The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team Sells Another North Atlanta Home In Maplecliff in Sugarhill, Georgia

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team Sells Another North Atlanta Home In Sugarhill, Georgia

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team Sells Another North Atlanta Home In Maplecliff in Sugarhill, Georgia by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty 678.929.6529 - www.mevhomes.com

The property located on Maplecliff Drive is located in the neighborhood of Maplecliff in Sugarhill, Georgia, 30518. It is a 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath home with a master bedroom on the main level and a breakfast room open to a cozy covered porch. It sold for $209,200.

According to market reports, the median listing price for a home in 30518 is $225,360. 

The number of active listings in Buford (30518) increased by 12.1% from the previous month. The median number of days active properties have been listed is 56. This is significantly shorter than the national average. The number of sales in September dropped by 88.6% from the previous month.

The median household income in 30518 is $66,613 with 927 households earning between $35,000 to $40,000 annually.

Team leader, Mary Ellen Vanaken states "We are primarily in a sellers market in North Atlanta right now, but there is plenty of opportunity for home buyers as well. Rates continue to be low and we are seeing more home loans being approved every day. And believe it or not, homes are selling even during the holiday season.  Homeowners realize that there are several key reasons why they should list their North Atlanta home today. They will have fewer showings. This is good because those people that are looking for houses to purchase during the holidays are much more serious buyers. Serious home buyers are putting aside time to pursue their home search during one of the busiest times of the year.  And January is a big time for relocating- most companies that have to move or relocate employees target January for those moves. That means housing decisions are being made in November-December, during the holidays. Again, these are motivated buyers with a hard deadline."

Find Your Home In Sugarhill Georgia
Sugarhill homes under $200,000
Sugarhill homes $201,000-$300,000
Sugarhill homes $301,000-$400,000
Sugarhill homes $401,000-$500,000
Sugarhill homes $501,000-$600,000
Sugarhill homes $601,000-$700,000
Sugarhill homes $701,000-$800,000
Sugarhill homes $801,000-$900,000
Sugarhill homes $901,000 and above

To buy or sell in Sugarhill Georgia contact our team today at 678.929.6529 or visit us at www.mevhomes.com




The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team Sells Another North Atlanta Home In Maplecliff in Sugarhill, Georgia

How Much House Can You Afford In North Atlanta

How Much House You Can Afford In North Atlanta

How Much House Can You Afford In North Atlanta by
The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty
678.929.6529 http://www.mevhomes.com

Your  mortgage lender will determine how much you can borrow but you must decide what you can afford.

Lenders are very careful, but they make qualification decisions based on only averages and formulas. They will not understand your lifestyle and spending patterns as well as you do. So, be sure to leave a room for the unexpected such as the new opportunities your home will give you to spend money, from furnishings, to landscaping, to repairs.

Historically, banks use a ratio called 28/36 to decide how much borrowers could borrow. An approved housing payment couldn't be more than 28 percent of the buyer's gross monthly income, and his or her total debt load, including car payments, student loans, and credit card payments, couldn't be more than 36 percent.  As home prices have risen, some lenders have responded by stretching these ratios to as high as 50 percent. No matter how expensive your market though, we urge you to think carefully before stretching your budget quite so much.

Deciding how much house you can afford in North Atlanta should involve some careful attention to how your financial profile will change in the upcoming years. In the long run, your own peace of mind and security will matter most.

Do you know how much your home or your neighbors home is worth? Find out how your homes value has increased in just 30 SECONDS! Simply click on this link: HOMEVALUESNORTHATLANTA.COM

You will receive a custom report with information such as the picure below below as well as details on listings in your neighborhood, community descriptions and school information.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty specializes in Luxury Real Estate in the North Fulton and Forsyth County areas of Georgia. If you're looking to buy or sell in the communities of North Atlanta - Alpahretta, Cumming, Roswell, Johns Creek and Milton contact us today at:
678.929.6529
http://www.mevhomes.com. 
5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100
Alpharetta, GA 30041

How Much House Can You Afford In North Atlanta

Opting For New Home Construction In North Atlanta

Opting For New Home Construction In North Atlanta

Opting For New Home Construction In North Atlanta by
The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty
678-665-2887
5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100
Alpharetta Ga 30005
www.mevhomes.com

Whether to buy an existing home or opting for new home construction in North Atlanta is yet another decision to make during the home-buying process. If you decide to go with new construction, a real estate agent can be a powerful advocate in your corner as you negotiate upgrades, a move-in date and other terms with the home builder. Below are some basic pointers to prepare you for the journey ahead.

