Specializing In Lifestyle Transitions™
Marquesa A. Hobbs, CNE
An ERA Shields Real Estate Broker Associate | Realtor
®
5475 Tech Center Drive, Suite 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Office: 719.593.1000 | Mobile: 719.238.0330 MHobbs@erashields.com www.ColoradoHearthstone.com
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............................................ A career, professional Realtor®, not a side-job
Like any profession, real estate is impacted by a myriad of external influencers. Clients are counting on their Realtor® to know how those influencers will impact their home sale. Realtors who effectively serve clients in both Bear and Bull markets are committed to ongoing continuing Real Estate education, have strong business and marketing acumen, are continually aware and knowledgeable of economic factors, and who know how to effectively network.
Marquesa Hobbs, CNE Professional Real Estate Associations
Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) Certified Cartus Network Agent Military Relocation Specialist Certified USAA and Navy Federal Agent National Association of Realtors (NAR) Colorado Association of Realtors (CAR) Pikes Peak Association of Realtors (PPAR) Denver Metro Association of Realtors PPAR Leadership Academy Member Go Red For Women - Executive Leadership Graduate of the NINJA Sales Institute Certified Cartus Relocation Expert Tri~Lakes EDC Board & Chamber of Commerce S. Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce Senior Resource Council CASA Circle of Impact Member Business Administration/Marketing Degree Colorado Springs resident for 20+ years 30+ years experience in business development, sales & marketing Entrepreneur, Business Owner & Community Activist Married with 3 children + Foster/Adopt Family Enjoys hiking, yoga, and mountain biking
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............................................ Leadership Academy
Special Industry Awards, Designations & Achievements
Certified Negotiation Expert
ERA Real Estate Circle of Excellence
Community Leadership & Engagement
Circle of Red Member
Circle of Impact Member
What Being Your Real Estate Consultant Entails - My Professional Vision Statement “To deliver extraordinary service, solutions, and results to all of my
clients and to Create the Colorado lifestyle, one family at a time!”
Mission & Philosophy The measure of success in a real estate broker is not just the buying and selling of homes and properties. Rather, it is the innate ability to connect with a client’s vision for “what is home?” And then help them make that dream a reality as easily and efficiently as possible. I am committed to serving my clients with superior and individual service, attention to detail, integrity, business acumen, and genuine care. As your real estate professional my service to you is personal, professional and goal-specific. When you hire me, you get a consultant and advocate; 1) I educate you on the process and set expectations, 2) respond to you in a timely manner, 3) give you my undivided attention, 4) write and negotiate superior contracts, 5) closely manage the deadlines & details, and 6) honor my commitments to you.
A Posture of Service to My Community I believe in community involvement. I am honored to support local organizations, programs and events both with time and resources. I also hold a leadership position with several organizations. I donate a portion of my proceeds from each closing to a non-profit of my client’s choice as a token of my gratitude to live, work and play in such a wonderful community.
The Goal: “To sell you home at the maximum possible price within a desirable timeframe while providing you a smooth and successful experience.”
Thank You for Entrusting the Sale of Your Home to ERA Shields! The company you choose to contract with does make a difference - not only in the practical experience of selling a home, it also makes a difference in your long-term satisfaction of the home you select.
About ERA Shields • • • • •
Reputation, Stability & Trust Global Company Reputation for personal, friendly & honest service. THE award-winning real estate company in the region including Colorado Springs Small Business Person of the Year and State Small Business Person of the Year • Top 15 of all ERA companies worldwide • Strong community involvement • Founded in 1985
Dedicated, Professional, Full Service Team • ERA Shields agents are all full-time professionals. • Offices open 7 days a week with customer service representatives & agents on duty for fast action if a buyer wants to see your home. • Fast customer response using the most current technology to handle on-line opportunities. • Full service marketing, relocation, IT, customer service, human resources and accounting departments. • On-site mortgage lender for quick decisions. • ERA Shields agents have the highest average agent production in the Pikes Peak region. • ERA Shields agents continually improve their knowledge & expertise through in-house educational programs, continuing education and special certifications.
Exclusive Programs & National Relocation Network • • • • • •
10K Listing Program gets you more showings & a quicker sale. Sellers Security Plan – “We’ll sell your home, or ERA will buy it.” ERA Shields is a member of the Cartus Network, the world’s largest relocation network. Principle Broker for the USAA MoversAdvantage Program. Specialized advertising programs and channels to get your home sold! ADWERK a campaign platform specifically for home listings that runs on Facebook, Instagram and the web, targeting potential home buyers and sellers
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7 Facts About Selling in Today’s Market
1. On average, 2 out of 10 listings on the market actually sell in any given month 2. Your chance of selling is NOT random, nor is it like standing in line.
