This is my first YELP review and I will update it as necessary when I recall things worth adding.
If you want a realtor who texts (SMS), e-mail, uses online tools for electronic signatures, and answers the phone every time look no further. She's more tech savvy than wife!
When my wife and I decided to no longer wait and start looking for a home, we almost made the mistake of not getting a buyer's agent. I don't recall how I stumbled upon Lori Collins but I'm glad we did.
We made initial contact on a Sunday morning and asked for help. We let her know we had a property in mind and she agreed to meet us over there. We put an offer on it and she walked us through every single form and their purpose. She will stop to answer questions and never rushed to move forward until she knew you were satisfied.
Fast forward a little, our offer wasn't accepted and she started sending us listings for review. Once we decided on a property, we were looking at it within 2 days. When our offer was accepted on the third house, she started to coordinate between the mortgagee and all parties. Her communication skills are impressive as expected.
Do your homework, research and ask, ask ask! Buying a house for the first time isn't easy but Lori made it easy for us. She will never speak of "certainties" i.e. "rates will go up" or "this home is the best in the neighborhood".
Pros:
She is very knowledgeable and she can prove it if you ask her anything but...
She will never make a decision for you or lead you in any way
You won't feel rushed
She remains cool, calm, and collective even if you are about to the house.
She won't call you to check on you and the listings; just contact her once you find something you like.
We told her our budget and she NEVER sent us a listing even $1 over it.
Even when the selling agent made some ridiculous demands, she professionally forwarded that request to us for consideration.
Even after closing, she's still working hard for us to make sure closing was done properly.
She's more a neutral party, in a good way! She won't put thoughts in your head.
Cons:
If you want a realtor who will do all the legwork for you, Lori isn't for you.
If you are lazy and expect miracles, Lori isn't for you.
If you find yourself asking "what do you think?" all the time, Lori isn't for you.
You must participate in the process and the end result shows: You are responsible for the inspections, satisfaction and responsible decision-making. If we ever need to sell I have no doubt I will call Collins Realty. I'd also be willing to argue in her favor against anyone who recommends another realtor in front of me.
Every once in a while we caught a glimpse of the madness happening behind the scenes. We understood everything she was shielding us from.
Do yourself a favor, ask her what her former career was... It will all make sense once you know! read more