Selecting a builder
Shopping for a large production or custom home builder can be a daunting task. Start by defining what architectural styles appeal to you and then seek out the builders in your area who offer those styles. Due diligence is essential. Ask friends for referrals to get firsthand accounts; verify the builder's state license status, if applicable; and check whether they're certified by the National Association of Home Builders.

The builder representative and your real estate agent
A builder representative's ultimate goal is to sell you a home. His or her role is to provide a wide range of information to help you in your decision-making, from building restrictions, roads and easements to inspections, warranties, rebates and upgrades. A real estate agent knowledgeable in new-home construction will be able to help you wade through all the data and point out the downsides and upsides of each line item. Your agent also can look out for your interests in reviewing the builder's contract, which often contains more legal jargon than consumer-friendly language.

It's all about timing
Market conditions greatly dictate a builder's incentive to make a deal you cannot refuse. When a builder has inventory on his hands, his carrying costs start adding up. When this happens, a builder might be more amenable to strike a favorable deal, whether it's throwing in upgrades or taking a bit off the asking price. A real estate agent can help you know when market conditions are right for these benefits. Also, watch for builder close-out sales. Builders promote these special events when a new subdivision is near completion but empty inventory still remains.

A word about paying up
While there are always exceptions, most builders require a deposit when a purchase agreement is signed. They also require that the buyer pay for any upgrades prior to closing. If you back out prior to closing, unless the agreement states otherwise, you will lose that money. Make sure you understand every detail in the builder's contract before signing it.

To begin your home search CLICK HERE OR contact The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta at 678-665-2887. Our team are specialists in the luxury home communities of North Atlanta including Alpharetta, Roswell, Cumming, Milton and Johns Creek.

Opting For New Home Construction In North Atlanta

North Atlanta Home Search Affects Lifestyle

North Atlanta Home Search Affects Lifestyle

North Atlanta Home Search Affects Lifestyle presented by
The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty 678-665-2887

Where you buy not only affects the home's current and future value, but it also affects your lifestyle. Our team will be able to conduct a more targeted home search if you outline your preferences in neighborhoods and nearby amenities. Here's a checklist of items you should consider.

* Urban, suburban or rural
* Commute time
* School districts
* Desirable neighborhoods
* Proximity to the airport
* Proximity to restaurants and retail
* Access to major highways and thoroughfares
* Access to public transportation
* Health care facilities
* Parks and recreation
* Length of time you plan to live in the home. Our team is knowledgeable about growth trends and projections that could affect your investment. Click here for a FREE listing of homes available in the North Atlanta communities of Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell, Milton and Johns Creek. 

Do you want to know what your current home is worth? Find out using our free home valuation tool. It only takes 30 seconds to complete and we will send you a gorgeous custom report today! CLICK HERE to begin. 

North Atlanta home search affects lifestyle. Having a list of preferences makes the search that much easier. The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team is ready to assist you. As luxury home specialists in North Atlanta our team members have lived and raised our families in the area for over 15+ years. We know the neighborhoods, schools, parks, shopping and more. Contact us today:

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team
Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta
5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100
Alpharetta, GA 30004
678-665-2887
www.mevhomes.com

North Atlanta Home Search Affects Lifestyle

Alpharetta GA Home Value Tool

Alpharetta GA Home Value Tool

Alpharetta GA Home Value Tool presented by
The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty
678-665-2887

Do you know how much your Alpharetta GA home is worth?  In real estate, a home's value is not the same as a home's price.  A home's value is an estimate of what that home is actually worth.  The sales price may be higher or lower, depending on who has the best negotiating skills, who wants the deal most, and if there are any incentives thrown in to enhance the sale. A home's value is often referred to as the fair market value. Fair market value is the estimated price a buyer and seller could agree.