3. Each neighborhood is different. Despite the downtime in the market some neighborhoods in our area have maintained their value over the past two years. 4. You need an effective marketing plan that exposes your home to the most potential buyers. 5. Staging your home is essential for a successful and timely sale.
6. While it is currently a seller’s market, it is imperative to have an effective strategy, marketing plan, and price point to deliver top dollar that results in a smooth and successful closing. 7. Your first offer is typically your best offer: Industry-wide, this is true 99% of the time. There is always that voice in the back of your head that will say “Maybe
something better will come along?” This is 100% normal, and just human nature. My role is to give you all your options and discuss the offer received and if it is something worth accepting. No matter what the offer is, please consider it as the only offer, and we will discuss to make it the best outcome possible. If it does not work out, (90% of the time they do), then we will move forward and do our best to get that next offer through the door.
Understanding Strategic Pricing
An Essential Knowledge to Selling in a Buyer’s Market Pricing your home is not an exact science. I use several resources to determine the most
strategic selling price. I provide you with the best case, and worst-case scenarios. In most cases, I am spot on with pricing, but there are many factors that determine the final outcome. Time on market, sales prices of similar properties, new inventory, and the ever-changing economy, are just some of the factors that influence final sales price. My goal is to price your home to sell, with the highest value in mind. The Focus 1st software I utilize to determine the value of your home shows us accurate list price to sales price ratios, but my monthly updates will keep us in tune with present trends. Thoroughly research and analyze all recent sold properties as well as current competition. I prepare a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help you determine the current optimum list price for your home. FOCUS 1ST Software: I use the latest technology in determining the value of your home. Typical agents only use the CMA and a few comparable to find the value of your home, which takes into account where values were. FOCUS1ST analyzes market trends and projects where values are going, which is essential to know where the market is headed. • • • • •
Buyer interest is peak during the first few weeks of listing your home. Inflating the price reduces buyer interest within that critical time. Buyers and agents won’t look at homes that are overpriced. Overpriced homes may not sell at all. More months on the market cost the seller additional mortgage payments, utility bills, maintenance and repairs. • Homes can become stale if on the market too long, giving buyers the perception “What’s wrong with this home?”
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Home Pricing Factors & Non-Factors for Sellers 6 Factors that CAN/DO influence price: • • • • • •
Your motivation (timing and price) Location, size, style, and amenities Property condition Property improvements Amount of competition Sales price of similar homes recently sold
“Active qualifying buyers for your home always drive the sales price. Gauging that is part of my job.”
6 Non-Factors that DO NOT influence price: • • • • • •
What you paid for the home Dollars spent on improvements What you owe Cost to build your home today Emotional attachment Opinions of friends and neighbors
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Getting Your Home Ready for Optimal Results
There is absolutely no doubt that a staged home in pristine condition is going to be the popular choice with buyers when given that option. Making sure your home is in top condition is imperative to getting your home sold. I will assist you with getting it just right on the front end of the process. In most cases, we may use all of your own belongings to set the perfect stage. However, making sure it is clean and tidy along the way will be up to you. Make sure to have the windows washed, baseboards scrubbed, and cabinetry oiled. It really does make a huge difference to take the extra time to make it sparkle.
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As we begin the process of selling your home, I will provide the following to you in order that we put your property and home in the best position to sell: 1. Provide detailed information about how to get your home ready for showings. 2. Provide suggestions for adding appealing and memorable touches to your home. 3. Provide assistance with staging your home. 4. Provide a checklist of things to do before every showing.
Preparation & Staging
Here are some things to do to prepare your home. We may discuss specific suggestions relevant to your home as well. 1. Curb appeal is a buyer’s first impression. Cut, trim, edge your lawn and have your landscaping in top condition. 2. Repair screens and windows so they show clean and work properly. 3. Pain any part of the house that needs it.
4. Clean carpets, repair or replace as necessary
5. Fix the pplumbing, any leaky faucets that drip, things that don’t drain properly. 6. Make the room feel larger by removing excess furnishings
7. Organize and/or declutter closets to show off storage space. 8. Garage and storage areas should be clean and neat.
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............................................ 9. Highlight every room to the best advantage to showcase it’s characteristics. 10. Keep stairways clear of all objects for safety. 11. Remove clutter from kitchen cabinets to show spaciousness. 12. Please the “cook”, with spotless and uncluttered counters 13. Appliances should be clean and in good working condition. 14. Avoid cooking that may result in potentially offensive odors for the buyers. Stay away from strong air fresheners; instead, boil cinnamon and vanilla or spices w/citrus to welcome your buyers. 15. Let the sunshine in! Open drapes and turn on lights - most buyers like an open, airy and bright home. 16. Turn off the television and radio when you home is being shown. 17. Keep all pets and children out of the home during all showings 18. Remove and replace any items that have personal attachment or significant value. 19. Never discuss furniture or furnishings with prospect before they have contracted to purchase your home. It can confuse the process for those involved. 20. Do NOT discuss price, terms, possession, or other factors of the home with potential buyers or with their showing agent. 21. Please DO NOT tag along with the buyer’s agent. If possible, leave the house during showings. This allows the buyers to feel free to ask their agent questions. Remember, their Realtor knows the buyers and their requirements, how to over come their objections, and how to show them the advantages of buying your home.
