As either a buyer or seller, hiring a real estate agent is an invaluable service that can assist in the difficult process. They offer insights into neighborhood trends and market data as well as providing you with properties matching your criteria – saving time by narrowing down the number of houses to visit!
Local knowledge
An Austin real estate agent can be your partner in navigating its complex and dynamic real estate market. He or she can offer insights into neighborhood trends and help make decisions that align with your goals. A reputable agent should also know about upcoming development projects that might impact property values – details which are invaluable both as homebuyers and sellers.
Real estate agents with extensive knowledge of an area can save both time and money when searching for property, as they will be able to narrow your search with tailored listings of options and provide insight into amenities and history that is vital when selecting an appropriate neighborhood.
When selecting a real estate agent, be sure to select one with extensive local experience and an impeccable reputation in your community. When checking credentials, ensure they have been granted by Texas. Keeping track of how long an agent has been operating as well as their number of transactions completed can provide insight into their expertise level.
Megan Jarrard Bradshaw has been practicing real estate in Austin for more than 15 years and possesses an in-depth knowledge of its various neighborhoods, from Barton Springs’ natural splendor to Mueller’s urban charm. Her client-centric approach, integrity, and open communication has won her the respect of both peers and clients alike.
She is a licensed Realtor at Spyglass Realty and boasts extensive knowledge of Chicago’s residential communities and new construction market, along with new home sales. As an active partner to her clients, she assists them in reaching their real estate goals easily and confidently.
Lindsay is a third-generation Austinite who brings her love of Austin and unique perspective to each transaction. Her extensive knowledge of its various neighborhoods allows her to help clients find homes that suit their lifestyle best. Outside of work, Lindsay enjoys exploring Austin’s food scene as well as running along Lady Bird Lake.
Lissa Gray Anderson has over two decades of experience facilitating over $200 million in luxury real estate sales, and serves as a trusted advisor to her clients. Her depth of market knowledge and extensive network ensure the highest standard of service; in her free time she enjoys visiting local boutiques and listening to live music performances.
Searching for a home
Real estate agents are professionals who can assist in finding you the perfect home at your budget. Their knowledge of local neighborhoods can make the search less time-consuming and stressful; they can even negotiate on your behalf and assist with paperwork and negotiations with sellers on your behalf. However, not all real estate agents are equal so before choosing an agent, ask about their experience, track record and education; professionals should have a license to sell homes as well as membership of National Association of Realtors(r).
Start your home search efficiently by making a list of non-negotiable needs and wants that cannot be compromised upon. Prioritize these items during property visits. A real estate agent can also assist in narrowing your search by helping to focus on certain types of properties or even neighborhoods.
Take your time when viewing potential homes and imagine yourself living there, from placing furniture in the living room and making breakfast in the kitchen to testing outlets and showers to see if they work efficiently. Also take note of any backyards; this will give an indication of what it would look like with fencing or landscaping installed.
Although your new home might not meet all your desires, its location should still be an important consideration. Be sure to explore its surrounding neighborhood by looking at schools and commute times. In addition, make sure it offers all the amenities needed by you and consider safety as part of the equation.
Austin real estate market began 2023 with a median home price of $675,000 and median sales price per square foot of $446. Inventory levels remained flat throughout the year and average days on market (DOM) averaged at 84 days; however, Altos Research reports that seller’s market is slowly becoming buyer’s market as evidenced by an increase in median home price by 27% since beginning 2023.
Buying or selling a home
Real estate agents can be invaluable assets when buying or selling a home. Their experience will ensure you receive the best price, while helping make decisions about timing depending on factors like financial needs of family members and current market conditions.
Looking to purchase or sell a home? Make your search easier with Zillow’s directory of local real estate agents and brokers. Compare agents based on customer reviews, listing inventory and past sales history as well as viewing their profile page to view contact info and current listings.
Selling your home requires careful thought. Depending on the current state of the real estate market, there may be good reason to wait before listing price recommendations from a real estate agent may increase chances of an easy sale.
Some individuals prefer selling their homes without using an agent; this process is known as for sale by owner (FSBO). Although less common, this route could be suitable for certain sellers looking for greater control in pricing the sale of their home without incurring commission payments to an agent or buyer’s agent commissions.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently approved new rules that will alter the real estate industry, in an attempt to protect consumers and promote ethical practices within it. Some changes include restricting real estate agents’ compensation packages; mandating written agreements between broker and buyers before entering contracts with them and prohibiting automated calling systems from use in transactions.
NAR members can still claim they hold a Realtor license, but its primary function will remain connecting people to qualified real estate professionals. NAR provides networking, ongoing education and community involvement opportunities. Furthermore, it actively advocates for beneficial legislation while offering access to resources which help real estate professionals expand their businesses.
Negotiating a deal
Real estate agents are professionals who facilitate home buying and selling transactions, with expertise in Austin real estate market assisting buyers and sellers understand their options and negotiate for the best possible deals for both parties involved. When working with a real estate agent it is essential to remain calm while listening to them so they can negotiate on your behalf to secure the best deals while giving you all of the information needed to determine if a property is worthwhile purchase.
When buying a new home, it is essential to do your research on sales data from similar homes in your neighborhood. This will give you an idea of the amount that homes like this cost, whether the market favors buyers or sellers and whether the location and condition match your dream house criteria. When visiting properties for sale or lease in person or online it can also provide valuable insight.
Although you may have an ideal home price in mind, that does not guarantee it will be accepted by lenders. Your credit score, mortgage rates and other factors all play a part; an agent can guide you through this process to find something within your budget that works for you.
Real estate agents can help you negotiate better deals by providing sales and inventory statistics in your area. Furthermore, they can assist with negotiating real estate commissions that may be significant expenses when selling a home. If unsure of how much to pay a real estate agent in commission rates to compare them against similar local agents.
Home sellers with experience understand the power of regional insight when creating their negotiation strategy. From Austin’s emerging tech scene to San Antonio’s historical significance, a real estate agent familiar with regional specifics can use unique selling points as leverage points in order to spark a balanced bidding war.