Before you consider selling your home in Alpharetta GA, let's figure out how much it is worth. Simply click HERE  for the Alpharetta GA Home Value Tool and in 30 seconds you will know what your Alpharetta GA home value is worth.

Your report will include real estate information for your area including number of average days a house was on the market, number of houses for sale, asking and sold prices, specific listings and a map of those listings for sale and sold. 

Find your Alpharetta GA Home today:

Alpharetta GA homes for sale under $200,000
Alpharetta GA homes for sale $201,000-$300,000
Alpharetta GA homes for sale $301,000-$400,000
Alpharetta GA homes for sale $401,000-$500,000
Alpharetta GA homes for sale $501,000-$600,000
Alpharetta GA homes for sale $601,000-$700,000
Alpharetta GA homes for sale $701,000-$800,000
Alpharetta GA homes for sale $801,000-$900,000
Alpharetta GA homes for sale -DREAM HOMES!

Alpharetta is what it claims itself to be: Awesome! With approximately 54,000 residents and located less than 25 miles from Atlanta, Alpharetta offers its residents a thriving culinary scene, luxury accommodations, exciting recreation, trendy entertainment and endless shopping opportunities. The schools are top rated - both public and private. Homes are stunning! With golf communities, swim/tennis communities and communities with their own private lake, you will find a variety to choose from.  Take a visual drive through Alpharetta today by clicking HERE.


Alpharetta GA Home Value Tool

Alpharetta Georgia Home Prices

Alpharetta Georgia Home Prices

Alpharettta Georgia Home Prices presented by 
The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty 678-665-2887
http://www.mevhomes.com
5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30005

Alpharetta Georgia home prices today are ready for you to buy or sell. Alpharetta is what it claims itself to be: Awesome! With approximately 54,000 residents and located less than 25 miles from Atlanta, Alpharetta offers its residents a thriving culinary scene, luxury accommodations, exciting recreation, trendy entertainment and endless shopping opportunities. The schools are top rated - both public and private. Homes are stunning! With golf communities, swim/tennis communities and communities with their own private lake, you will find a variety to choose from.  Take a visual drive through Alpharetta today by clicking HERE. Start searching for your new Alpharetta, Georgia home below.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team - Alpharetta Georgia Real Estate Specialists - Contact us today! 678-665-2887

My real estate team and I are experts in this local area, we bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate here. It's not the same everywhere, so you need someone you can trust for up-to-date information. We are eager to serve you. Here are some of the things our team can do for you:
Find Your Next Home
You need someone who knows this area inside and out! Our team has lived and worked in the North Atlanta area for years. We can work with you to find the right home at the right price for you, including all the neighborhood amenities that matter - not to mention the essential criteria you have for your ideal home
Sell a Home
When it's time to move, you need someone who will advertise your home, show to prospective buyers, negotiate the purchase contract, arrange financing, oversee the inspections, handle all necessary paperwork and supervise the closing. Our team can take care of everything you need, from start to close.
Consult on Home Selling Tactics
Oftentimes buyers don't visualize living in your home the way you do. We can make your home attractive to its ideal audience - which can help you get top dollar. Things like staging the home, making repairs or minor improvements, or even simply painting the walls can be the difference between a home resting on the market and one that's sold fast.

Alpharetta Georgia Home Prices

Selling Your Alpharetta, GA Home This Winter

Selling Your Alpharetta, GA Home This Winter

Selling Your Alpharetta, GA Home This Winter

by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty

http://www.mevhomes.com

678-665-2887

Oh baby it’s cold outside. Winter is on its way to Alpharetta, Georgia. Step outside and feel that nip in the air. If you are considering selling a home in Alpharetta, GA during the cold winter months this could be the perfect time for you. Some home sellers are going to believe the hype that the spring market is the best time to sell. These unmotivated sellers will pull their listings off the market. They are making it easier for you to sell your Alpharetta, GA home now! Less home inventory in Alpharetta, GA means a better price for your home.