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9 Common Mistakes Hom Mistake #1 Using a Real Estate Agent Instead of a Realtor®
It’s important to remember that the terms “Real Estate Agent” and “Realtor” are not synonymous. Realtors provide an extra level of service and experience, and you must be a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR promotes real estate information, education, and professional standards and members adhere to a strict code of ethics founded on the principle of providing fair and honest service to all consumers. Realtor business practices are monitored at local board levels and Arbitration and disciplinary systems are in place to address complaints. This local monitoring keeps Realtors directly accountable to the individual consumers they serve; therefore the consumer is more likely to find better service and accountability by using a Realtor.
Mistake #2 Complacent Marketing when Selling a Home
When selling your home, there are no guarantees that the ultimate buyer of your home will simply walk through your front door. In many cases, we may have to bring your home to the buyer. Effective marketing will help ensure that your property receives maximum exposure to attract a ready, willing and able buyer in the shortest period of time. Ask your Realtor to list all the ways he or she intends to market your home, and on what time-line. Also, be sure to ask about ways your home being advertised on the Internet.
Mistake #3 Taking for Granted, the “Curb Appeal” of Your Home
When you’re preparing your house for sale, remember the importance of first impressions. A buyer’s first impression can determine if they still want to go inside to look. It is estimated that more than half of all houses are sold before the buyers even get out of their cars. With that in mind, stand in front of your home and take a realistic “fresh look” asking yourself how to improve “curb appeal.” It could make a huge difference in your final sales price and Time on market!
Mistake #4 Forgetting about Health and Safety Issues
Be up front and disclose to your Realtor any problems with the property. Most issues will be discovered anyway. A decade ago, health and safety issues were rarely a part of the typical real estate transaction. Today however, it’s common for inspections relating to health, safety, and even environmental concerns to be a part of most sales contracts. In many states, the seller must disclose to the buyer any knowledge of existing property problems. These issues have been or can be factored into the home’s listing price.
me Sellers Make Mistake #5 Forgetting What You Would Want to See if You Were the Buyer of Your Home
Remember that although people can be different in personality, they tend to be similar when it comes to expectations at someone else’s expense. In other words, a prospective buyer would probably like to see a perfect home from top to bottom, inside and out.
Mistake #6 You Need to be in the Home to Explain Things
No, you do not. To A Prospective Buyer, you will be better served if you allow your Realtor to do their job without you there. Most potential buyers usually feel more comfortable if they can speak freely to the real estate professional without the owners being present. If people are unaccompanied by an agent, and request to see your property, you should refer them to your real estate professional for an appointment.
Mistake #7 Not Knowing how to Price Your Home to Sell
Perhaps the most challenging aspect of selling a home is listing it at the correct price. It’s one of several areas where the assistance of a skilled real estate agent can pay for itself. Listing the home too high can be as bad as too low. If the listing price is too high, you’ll miss out on a percentage of buyers looking in the price range where your home should be. This is the flaw in thinking that you will always have the opportunity to accept a lower offer. Chances are the offers won’t even come in, because the buyers who would be most interested in your home have been scared off by the price, and aren’t even taking the time to look. By the time the price is correct, you have already lost exposure to a large group of potential buyers. The listing price becomes even trickier to set when prices are quickly rising or falling. It’s critical to be aware of where and how fast the market is moving - both when setting the price and when negotiating an offer. An experienced, well-trained agent is always in touch with market trends, often to a greater extent than appraisers, who typically focus on what a property is worth if sold as-is, right now.
Mistake #8 Not Planning Your Move Early Enough
Many sellers don’t plan their move early enough, and then feel overwhelmed when it’s time to move out of the house. If you are able to move at any time of the year, don’t wait until summer during peak-moving season. Consider the first and last few days of the month are extra busy. If you plan to sell your house, get it on the market as soon as possible. Keep a record of all expenses related to the move, some of which may be tax deductible. Fill out the Personal Household Inventory for each room. This is important for establishing the amount of declared valuation for the shipment and as a permanent inventory for insurance purposes. List belongings accordingly, year of purchase and original cost of each item as close as possible and to the best of your knowledge. Attach any invoices or records of purchase to the completed inventory.
