Why Should You Use An Agent That Knows The Market...

...Not an Agent That You Know?

So, let me get that WHOLE question out again...

Why Should You Use An Agent That Knows The Market

and NOT an Agent That You Know?

Whether you are a real estate agent reading this, or a Buyer or Seller reading this, most of the subjects I write (blog) about are because someone wants, or needs information. 

Maybe it's about a particular Midtown Atlanta condo building. 

Maybe it's about what is going up on that vacant lot next door.

Maybe it's about closing costs and what the Buyer or Seller might be paying for. 

Or...it's a question that is asked. 

In this case, it's a question asked....NOT by the Buyer or the Seller but by the BUYERS AGENT!!!

This is a Buyer's agent that from the first call, I knew had not a clue about selling a condominium. But, hey, I represent my Seller and my job is to help them get THEIR HOME SOLD! So I've fielded numerous questions that I questioned myself. 

First off, my listing is in a building that is not easy to show. You are one really, really wise agent to preview first, and know your way around the complex. Otherwise, you are simply the blind leading the blind in knowing where things are. But, this agent came along with their Buyer even though the Agent had never shown in the building. Let alone, I don't think had even been in the AREA where my condo listing is located. Ok, we'll work through that. 

Now, we have spent THREE days negotiating over two dates:

• Due Diligence -- the time allowed for the Buyer to make inspections, review condo docs, etc.
• Appraisal Contingency -- the time allowed for the Buyers' lender to order an appraisal, get it back, review it, and determine if it meets, or exceeds the contract price...or does not. 

The Buyer's Agent asked for 12 days of DD...I said Seven (7). Get your ducks in a row and be ready for yoru inspection. I have all the other documentation you will want/need. Buyers' Agent has asked for more days because of the holiday ---the holiday that has PASSED and we are not even Under Contract. 

The Appraisal Contingency...Agent wanted 21 days. I said 15. Response was Lender cannot get it done in 15 days. My response...find a new Lender that can. I'm the only listing in the building. I've had multiple showings in the matter of a couple days. I'm not taking my Seller off the market for 21 days while you figure things out. I know the building. I know exactly what the exact same floor plans sold for some 3 weeks ago. If your lender/buyer get a bogus appraisal, we have no intention of taking it, or you holding us hostage for 21 days. 

We've worked it all out. 

Until tonight. Text message from Buyer's Agent:

"As I'm going over the Seller's Disclosure, it says the HOA fees are $362.75 per month. I thought when we spoke that is was $350-375 ANNUALLY. Could you please clarify which it is please?" 

I know condos, and I know HOA fees are monthly, not annual, and certainly not $375 PER YEAR! 

I've been looking at mountain property in North Georgia and North Carolina. I've just read enough on listings to know, you need to have a septic tank permit for the size of house you want to build. In otherwords, you don't go build a 3 bedroom 3 bath on a lot, or land, that has a 2/2 septic permit. 

If I'm going to buy mountain property, I'm going to find an agent that knows mountain property. 

If I'm going to buy a condo, I'm going to find an agent that knows condos.

I have a great real estate friend that sells lake property. I'd never dream of trying to sell a lake front home and try to know the in's and out's of seawalls, and docks, and ducks and more. She will get my referrals so I know my Buyer will get the best knowledge and representation they deserve.

Why Should You Use An Agent That Knows The Market

and NOT an Agent That You Know?