Strategies to help you sell that Alpharetta, GA home include:

1.   Create a cozy warm nest:

Selling a home in Alpharetta, GA during the winter months can be an opportunity to show it as warm and inviting. Light some scented candles, start a fire in the fireplace, or simmer some potpourri on the stove.

2.   Show a burst of color:

Advertise with pictures of the home in spring/summer. This gives the home buyer an idea of what great landscaping lies ahead with the arrival of warmer weather.

3.   Adjust the thermostat:

Make your home warm and inviting when the home buyer steps in from the cold. If they’ve just toured an empty home, yours will be so much more inviting.

4.   Price it right:

Selling your Alpharetta, GA home during the winter is not the time to test the market. You will have fewer showings, but those who are looking for a home during the winter months are more serious buyers. Price your home right for the market.

If you have been considering selling a home in Alpharetta, GA know that winter home buyers are just waiting for that perfect home to come on the market – YOURS! Contact TheMary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty – Alpharetta Luxury Home Specialists – 678-665-2887

Alpharetta Real Estate: See Homes for Sale in Alpharetta by Price Range:

Alpharetta Homesunder $200,000

Alpharetta Homes$201,000-$300,000

Alpharetta Homes$301,000-$400,000

Alpharetta Homes$401,000-$500,000

Alpharetta Homes $501,000-$600,000

Alpharetta Homes$601,000-$700,000

Alpharetta Homes$701,000-$800,000

Alpharetta Homes$801,000-$900,000

Alpharetta DREAMHOMES $901,000+

 Selling Your Alpharetta, GA Home This Winter

Understanding Today's Home Buyer

Understanding Today's Home Buyer

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty 678-665-2887

Understanding today's home buyer will help you be more competitive in the real estate market. As the seller, you can control three factors that will affect the sale of your home:

* The home's condition
* Asking price
* Marketing strategy

However, it's important to note that there are numerous other factors that influence a buyer, and you need to understand these consumer trends when you enter the sellers' market. The more your home matches these qualifications, the more competitive it will be in the marketplace. Your real estate agent can advise you on how to best position and market your home to overcome any perceived downsides.

Location
Unfortunately, the most influential factor in determining your home's appeal to buyers is something you can't control: its location. According to the National Association of REALTORS(r), neighborhood quality is the No. 1 reason buyers choose certain homes. The second most influential factor is commute times to work and school.

Size
While some buyers want to simplify their lives and downsize to a smaller home, home sizes in general have continued to increase over the decades, nearly doubling in size since the 1950s. Smaller homes typically appeal to first-time home buyers and "empty nesters," or couples whose children have grown up and moved out.

Amenities
Preferences in floor plans and amenities go in and out of fashion, and your real estate agent can inform you of the "hot ticket" items that are selling homes in your market. If your home lacks certain features, you can renovate to increase its appeal, but be forewarned: That's not always the right move. Using market conditions and activity in your neighborhood as a gauge, your agent can help you determine whether the investment is likely to help or hinder your profit margin and time on the market.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty is ready to assist you in listing, marketing and selling your home.  We provide:

1. The Local Advantage - Take advantage of a broad spectrum of technologies and tools to support the sale of your home from start to close.
2. Internet Advertising - Since the lion's share of home buyers starts their search on the internet, top placement on search engines is essential. You'll gain access to placement on Google, MSNBC, and other websites. This will maximize your exposure and bring a large number of potential buyers to view information about your home.
3. Email Campaigns - It's important to "work the network." We can work together to identify the right people to target your home-and get in touch with them by email to drive excitement and interest.
4. Personal Touch - Of course, technology alone won't sell your home. Face-to-face interaction provides the advantage to sell your home-and you won't have to worry about a thing. The details will be handled with care and constant communication, to ensure the marketing and sale of your home go smoothly.