Prepare a separate high-value inventory if the shipment will contain articles of “extraordinary” value. The following list may include: Also, unless you have been given a binding-moving estimate where a firm cost is established in advance, the exact cost of a move cannot be determined until after the shipment has been loaded on the van and weighed. The weight on which charges are based is calculated by weighing the van before and after loading. The total cost of the move will include transportation charges, any charges for declared valuation, plus charges for any extra services performed at your request. These charges are based on tariff rate schedules.
Mistake #9 Using a “Convenient” Realtor rather than using an Experienced Realtor
When working with a real estate agent, it’s critical that you have full confidence in that agent’s experience and education. A skilled, knowledgeable agent should be able to explain to you exactly why your home needs to be priced at a certain level, compared to recent listings and sales of homes similar to yours. Experienced agents also know exactly what the current pool of buyers are looking for in relation to particular styles and price ranges of properties. A skilled agent can recommend changes that will enhance the saleability of your home, thus increasing the price, and/or decreasing the length of time before a sale. With this information, you are now empowered and have increased the likelihood of enjoying a smoother, more seamless home selling experience.
Sampling of items to inventory before showings begin. Antiques
Persian/Oriental Rugs
Firearms
Computer Equipment
Art Collections
Safes
Jewelry
Sentimental Items
Cameras
Fine Glassware
Tapestries
Manuscripts
Collector’s Items
Electronics
China Collections
Rare Books
Silver, Gold Coins, Stamps
Crystal Precious Gem Stones Figurines
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21 Key Steps to Successfull 1. Pricing Your Home
Thoroughly research and analyze all recent sold properties as well as current competition. I prepare a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help you determine the current optimum list price for your home. FOCUS1ST Software: I use the latest technology in determining the value of your home. Typical agents only use the CMA and a few comparable to find the value of your home, which takes into account where values were. It’s worth repeating: FOCUS1ST analyzes market trends and projects where values are going, which is essential to know where the market is headed.
2. STAT Pack
It is imperative we both stay on top of the market. This in-house document brings to you the most current real estate stats & trends.
3. Listing Agreement
Complete listing agreement and review it with you so we both fully understand what is expected of us both and answer any questions you may have. Also, provide all relevant disclosures to minimize your risk.
4. Staging Your Home
Provide tips and personally advise you on how to make your home highlight its best features and be ready for showings. I will often hire professional stagers to help give your home a competitive edge.
5. MLS Listing
Carefully and fully input property information about your home into the MLS. In addition to PPAR MLS listings, I am also a member of RE Colorado, the Denver MLS service and will the listing to a broader audience and 15,000 additional agents.
6. Electronic Lockbox
Utilize an electronic lockbox on your home for added security.
7. Attractive Signage
Place a branded property sign in your front yard. Yard signs continue to be a source for sign calls, which in turn become showings. I also utilize “test to ERA” signs so interested buyers can contact me for additional details and I can gather useful data to help sell you home.
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ly Marketing Your Home 8. Full Color Brochures
Place full color brochures inside and outside the home, so those seeing your home can be sure to know all the pertinent facts about your home, especially its best qualities.
9. Maximum Photos
Your home will be extensively photographed by a professional for creating the Visual Tour, brochures, MLS photos, Internet advertising, etc. Their software allows for data collection so we can learn how to continually improve our marketing efforts toward prospective buyers.
10. Visual Tour
This slideshow of your homes best features makes it standout from the competition on-line. Video Tour: A video of your home can further enhance its on-line presence, helps viewers visualize your home more effectively. When appropriate, other mediums such as aerial photography and Interactive Floor Plan may be used.
11. Cartus Relocation
We have the strongest relocation team on the Front Range, providing the inside track to military buyers and top employers from Colorado Springs to Denver.
12. E-Contracts
To make all facets of the transaction easy and convenient, all documents can be signed on your computer or phone without printing, faxing or scanning. They are saved securely.
13. Internet Advertising
96% of all home-buyers use the Web to start their search. You will find your homes on hundreds of websites including Zillow.com, Trulia.com, my website: www.coloradohearthstone.com, and Googlebase.com just to name a few.
14. Enhanced Listing on REALTOR.com
Your home will stick out from the thousands of other homes on the world’s most popular site for home-buyers with the maximum amount of photos, Visual Tour and Video Tour buttons as well as additional text & highlights.
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I announce your home to all agents at ERA Shields through our internal system, as well as, Sales Meetings. Additionally, I am part of many other networks where I market your home locally, and internationally.
16. External Agent Promotion
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15. Internal Agent Promotion
I also announce your home to at least the Top 250 agents in the area via e-Flyer. Another tool I use is Broker Opens, which are private events for select agents. It is an opportunity to showcase your home to agents who may have buyers and collect valuable feedback from other professionals.
17. Showing Service
Our staff answers the phone 7-days per week and sets appointments per the guidelines we agree to.
18. Showing Feedback
After a showing has occurred I attempt to contact the showing agent for feedback at least three times by email, phone and/or text.
