Buying a home is very exciting! It is also very complicated and most buyers do not fully understand all aspects of the buying process and the role a real estate agent plays. Naturally you may have a few questions. If you have additional questions that I do not address here, just ask!

How much will it cost me to hire you?

Hiring me will not cost you a penny. My compensation will come from the seller's proceeds at the closing of the transaction.

Can you give me information regarding properties that are listed by companies other than Windermere?

Yes. The Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) hosts listings from every real estate agency that is a member of the MLS. As a result, the MLS is essentially an all-in-one home shopping network that real estate brokers access. The only properties not included in the NWMLS are properties that are listed "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO). As a result we are unable to inform you about these properties.

What if I find a home that is listed For Sale By Owner (FSBO) that I am interested in purchasing?

I can still represent you, negotiate your purchase and handle the entire transaction. In many cases the seller is expecting an agent to bring and represent a buyer and is willing to compensate the agent. In other cases buyers enter into an agency agreement with their agent and it is the buyer who has the responsibility to compensate the agent for services rendered.

What if I find a property on my own?

I expect you to be searching for homes online as it is fun and interesting! You also may come across a home for sale while you are driving. If you find listings online, email or call me with the MLS number(s). If you are driving try to note any information you can about the home and address and contact me. I can access the information for the home you are interested in to determine the availability and price and to learn more about what the home has to offer. If you are interested in seeing the interior of a home we can schedule a showing.

Can we look at homes anytime?

We can preview a home that is vacant at anytime. However, if a home is owner-occupied we must schedule a time with the homeowner. If tenants are occupying a home they are entitled to 24 hours notice prior to showings.

Can I go to open houses without you?

Yes. However, make sure you indicate to the agent who is holding the open house you are working with me. If you are interested in attending open houses let me know and I will give you a handful of my business cards to supply to agents you will encounter. If you do not inform other agents you are working with us there could be negative ramifications for both of us. In some extreme cases, I might not be able to represent you if you decide to purchase that property in the future. Many open houses, especially new construction neighborhoods, have site policies that reduce my commission if I am not present at all showings, including the open house. The best course of action is to communicate to the agent that you are working with me to prevent any negative consequences.

Please keep in mind that I like to go house shopping with you! I enjoy getting to know you and learning about your tastes and preferences. The more homes we look at together and the more feedback I receive from you, the better I can help you find the best match. However, if you happen to stumble across an open house when I am not with you, feel free to check it out.

What if I am unhappy and want to switch agents?

I want and encourage an open line of communication. If I am not meeting your expectations please tell me! I want to know your preferences and opinions and appreciate the opportunity to discuss any frustrations you may be experiencing. I am confident I will exceed all of your expectations. However, if you are unhappy with my services and we are unable to work out our differences, I will respectfully part ways and you can hire another agent.