Our team specializes in luxury homes in the communities of North Atlanta including Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell, Milton and Johns Creek. We are located at 5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100 Alpharetta, GA 30005

Contact us today at 678-665-2887 or visit us our site by clicking here

Home Listing Syndication

Your home can be advertised on websites all across the web, making sure buyers see your home and everything it offers. Here are some of the national sites where your home will appear:



CONTACT US TODAY - The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty * 678-665-2887 * 

Understanding Today's Home Buyer

Selling A Home During Holidays

Selling A Home During Holidays

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty - 678-665-2887

Selling A Home During Holidays.  In the housing market, the assumption is that this is NOT the time to sell your home until after the new year. Right? WRONG!!!

Here are reasons for Selling A Home During Holidays:


1.   You'll have fewer showings. THIS IS GOOD because....people that are looking for houses to purchase during the holidays are much MORE SERIOUS BUYERS!! They’ve put aside time to pursue their home search during one of the busiest times of the year. Do not ignore these buyers!

2.  Unmotivated sellers- some sellers are going to believe the hype about the Spring market being the best and only time to sell your house. These are unmotivated sellers and they are going to pull their listings off the market and wait for March next year when everyone else is on the market too. That’s ok. They’re making it easier for you to sell your house right now!

3.  There will be less demand for your particular house since the supply of houses dramatically increases in January.  Less inventory means a better price for your home!!

 4.  Decorated houses for the holidays show better.

 5.  Buyers may be more emotionally excited during the holidays therefore are more likely to pay your asking price.

 6.  Buyers have an increased time to look for a house during the holidays than they typically do during the work week with the added holidays breaks.

 7.  There are buyers that need to purchase before the end of the year due to tax reasons.

 8.  January BIG time for relocating- most companies that have to move or relocate employees target January for those moves. That means housing decisions are being made in November-December, during the holidays. Again, these are motivated buyers with a hard deadline. Don’t ignore them.

 9.  You can still restrict showings of your house during the six or seven days around the holidays. 

10. Sell now for more money and delay the closing until early next year if possible!

11.  You may have a greater opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the spring and will put you in a better spot to purchase a home for less money.

Are you ready to Sell A Home During Holidays? Visit this link on how to increase your homes appeal and get it ready for sale.  Contact us today to determine if you are in a place to list your house for sale.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty
678-665-2887
5780 Windward Parkway
Suite 100
Alpharetta, Georgia 30005








Selling A Home During Holidays

2013 Holiday Bazaar In Alpharetta

2013 Holiday Bazaar In Alpharetta

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty (678-665-2887)

Presents

2013 Holiday Bazaar In Alpharetta

Thursday, November 14, 2013 In Crooked Creek Golf Club

Join us at 3345 Wolf Willow Close, Alpharetta, Georgia

10am-2pm & 6pm-9pm

The 2013 Holiday Bazaar in Alpharetta offers beautiful gifts for everyone on your gift list. Bring your friends and enjoy stress free shopping while enjoying some tasty treats for yourself. 2013 Holiday Bazaar items include:

THIRTY-ONE GIFTS

THIRTY-ONE GIFTS - see all the thermals, purses, totes and accessories offered, most of which can be personalized to mean even more. From organizing your home to carrying everything you need while on the go.

PAMPERED CHEF - shop items to help you sprinkle on the cheer this holiday season. Find budget-friendly gift ideas, festive holiday recipes, and fun entertaining tips. Make this holiday season the best one yet!

MARY KAY COSMETICS - shop items for you and your friends. Find everything from skin care, makeup, sunscreen, fragrance and items for that man in your life. Every woman has her own unique needs, interests and budget. This is your event and your time to enjoy, play, laugh and catch up with friends! Bring a girlfriend and experience all the products Mary Kay has to offer!
 

ORIGAMI OWL - JEWELRY

ORIGAMI OWL - every jewelry creation serves as a reminder of who you are, where you have been, where you are going and the dreams you carry in your heart. So look inside yourself to create fun, fashionable, meaningful jewelry that is as unique as you are.

