I was a first-time home buyer who at the age of 40 still hadn't committed to taking the "homeowner" plunge. I had held off for more than 15 years, so you can imagine how apprehensive I was to purchase a home in the pricey DMV area. I had two realtors before being referred to Fred by a close friend. I didn't feel as though any of those two previous realtors had my best interest in mind and one even pressured me into making a purchase that would have been to my detriment (trying to make that quick commission I believe.) Then I met Fred and what I imagined a real estate agent to be (most undoubtedly from watching too many episodes of House Hunters and Property Brothers) became reality. Here is what set Fred apart from the other real estate agents:
1. Fred is an experienced homebuyer himself. He has a few purchases under his belt, so he knows the ends and outs of what to expect during the process and he is quick to raise any red flags if things are progressing in a way he thinks isn't standard procedure.
2. He gives REAL HONEST ADVICE w/ evidence. I would ask previous realtors if something was a good investment, or if the house was in a good market and I would either get blank stares or the standard "Yes." Ok, Yes...and? Back it up! Fred backs up his advice with evidence, research, and a dash of down to earth financial "street smarts."
3. Excellent negotiator. One of my previous realtors didn't even try to negotiate. Instead it was we just need to go in with full asking price. Ok, once again, why? Back it up! Fred was able to get me below my budget and some concessions thrown in. After going back and forth with the seller, Fred was able to pinpoint the "sweet spot" by noticing a trend in the negotiation process that I didn't even see. I didn't have a lot of money upfront so he was able to find ways to get me more money at the front end.
4. Understands both Single-Family and Condo Living. In the DC area, unlike many other areas across the country, DC is full of "condo" units. I wasn't in the market for a stand alone house with a yard (my previous realtor was trying to push me this route but it would have been too much of a burden for me and the commute to work in DC would have been horrendous.) Fred has served on condo associations before so he had inside understanding of how condo living works, the politics, things to avoid when considering a condo, and how to read condo association financials to determine if purchasing in that particular building would be a good investment in the long run. I didn't realize all that goes into condo financials and the "drama" of an association. Without Fred I might have been scared away from condo life. Fred demystified the condo association relationship and made sure I chose the right building for my needs.
5. Lastly, but surely not his last attribute, Fred is a genuinely nice and pleasant person to work with. He was attentive to my questions, gave me what seemed like undivided attention, and made sure I didn't rush into anything--almost like a big brother. In a time when manners and respect seem to be lacking, Fred comes replete with both.
You cannot go wrong with Fred and I would say, unlike some of those big box name real estate companies, Fred reminds me of that hometown friend who happens to be a realtor, and who, more than just a commission, values you as a person above all. I am happy to report, my little tiny condo (I mean come on this is the DMV, everything is tiny!) is perfect for me and I was able to secure it with not the best percentage of a down payment all because Fred made sure I was taken care of and that the transaction didn't just advantage the seller. I got a little peace of mind as well. Call Fred now! read more