19. Weekly Contact
You can expect to hear from me at least once per week in the manner you prefer (email or phone).
20. Monthly Follow-up Meeting
Each month we will meet to review the activity on your home. We will look at pricing, condition and marketing to determine how we can improve the saleability of your home.
21. Open House
When appropriate I will host open houses (with your permission). I advertise open houses through multiple on-line channels, via print media, and with significant signage.
The Seller’s Road-map: Aligning Expectations CONTRACT Earnest Money Title DOCS/HDA Disclosure Insurance
CONTRACT To Lender
Inspec- Survey tion
Full Application
OK
Object
TERMINATE Earnest Money Return
Loan Approval
Appraisal
LOW
Walk Through
OK
Loan Conditions CLOSING!
Your Home’s Unique Ma
It’s not just about the house — It’s how we plan to make
Special Programs
Relocation Services: ERA Shields has been the most productive relocation company in Colorado Springs for more than 20 years and values its relationships with the largest relocation program in the world and the largest relocation company in the world (CARTUS). Your home will be exposed to these incoming buyers. Adwerx: Identifes for people who are browsing real estate related sites and shows them your ad even after they’ve left those sites. List Reports: Generates additional and unique marketing materials such as infographics to further generate interest to potiential buyers on the Web. Distinctive Properties Designation & Peak Producer: Provides additional channels and more exposure for your home to prospective buyers that most agents do not have. Certified Pre-Owned Home: An optional marketing plan for you to consider where you pay for a home inspection prior to going on the market. This program gives buyers confidence your home and its systems are in excellent working condition. Home Warranty: Purchase a home warranty, which alleviates buyer’s concerns with the systems within your home and allows me to promote it in my advertising. This helps sell your home quicker, for a higher price. Sellers Security Plan: “I will sell your home or ERA will buy it”. If your home qualifies we can utilize this Guaranteed Sale Program, but in any case I can also use this program to qualify a contingent buyer for your home, expanding the potential buyer pool. 10K Listing Program: For $250 your home becomes a 10K Listing. This is a VERY attractive inducement to the 3700 Agents in Pikes Peak Association of Realtors to show your home; they have a 1:40 chance to win $10,000! It helps you compete against new homebuilder incentives. ERA Shields in the ONLY firm offering this program, and it is a proven and effective tool to help your home stand out! Reverse Offer: A Reverse Offer is a creative negotiating tactic. Grand Opening: First impressions are key. If you give me 10 days after signing the Listing Agreement, I will insure your home is properly staged, and create all the marketing & advertising materials, on the first day we go on the market.
arketing Plan
e your home to stand out to the most, qualified buyers. Typical Marketing Plan // Deliverables
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Arrange photography and videography Arrange for staging Complete copy writing for brochures, direct mail pieces, web-sites Create comprehensive remarks for the Pikes Peak Multiple Listing Service Complete “on-site” brochure and package of all appropriate disclosures and other materials to help visiting brokers and prospects appreciate the Home. Complete insertion in Pikes Peak Association of Realtors database Move property to the featured listing on personal website Create ads for the print campaign and direct mail Pre-title commitment ordered Submit new listing to web sites (see attached) Pre-inspection to be arranged Create personal client website with marketing and showing feedback updates
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Prepare direct mail marketing piece for Top 250 Realtors Prepare direct mail marketing piece for “sphere of influence” – 600 pieces Link all photos to all websites Link video tour to all websites if appropriate E-mail electronic flyer to all ERA Shields agents and other Top 250 Realtors E-mail electronic flyer to e-mail farm list Put home on High End Tour (home $500,000 and over) if appropriate Put home on office tour for ERA Shields agents, and invite other top realtors Submit ads for Featured Open House
• Implement direct mail marketing in phases • Top 250 Realtors • Sphere of Influence
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• Arrange to have a Broker open house. I will track response and re-visit our marketing campaign on a monthly basis, modifying the plan as necessary, based on overall effectiveness.
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NAR STATISTICS Frequent buyer incentives are home warranty policies and assistance with closing costs. The MLS is the #1 source for sellers to list their home.
WHERE BUYERS FOUND THE HOME THEY PURCHASED, 2005-2019 Internet 43% Real Estate Agent 33% Yard Sign 9% Friend/Relative/Neighbor 6% Home Builder or Builder Agent 5% Knew the Sellers 3% Print Newspaper 1% (In 2005, it was 5%) Home Book/Magazine 0% 92% of buyers use the Internet during their home search.