CABI - what could be better than shopping for clothes in the privacy of a home? Come find that perfect piece of fashion for all the ladies in your family or treat yourself to a whole new wardrobe this holiday season.

CABI

Join us November 14th and enjoy a one stop shopping experience. Directions to the 2013 Holiday Bazaar in Alpharetta are:  GA 400 NORTH EXIT 11, TAKE LEFT ON WINDWARD, Right , LEFT INTO SUBDIVISION, TAKE RIGHT ON WOLF WILLOW CLOSE, HOME IS ON THE END OF THE STREET - 3345





For more information contact The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty - 678-665-2887



2013 Holiday Bazaar In Alpharetta

Practicing Good Seller's Etiquette

Practicing Good Seller's Etiquette

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty 678-665-2887

Let's face it, when your house goes on the market, you're not only opening the door to prospective buyers, but also sometimes to unknown vendors and naive or unqualified buyers. As with any business transaction, there is an expected protocol to how sellers, buyers and their respective agents interact. Should you find yourself in a sticky situation, alert your agent so he or she can address and remedy the problem. Here are some tips for practicing good seller's etiquette:

The Aggressive Agent
When your agent puts your house on the market, typically all promotional materials state clearly that your agent is the primary contact for buyers and buyers' agents. However, sometimes a buyer's agent will contact a seller directly to try to either win over their business or cut the seller's agent out of the deal. This is not reputable behavior and you should report it to your agent immediately if it happens to you.

The Unscrupulous Vendor
Have you ever started a business or moved into a new house and suddenly found your mailbox full of junk mail? Unfortunately, this also can happen when you put your house on the market. When you sell your home, it necessitates all kinds of new purchasing decisions and less-than-ethical vendors are keenly aware of this. Though MLS organizations enforce rules on how posted information is used, some companies have found ways to cull information from various sources to produce mass mailing lists. If you find yourself regularly emptying your mailbox of junk, let your agent know. He or she can tap the appropriate sources to prompt an investigation into the matter.

The Naive Buyer
Yard signs, Internet listings and other advertisements can generate a lot of buzz for your home. Some prospective buyers - particularly first-timers - will be so buzzed to see your home that they'll simply drop by. If this happens, no matter how nice these unexpected visitors are, it's best not to humor their enthusiasm by discussing your home or giving an impromptu tour. Instead, politely let them know that your real estate agent is in charge of scheduling tours and provide them with the agent's contact information. If you attempt to handle these surprise visits on your own, you might inadvertently disclose information that could hurt you during negotiations down the road.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty is ready to assist you today in selling your home. When you're looking for a partner to help you negotiate the complexities of selling a home, you've come to the right place. The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty  (678-665-2887) are experts in the North Atlanta Georgia areas, including Milton, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Roswell, Dunwoody, Cumming, Suwanee, and Duluth. The experience, dedication and strong communication you'll receive here will help ensure the successful and profitable sale of your home. We provide:


1. The Local Advantage - Take advantage of a broad spectrum of technologies and tools to support the sale of your home from start to close.
2. Internet Advertising - Since the lion's share of home buyers starts their search on the internet, top placement on search engines is essential. You'll gain access to placement on Google, MSNBC, and other websites. This will maximize your exposure and bring a large number of potential buyers to view information about your home.
3. Email Campaigns - It's important to "work the network." We can work together to identify the right people to target your home-and get in touch with them by email to drive excitement and interest.
4. Personal Touch - Of course, technology alone won't sell your home. Face-to-face interaction provides the advantage to sell your home-and you won't have to worry about a thing. The details will be handled with care and constant communication, to ensure the marketing and sale of your home go smoothly.

