the initial consult. I have read many studies on the topic and find the average consumer begins clicking through homes on the net around 12 to 18 months before their date of closing! This is more of an information gathering stage regarding age of homes in certain parts of town and nearby parks or schools.
Between 6 and 8 months out the average home buyer may begin calling on signs or even visiting open houses while driving neighborhoods looking for signs. I have found that buyers will see a sign and then jot down the address so they can look it up later on their favorite website. By 4 months a buyer will be choosing an agent and getting the pre-approval process started. This is where it gets tricky....
Upon initial contact or recomendation I will sit down for a free, no-obligation, first time buyer needs analysis and consultation. This takes about an hour and I am available to answer any questions and provide a detailed outline of what to expect over the following 4 months preceeding their closing and move. With the informatin exchanged at that meeting we can hone it down to about 35 to 40 homes on their auto email notification I set up directly in the Multiple Listing System. Upon review there are about 9 to 12 "favorites" and possibly their next home!
When working with an agent who knows this market and understands hard work as well as customer service your experience will be a breeze. Make sure to choose wisely when picking a buyer's agent, this person is the one professional you will be counting on to make your dreams a reality. Good luck and happy house hunting!
Matthew Johnson
www.tjreg.com
The Johnson Real Estate Group serves Woodbury, Oakdale, Cottage Grove, and the entire Twin Cities Area including Western Wisconsin! We are dedicated to providing a superior experience when buying or selling your Twin Cities home! Contact us at www.tjreg.com to find out more.
Comments (1)Subscribe to CommentsComment