ACTIONS TAKEN AS A RESULT OF INTERNET SEARCH, FIRST TIME AND REPEAT BUYERS Drove by Home Walked Thru Home/Viewed Online
76% 64%
THE TYPICAL BUYER SEARCHES FOR 10 WEEKS AND VIEWS 10 HOMES. “Despite changes in how buyers search for homes, the search for real estate agents for buying and selling remains consistent. Personal relationships drive with whom buyers and sellers work. Agents are typically recommended through referrals from friends and family of sellers. Sellers place high importance of the reputation of the agent as a factor in hiring them. Sellers find importance in whether an agent is honest or trustworthy. Sellers trust their agent to be able to perform the same 4 tasks: help sellers market the home to potential buyers, sell within a specific timeframe, price home competitively, and find a buyer for the home�.
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The Importance of the Internet Having a presence on the Internet is the MOST important piece to marketing your home. In addition to being submitted to Pikes Peak Multiple Listing Service, your home will be advertised on the following sites: REALTOR.com: The #1 real estate site on the web. This is the official Internet site of the National Association of Realtors®. REALTOR.com is a nationwide real estate database linking potential buyers to your home. This site allows homebuyers to look in any city, in any state in the nation for a home. We have a REALTOR.com “homepage plus” providing immediate e-mail capabilities for the inquiries on the property and the ability to host multiple photos instead of only one. We can also post video tours and enhance colors and verbiage. Why realtor.com? • We enhance all listings on Realtor.com, giving us the ability to add additional photographs, visual tours, detailed property description, attention-getting headlines, and detailed traffic reports. Realtor.com listing enhancements provide many benefits to our sellers: • Homes with multiple photos rise to the top on the most viewed page on Realtor.com — the search page. Our listings include up to twenty-five photographs, video tours, detailed property descriptions, and company branding for higher visibility. • Buyers are attracted to companies with lots of inventory. The ERA Shields logo is displayed on every listing on the search results page, as well as on the listing detail page, demonstrating our prominence in the Pikes Peak region. • Buyers can inquire about a home 24/7 via email, phone, or fax. Our listings contain an email link to the listing agent, and other important contact information. • Realtor.com provides traffic tracking on enhanced listings. We have access to information about how often a home was “shown” on Realtor.com
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ERAShields.com Provides information about our company, current listings, virtual tours, home buying and selling information, relocation information about Colorado Springs, information on area neighborhoods, mortgage information, rental information, new construction and military information.
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ColoradoSprings.com A local website with access to a searchable version of the Pike’s Peak Multiple Listing Service. It offers information on relocation, real estate transactions and building permits, plus links to the Gazette classifieds + Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce. Additionally - your home will post to dozens of sites.
What I will need from you: Blueprint, plat maps, warranties, schematics, manuals, etc. Existing loan information 2-keys Contact information including work numbers and email Names of all children, pets living with you Survey and/or improvement location certificate HOA information including rules and regulations, most recent minutes, bylaws, special assessment information Any past appraisals Access codes for security system and system lease agreement Property tax information Homeowner insurance policy Average utility bills for previous 12-months Complete feature list List of all improvements you’ve made on the property
My Boutique Menu
After careful and thoughtful consideration of what helps my clients the most as they prepare to list their home along with what helps to make the home “show ready,” I offer this unique menu to my clients. You are invited to select any two items from this list. We will talk thru the items to determine what will benefit you the most to help get your home ready to list while also attracting qualified buyers offering top dollar. The ultimate goal is to provide the best opportunity and maximum exposure to obtain the optimal offer that supports your time frame.
Select 2 items from this list! 1. Professional home staging, utilizing 2 to 4 hours of the stager’s time 2. Professional home inspection completed along with comprehensive report 3. Utilize a professional photographer who uses high definition photography 4. Aerial photos if appropriate and zoning allows (when appropriate) 5. Actual virtual tour (rather than putting photos to music which is customary) 6. Provide a one-year home warranty to Buyer and to Seller during listing period 7. Furnace cleaned, serviced, and safety checked 8. Roof inspected and certified 9. 3-5 hrs handyman repair services up to $200 in costs (materials at homeowner’s expense) 10. Up to 3 hours of mover’s time to move items to storage or other locations 11. One professional home cleaning up to $200 in costs 12. Provide the 1OK listing to help encourage agents to show your home I have evaluated the marketplace and found that the common thread to success is to ensure that your home shines above all the others in the area. The homes that get selected by buyers are in fact the cleanest, most updated, easiest to show and priced correctly. If we take care of major issues upfront, we are more likely to have a positive and profitable transaction together. All Clients will be provided a list of professionals that my team works with, all of which have been prescreened and we have worked with in the past with great success. This is a team effort by which we are providing the fastest pathway to a successful closing.