Home Listing Syndication

Your home can be advertised on websites all across the web, making sure buyers see your home and everything it offers. Here are some of the national sites where your home will appear:












Practicing Good Seller's Etiquette

How Can A Real Estate Agent Help Sell My North Atlanta Home

How Can A Real Estate Agent Help Sell My North Atlanta Home 

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty 678-665-2887

10 Questions to Ask Your Realtor about Selling a House

1. Are you a full-time professional real estate agent? How long have you worked full time in real estate? How long have you been representing buyers? What professional designations do you have?
   Knowing whether or not your agent practices full time can help you determine potential scheduling conflicts and his or her commitment to your transaction. As with any profession, the number of years a person has been in the business does not necessarily reflect the level of service you can expect, but it is a good starting point for your discussion. The same issue can apply to professional designations.
2. Do you have a personal assistant, team or staff to handle different parts of the purchase? What are their names and how will each of them help me in my transaction? How do I communicate with them?
   It is not uncommon for agents who sell a lot of houses to hire people to work with them. As their businesses grow, they must be able to deliver the same or higher quality service to more people. You may want to know who on the team will take part in your transaction, and what role each person will play. You may even want to meet the other team members before you decide to work with the team. If you have a question about fees on your closing statement, who would handle that? Who will show up to your closing?
3. Do you have a Website that will list my home? Can I have your URL address? Who responds to emails and how quickly? What's your email address?
   Many buyers prefer to search online for homes because it's available 24 hours a day and can be done at home. So you want to make sure your home is listed online, either on the agent's Website or on their company's site. By searching your agent's Website you will get a clear picture of how much information is available online.
4. How will you keep in contact with me during the selling process, and how often?
   Some agents may email, fax or call you daily to tell you that visitors have toured your home, while others will keep in touch weekly. Asking this question can help you to reconcile your needs with your agent's systems.
5. What do you do that other agents don't that ensures I'm getting top dollar for my home? What is your average market time versus other agents' average market time?
   Marketing skills are learned, and sometimes a real estate professional's unique method of research and delivery make the difference between whether or not a home sells quickly. For example, an agent might research the demographics of your neighborhood and present you a target market list for direct marketing purposes.
6. Will you give me names of past clients?
   Interviewing an agent can be similar to interviewing someone to work in your office. Contacting references can be a reliable way for you to understand how he or she works, and whether or not this style is compatible with your own.
7. Do you have a performance guarantee? If I am not satisfied with your performance, can I terminate our listing agreement?
   In the heavily regulated world of real estate, it can be difficult for an agent to offer a performance guarantee. If your agent does not have a guarantee, it does not mean they are not committed to high standards. Typically, he or she will verbally outline what you can expect from their performance. Keller Williams? Realty understands the importance of win-win business relationships: the agent does not benefit if the client does not also benefit.
8. How will you get paid? How are your fees structured? May I have that in writing?
   In many areas, the seller pays all agent commissions. Sometimes, agents will have other small fees, such as administrative or special service fees, that are charged to clients, regardless of whether they are buying or selling. Be aware of the big picture before you sign any agreements. Ask for an estimate of costs from any agent you contemplate employing.
9. How would you develop pricing strategies for our home?
   Although location and condition affect the selling process, price is the primary factor in determining if a home sells quickly, or at all. Access to current property information is essential, and sometimes a pre-appraisal will help. Ask your agent how they created the market analysis, and whether your agent included For Sale by Owner homes, foreclosed homes and bank-owned sales in that list.
10. What will you do to sell my home? Who determines where and when my home is marketed/ promoted? Who pays for your advertising?
    Ask your real estate agent to present to you a clear plan of how marketing and advertising dollars will be spent. If there are other forms of marketing available but not specified in the plan ask who pays for those. Request samples or case studies of the types of marketing strategies that your agent proposes (such as Internet Websites, print magazines, open houses, and local publications).

How can a real estate agent help sell my North Atlanta home? You'll find the answer with The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty (678-665-2887). The team is ready to assist you today in selling your home. When you're looking for a partner to help you negotiate the complexities of selling a home, you've come to the right place. The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty are experts in the North Atlanta Georgia areas, including Milton, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Roswell, Dunwoody, Cumming, Suwanee, and Duluth. The experience, dedication and strong communication you'll receive here will help ensure the successful and profitable sale of your home.

How Can A Real Estate Agent Help Sell My North Atlanta Home