Wednesday, December 4, 2013

The Art of Negotiations

Just completed my second home inspection.  Wondering if these will always cause me to panick? The first one ended badly I have hope for this one but it's going to require skillful negotiations!

I will tell you straight up that I am not a big fan of older homes but would seriously limit myself if I avoided them. Updating an older home can help you get under contract quicker but it is like giving a facelift when what you really might need is a stint or worse open heart surgery!

Over the years codes and regulations change, typically for the better. These changes are meant to make our homes safer. The problem Buyers/Sellers encounter is that these older homes are going to be inspected and issues ARE going to be found.  Some may be minor but there are some issues that can mean major money.

Lets face it TRRs can make or break the deal for both Buyers and Sellers.  You have Sellers who have their "bottom line" to look out for and then you have Buyers who are using mortgage products that determine whether a loan will be made on properties based on the condition of the home and most Buyers have limited funds.

So here's to skillful negotiations...may the odds forever be in my favor!

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Relationship Driven

Many people think Realtors have such an easy job--we just drive around in our little cars with our Keller Williams license plates and show people houses.  Well, that's part of it (the easy part)!

The more difficult and challenging aspect begins once there is a contract.  We are dealing with other realtors, mortgage lenders, title companies, inspectors, etc.  With this many parties, you are bound to have different personalities.  Unfortunately not everyone shares the same level of professionalism...and this can make for a stressful situation.  My role is to make the transaction as smooth as possible for my Buyer or Seller.

For me, a successful real estate transactions is not just one that results in closing.  I measure my success according to the ability in which I handled the transaction.  Was I professional, understanding, and courteous to all parties?  Did I act as though I am paycheck driven or relationship driven?  When I leave the closing table I want all parties involved to remember me...favorably.

Friday, November 15, 2013

Road Trip!!

Shawnee is quite a little trek from Piedmont BUT this Realtor goes where the Buyer's want! So in the past week I've made the drive out to Shawnee twice. Spent most of Saturday with my Buyer and her mother and two sisters. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with these lovely ladies; I love the closeness of this family. Again I say, it's not really fair to call what I do "work"!

So after touring seven homes on Saturday, the search was narrowed to two.  Upon being "dad approved" and canvassing the neighborhood to speak with current residents as to its safety the Buyer has chosen a property and offer was submitted. I'm praying, crossing my fingers and holding my mouth just right in the hopes we get under contract!

I have faith that in the end this Buyer will end up with a great home somewhere...in Shawnee. I just wonder how many more road trips I'll have to make to get this deal done!

Friday, November 8, 2013

Back and Reinvented!!

     I cannot believe it has been four years since my last blog, so much has changed since then.  One of the most significant being my career.  After years of "punching the proverbial time clock" I found myself unemployed and able to take the time and really assess what I wanted to do with my life.

     With lots of encouragement from my husband, family and close friends I decided to embark on a career in real estate.  I spent several months taking online classes and in May of this year I passed the Oklahoma state exam and in July became a licensed Realtor!

      I joined Keller Williams Realty one of the largest real estate companies in North America because of their dedicated leadership and extensive training.  I have completed the post-licensing course and have embarked on my journey.

     As I go through the world of showings, offers, counteroffers, inspections, TRRs and closings, there will no doubt be ups and downs;  but a fun and crazy ride it will be...I invite you to come along!

Thursday, June 18, 2009

San Antonio in May







May was a busy time for us. The kids and I went to San Antonio for Memorial Day weekend and then 2 weeks later my father-in-law had open heart surgery, so we went back down. While there we had a great time with my best friend, Karen. She is the best and can host like nobody's business! Thanks again for "putting us up" all those days! I'm including a few photo's from both trips. Enjoy.