What is in 3.0 ? %
Understanding How RealtorsÂŽ Are Compensated A commonly misunderstood parts of the real estate process is how Realtors are paid. The following is quick synopsis that outlines many of the essential aspects of how quality Realtors earn their commission. First: There is a big difference between Realtors who dabble this industry to make commissions, and those who make a career in this industry because they love working with and helping people find the home they want and need. ERA Shields Realtors are career professionals. An Investment of Time: In the typical real estate transaction, when I represent the sellers, my investment in time is between 75-100 hours in addition to the marketing & advertising expenses, which for me are around 1% of the total sales price. I call this time and money spent an investment, some might call it a gamble since I do not earn a dime unless I am successful in getting your home sold. Why Professionals Work with Real Estate Companies? I am an independent contractor working for ERA Shields Real Estate. This simply means I pay ERA Shields to oversee my actions and provide me additional services, which I pass along to my clients. ERA Shields does NOT pay me a salary or any health benefits, my compensation is 100% commission. All of my expenses are mine to bear. My Fees: My professional service fee (the industry term is, commission) is 3% of the actual sales price of your home. This fee is based upon the services I provide, my experience, and the cost of doing business. You are also charged an additional 3% commission (for a total commission of 6%), which goes to the real estate agent who brings the buyer. I also like to remind potential clients that agents are all different, as are the services each provides. Compare agents by what they will do to help you get your home sold, the information they provide and whom you trust.
What I Do During Your Transaction ... Here are just of few of the tasks I will perform behind the scenes and ensure your transaction is as seamless as possible. • Research ownership of property
• Negotiate amendments or counter offers
• Research legal description of property
• Deliver signed offer to seller’s agent
• Research all comparable currently listed properties
• Account for earnest money deposit
• Research previous sales activity in the neighborhood you’re interested in order and review property profile from the tax information • Order and review Assessor’s tax information • Complete market study and total market overview • Contact seller’s agent and discuss sellers qualifications and negotiate an offer • Complete all needed forms for the transaction • Negotiate amendments or counter offers • Relay loan status to seller • Provide copies of contract, addendums, closing and control forms to title company
• Ensure lender requirements are met • Consult/assist in arranging financing • Schedule follow up on appraisal • Provide comparable sales for appraiser • Review and appeal if appraisal is low • Confirm verifications of deposit and employment have been returned to lender • Monitor loan processing through to underwriter • Contact lender weekly to track and monitor processing • Coordinate closing date, time and location with seller, lender, buyers, sellers agent and title company • Final walk through for buyer
• Coordinate home inspection
• Oversee entire closing process
• Review inspection results and negotiate any home inspection rejections
• Be there for you after closing, and MUCH more...
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Testimonials about working with Marquesa Hobbs ... Marquesa is truly a professional! She helped me sell my home in Colorado Springs while I was living in Kansas. She took care of everything and it was on the market for less than 36 hours! We got 5 offers all over asking price because she is that amazing! We also became friends through the process and I stopped looking at Marquesa as “my realtor” but as my friend who was helping me sell my house. She is a wonderful person and a class act... and I feel privileged to call her a friend; who also happens to be an awesome realtor! -- Randy L. I could write a book about the Helpfulness and guidance this amazing lady provided. I don’t even know where to begin, but chose this amazing lady to help find your home. This is our first home and we have Marquesa to thank for that. She is without a doubt the lynch pin person for us to thank for home ownership. She has gone above and beyond with a smile and professionalism that is unsurpassed. When our pre-approval was being difficult Marquesa saved the day with some recommendations of local lenders, who in turn got us set up for a better loan. Even when the first time we put an offer in and the listing was cancelled the next morning, I worried. Marquesa smiled that great smile and said “we will find one even better”. We couldn’t be happier, words don’t express how appreciative we are to have worked with her. Should we need to, we will be grateful to work with her again. I can’t recommend her help enough. -- Amber & Bobby P. There simply is no realtor more thorough and responsive. From market research, to contract execution, to inspections and closing, Marquesa Hobbs expertly guides her clients through the property buying and selling process. She conducts meticulous research throughout the process, presenting the facts to her client along with options and then lets the client make the decisions. Once a decision is made, Marquesa skillfully advocates the post possible terms for her client. She responds to questions and inquires in a timely manner, generally within minutes. If you’re looking for a realtor to represent and assist you in buying or selling property, look no further than Marquesa Hobbs. She has our highest recommendation. -- Mike H. Marquesa was so helpful in the purchase of our house. She was patient and flexible to our needs. We really appreciated her making sure we understood all the legal parts of buying a home, which I never would have thought about! She is intelligent, caring, and such a great realtor! -- Erin F.
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Marquesa went to great lengths to provide top service when selling our home. Her professionalism and expertise in real estate put me instantly at ease, but it was her availability and attention to detail that makes her the best in the Springs. You will not be disappointed! -- Sarah H. Working with Marquesa has been great. In knowing our family’s move from Indiana to Colorado would be a challenge, she enabled the transition to go very smooth. She was able to line up a great deal of homes in the 3 day period we had to find a house and worked hard to find the house that best suited our family’s needs. Marquesa understands the real estate market in Colorado Springs and matched our budget with the home that we plan to live in for a long time. I would gladly refer Marquesa to anyone looking for the perfect family home in the Colorado Springs area.
