There are good surprises….and THEN….there are not
It’s fun to hear new homeowner’s joyful surprise about the wildlife, the sunrises, the amount of snow or how they love this great community….
However, comments on our Nextdoor neighborhood website, would indicate some new homeowners are surprised by certain other things, and not in a good way!
I imagine this is because they were not informed or have unrealistic expectations about mountain living.
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One way to minimize the chance of unnecessary surprise is to enlist the help of a local real estate agent who will tell buyers what they need to know about living in a certain area- before they buy.
“Geographic competence” is the industry term, and it is an important factor to consider when selecting an agent.
I do my best to AVOID as many surprises as possible, so I inform my buyer clients of everything I can think of that they might need or want to know about living here.
A Realtor ® who is familiar with the area, and understands HOA rules or regulations, or the value of a great view, or knows about septic systems, wells, cisterns and vaults which are prevalent in mountain communities, for example, will be the best person to assist you in buying and selling mountain property. In a large metropolitan area, or a beach community buyer/seller concerns would be totally different.
Don’t be afraid to ask an agent questions about their area knowledge and experience.
Ask questions like:
Is your office located in this area? If not, ask if they specialize in the area or in the specific neighborhood you are buying or selling in.
Ask how long they have lived in the area and how long they have they been selling (your choice) of real estate. (With the help and guidance of their local broker, a new agent can possess geographic competence, so in that case ask about their broker’s area of expertise.)
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Our mountain properties are unique- every community/town is different. You want to choose an agent that will best represent you when buying or selling and geographic competence is key.
There are good surprises….and THEN….there are not.
You wouldn't call Disneyland to tour the Grand Canyon.....so,
Unless you like surprises, ask the questions, it will serve you well in all of your real estate transactions!
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Mary Douglas, your Mountain Broker-Associate and REALTOR®
United Country Ponderosa Realty, Red Feather Lakes, CO
www.marydouglas-redfeatherlakes.net
970-231-5756 phone or text- Email: mary@redfeatherlakes.com
I specialize in the Red Feather Lakes and Livermore area, Fox Acres, Crystal Lakes and Glacier View Meadows Subdivisions, when you want to buy or sell your mountain home, call me!
The information contained in Mary’s blog is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and the opinions and views expressed in these articles are solely those of the author.
I write about my area in Colorado; Law, Custom & Procedure vary from State to State and even within the State.
REAL ESTATE IS LOCAL. Always consult with your LOCAL Real Estate Professional.
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