Where do we start? We start with a meeting at our offices with one of our agents who will listen to what you are looking for and discover what your interests are. With the help of a map, we will pinpoint the areas of town and neighborhoods that fit your requirements. We will want to know your vision. Are you looking for a neighborhood with good schools, an urban setting with low maintenance, new construction or an existing home with remodeling potential? We will go over some general numbers and give you the name of a lender to talk to so that you can get a more detailed financing plan in place.

How do we find what you want? Let BGRE do the homework for you. We will research and preview the properties that best fit your needs. Your time is valuable, so we will not waste it looking at properties that don’t match your criteria. We can arrange showings on any property in MLS, and we can also keep tabs on properties that are ”hip pocket listings,” which are not on the open market. Many transactions that we do are never on the market. If you like getting e-mails, we will e-mail you properties that fit your needs before we get together to view them. You can count on us to explore every avenue possible to find the right property for you.

How long does it take? Your timetable is ours. It usually takes just a few weeks to get financing and do inspections. The real issue is finding the right property that you fall in love with. We hope to do that as quickly as possible, but if it takes time and seeing lots of houses that is not a problem. We will show you as many properties as you need to see and track the market for you for as long as it takes.

How do we initiate an offer? Once you find a property that you want to make an offer on, it is a relatively easy process to begin.  We will review pricing to determine the correct price at which to initiate an offer.  We will do a market analysis for you where we review comparable sales and pending and active properties.  This will allow us to establish the proper negotiating strategy for the particular property you are interested in.

Can we negotiate? It really depends on what the market analysis reveals. Many of the homes in the better neighborhoods are selling very quickly at, or above, asking price. Some of the better values can be found in existing homes that are in need of remodeling. The newer construction is often selling at a premium due to market preferences. Existing homes that are in impeccable condition also command prices very near, or even above the asking price. Demand has been strong with low interest rates. We always look at the current inventory and recent sale to measure the strength of the market within a given area and type of property. The offer will have an option period in it, when you can have the property inspected and negotiate any needed repairs or cancel the contract and receive all your earnest money back.

How can we get the best price? Make your offer as “clean” as possible. Get pre-qualified for your financing with a loan approval letter that can be submitted with the offer. Present a letter with the offer telling the seller about yourself and why you are interested in purchasing their property. Personalizing the process can have a real impact on the offer, especially in a situation where there are multiple offers. Seek homes that have potential for remodeling. If you have the gift of visualization, you can often get a home with more upside if you are willing to see the remodeling through.

Who does the real estate agent work for? This has been a topic that has received a lot of attention and use to create a lot of confusion for homebuyers who thought that the listing agent was representing their interests, when in fact they were agents for the seller. Clarifying these relationships from the start is important so that you understand what is appropriate to discuss. Our agents will review and clarify your options when you first meet with them. There are agents that work for the seller and their agents that work for the buyer. We will give you the opportunity to engage us to go to work on your behalf as a buyer’s agent.

What do you do for us as a Buyer’s agent? Besides helping you track and find your dream home? We handle the big picture and these countless little details:
• Negotiate the best price and terms on your behalf
• Orderthe appropriate inspections
• Work with your lender and the appraiser to be certain your loan is approved on time
• Confer with the title company about hundreds of closing details and the preparation of your settlement statement
• Assist you with the inspection and repair process
• Assist you with the transfer of utilities into your name
• Make sure you receive a recorded deed and title policy
• Remain your primary source of information and assistance, months and years after closing.

How can we be sure that we are making the right decision? We will not sell you a property that we think is a bad decision for you. The simple reason for this is that we want you to be our client for life and we want to work with your friends and family.

What do our services cost? Are you ready for some really great news? The seller pays our fees on properties listed in MLS. The fees are built into the asking price, so there is no cost involved for you.

When do we get started? How about right now? Take your time and study our website to see what fires your imagination and is of interest to you. Search all of our listings to get a feel for some of the properties we represent, and then broaden your search through our link to MLS. When you are ready, simply fill out the response form below and send us e-mail or give us a call to arrange a time for us to get together and discuss your goals and dreams.