Caroline is the DREAM realtor!…read more
As a first-time homebuyer in Irvine, I needed a realtor who knew the market and could act strategically quick in a highly competitive environment, while having the patience to guide me through the overwhelming process. In just a few weeks, Caroline found my home before it even officially hit the market and helped me secure it. Now, five months later, I finally am feeling settled in my dream community. Every day I wake up in a place I'm proud to call home, feeling fortunate not only for the house itself but also for having an advocate who stayed on top of it and made what seemed nearly impossible, possible.
From the start, Caroline was empathetic and truly put herself in my shoes when it came to my goals. She actively listened every step of the way and respected every unique criteria, like kitchen on first floor, no rain chain (we both learned what this was for the first time, hah), nor front doors opening to stairs for Feng Shui, to list a few. Since these details aren't filterable on listing sites, she personally reviewed each one and was quick to adjust when criteria did not match.
She kept everything organized, from scheduling tours to mapping efficient routes, and was always either early or punctual to the dot. One selling agent at an open house even called us a "BREATH OF FRESH AIR"... because of her friendly and approachable demeanor! She knew just how to small talk and build rapport with each and every one of them.
Caroline's communication is second to none, professional, positive, and most importantly, proactive. We were first to make the offer, first to respond to the counter, and she never missed a beat in follow-ups. She knew exactly what she was doing, and her guidance even helped us secure the winning offer just a little over asking by $1K!
On the DAILY, Caroline kept me fully in the loop with updates. She nudged paperwork with a gentle, tactful touch that never felt pushy, and whenever I had questions, she shared her professional opinion yet never imposed, always respecting my decisions in the end - clearly on my side the whole way.
Escrow was THE most stressful part of the process. Ours was 21 days, with no room for hiccups... my lease was ending at the same time, tenants hadn't moved out yet, and negotiations were intense. It was high stakes and fast, but Caroline put on her THERAPIST hat and kept me calm throughout and reassured me we were on the right track and would not lose the home, while meticulously coordinating every detail behind the scenes.
The home was practically in original condition. During the inspection process, she switched to her HANDYWOMAN hat, offering practical advice on how to freshen it up, from painting to reglazing the shower, so we could focus on the big-ticket items. In the end, she successfully negotiated ALL but ONE request, including what we jokingly called the "gutter garden" cleaning...something that almost never happens!
What sets Caroline apart is her heart. She genuinely cares about her clients and goes above and beyond with the best intentions. Working with her felt like having both an expert realtor and a trusted friend. Who else would bring me a Starbucks medicine ball... TWICE...when I was feeling under the weather, and then be crazy with me to cheer, high-five, clap, and jump up and down filming our celebratory win as I got my new keys?! Her housewarming gifts were incredibly thoughtful to, from a Ring camera and Dyson V8 to a Zojirushi hot pot & skillet appliance - a warm nod to how we bonded over our shared love of hot pot! Every time I think back on my first home-buying journey, I smile. Caroline made me a priority and was there for me through ever stress and success, and I wouldn't have had it any other way.
If you want a realtor who will fight for your dream home and make the experience smooth and truly fulfilling, Caroline is that person. For anyone looking to buy their first home in Orange County, even if it is just to get educated on the market, I highly recommend Caroline Zhong.
