Real Estate Buying Tips from the Pros

Whether you’re buying your rst house, or you’re well versed in the real estate game, the laws and mountain of paperwork are always changing. If you’re not a real estate professional, it’s an overwhelming process. That’s why it’s so important to develop a relationship with a professional who has the experience and knowledge to walk through the process with you, and who can answer questions and guide you through the sea of negotiations, inspections, repairs and legalities.

Forsyth County is home to some true professionals, and we are thankful that some of the local experts have chimed in with their best advice for home buying, home selling and making sure that either way – you get the best bang for your buck.

Always focused on what’s important to YOU!

Jody Peske is the Broker in Charge at Keller Williams. With 12+ years experience in real estate, she knows the market and the process.

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“I recommend taking your time. There’s no reason to rush to market if your home isn’t ready to be presented. Taking a few extra weeks to neutralize colors, make repairs and de-clutter can mean a better offer!”

“Additionally, it’s never a bad idea to consider bringing in a home stager to help prepare your house for a buyer. Staged homes can sell up to 88% faster and bring in 20% more than non-staged homes!”

“Finally, I recommend that homebuyers get serious about saving for their down payment. Lenders are still looking for that 20% down. If you are looking for homes in the $200,000 range, that’s $40,000. Those without a 20% down payment may qualify for a home loan, but they will have to pay for private mortgage insurance until their equity reaches that 20% mark.” Pam Boyle is the Leader of the Team when it comes to Pam Boyle and Associates, a real estate company operating under the Keller Williams umbrella. With 28+ years in the industry, she’s a true pro!

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“Every homebuyer is looking for storage, and it’s almost impossible to have too much of it! I recommend removing half of what’s in closets and drawers and making sure they are organized. Buyers don’t want to see crowded, overstuffed closets. It gives the illusion that there’s not enough space in the house.”

“Doing home repairs on a house you plan to sell can add up. Before you spend a lot of money that will come out of your pro ts, consider inexpensive, yet impactful changes. Paint, new door handles, cabinet hardware – all easy, inexpensive updates! Also, double check that grout and tile are clean and faucets aren’t leaky!”

“Lastly, meet with a lender who can advise on which nancing options will work best for you. That process can empower you with stronger negotiating power and show a seller that you are a serious buyer who is ready to make a deal.”

Alison, Jenny and Renea are the professional trio who make up Southern Signature Properties. With a motto of “Live Southern Hospitality,” these three pros are in the real estate know!

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“Start by boosting your curb appeal! Simple details go a long way, such as freshening up the exterior of the home with a pressure washing and landscaping with fresh owers to lure buyers in. Open the curtains and blinds to let in the natural light. Depersonalize the home, so buyers don’t get distracted with your personal photos and add a subtle fragrance. You want to let buyers envision their own family living in the space!”

“Make the house sparkling clean! This is the easiest way to help your home put its best foot forward. Clear away all clutter, purge anything unnecessary or start packing up boxes to make your move easier. Clean every inch from baseboards to ceiling fans. If this seems like a daunting task, treat yourself to a one-time spring-cleaning from a professional.”

“Finally, get pre-quali ed before you start looking. Shop rates with lenders to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.”

For more than 10 years, Chrystal Yates has specialized in real estate sales in the Triad. She is with Allen Tate and works with buyers and sellers.

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“Having a realtor who knows the area as well as the industry is important. He or she can help you make decisions on locations based on school preferences and accessibility to other areas in the community. Not to mention, the advice from a professional and experienced realtor can have a big impact on gains and losses. Experience counts.”

“Ensure the professional you work with can give honest and realistic expectations of what your house will sell for. The last thing you want is to over-price yourself out of a sale, or even worse – undervalue your home and lose earning potential. Pricing it right in the beginning saves you time and money.”

“Your relationship with your realtor is just that. A relationship. Choose someone who has experience you can trust, and who has demonstrated follow-up skills. You de nitely want someone who is keeping up with the timeline and paperwork involved in a real estate transaction! Trusting that your realtor has your back will keep you calm and con dent.”