-- Drew & Renee S.
Marquesa is a truly kind, intelligent and professional agent. She helped us find the perfect home and walked us through the steps of buying. The closing was so smooth and soon we walked out with the keys to our lovely home. Marquesa was my agent but now I would like to call her friend. -- Susan A. Marquesa is the epitome of a professional. She is courteous, compassionate and very knowledgeable in her field. She is available to answer your questions and she represents your best interests in every negotiation. She ensures her clients understand the complete process by making you comfortable and confidant in the choices you make in buying a home. Call Marquesa Hobbs. Period. -- Traci M. Marquesa was amazing to work with! She really takes the time to find out what is really important to you in your search and was always willing to work with my somewhat crazy schedule. She is very knowledgeable and really helped to educate me in everything I needed to know. She went way above and beyond in finding me the perfect house. Once we found it, the deal was NOT an easy one! We had inflexible sellers and a VERY difficult agent to work with, and she had to put in a lot of extra time to make sure the deal closed. All of which she did with the highest level of professionalism and a smile. I would highly recommend her to anyone! -- Sarah C. Marquesa worked with us from start to finish. I am military and she was very willing to work around my schedule. My wife and son found a wonderful home in Colorado Springs with the helped Marquesa. I would recommend Marquesa to all my friends, family and coworkers. She was very professional and personal. -- Mateo B.
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Marquesa has made the purchase of our second home a memorable experience. She was so patient and helpful during this six month process. This was not our first home purchase, but Marquesa added so much insight and experience to this process that was truly invaluable. We were returning to the states after three years overseas, to an area that we have never been before. She walked us through every step of the process and intervened at the perfect times to ensure we were being taken care of properly. She was very receptive to our wants and needs and did everything in her power to facilitate them. She really showed us what a truly professional real estate transaction should look like. We are forever grateful. Thank you so much Marquesa! -- Bobby J. Before you look any further, stop, and call Marquesa Hobbs, 719-238-0330. Marquesa’s attention to your specific needs and wants is undoubtedly her strength. She knows the area extremely well and is very open and honest throughout the entire selling/buying process. Her communication and professionalism is above and beyond what you can from other realtors. She takes the time to get to know you and your family and works tirelessly for you. I HIGHLY recommend you work with Marquesa, you will walk away with the most positive selling/buying experience in your lifetime! -- Samantha G. First off, I must admit that I am a first time home buyer. As you could imagine, I was extremely nervous. Thankfully, I got in touch with Marquessa! Her knowledge, patience and professionalism made the process extremely smooth. I cannot imagine any body else that has a wider set of real estate skills, respect for her clients and passion for getting things done right! Thank you for changing my life in the most positive way! -- Haji D. Marquesa did a great job helping us find a home in Black Forest at the end of a very long search using some other realtors. Some buyer’s reps make kind of a song-and-dance out of showings rather than quietly listening to get to know you. We felt Marquesa paid close attention to us, didn’t try to sell us on things we didn’t want, took interest in and respected our own experience, while also picking up on the fact that we needed someone who would shepherd us gently in hitting contract deadlines during the process of landing the deal. In addition to her professionalism she also struck us as being exceptionally kind and thoughtful. The whole process went very smoothly for all involved. -- David B. Marquesa was absolutely phenomenal to work with. Despite living in a different state, and international trip, and numerous other difficulties, she worked tirelessly to help me find a house that I loved. Her knowledge and ability to ask pointed questions help us both narrow down what I was searching for, and her experience helped secure the house despite a multiple-offer situation. Not only did she help to find a house, she also offered great insight and advice on the local area. She made a first-time buyer feel very comfortable and the whole home buying experience much easier than I would have previously guessed. I will definitely be recommending her to anyone that wants to move to Colorado Springs -- Jon C. Marquesa was awesome to work with. I was an out of state buyer that took about 2 years to make the move. Marquesa was very patient during the process. She was very knowledgeable about the market & coming from out of state that was very important to me. She understood the specific needs I had with making the purchase. She went above & beyond for me with the inspections, deadlines & taking care of the many needs I had with coming from out of state. Marquesa is very committed to her buyers. I would highly recommend Marquesa to anyone looking to buy or sell their home. Thank you Marquesa! Jill Z.
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Marquesa Hobbs, CNE
............................................ Marquesa A. Hobbs, CNE
An ERA Shields Real Estate Broker Associate | Realtor
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5475 Tech Center Drive, Suite 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Office: 719.593.1000 | Mobile: 719.238.0330 MHobbs@erashields.com www.ColoradoHearthstone.com