I’m Off to Preview Homes for Relocating Buyers, and I’ve Got My Preview Kit with Me

I do a fair amount of previewing of homes, especially for relocating buyers who do not know the area and are not nearby to explore.

I expect you do the same, even for clients in your area.

So often what sounds great to the buyers in the MLS turns out not to be quite what they want, because of location, views, interior configuration, or other issues. I don’t want to waste their time when they are in town for a house-hunting trip.

And I like to be prepared, if time permits, so we don’t walk into a home based on MLS info and find it not at all like it is described, or to find some other condition that is conveniently not mentioned – the autobody shop next door, the room called a bedroom without a window or closet.

Previewing helps me better understand my clients’ needs and I can provide feedback to them. I also get to know the neighborhood.

So what do I take in my House Preview Kit?

MLS SHEETS WITH ALL THE DETAILS – I can verify accuracy of information, like number of bedrooms and baths, and other details.

CAMERA – a must, as I always take a bunch of photos to share with buyers who are out of the area (I ask permission). So often the MLS has only a few photos that really are not helpful. And I take photos of the exterior, the yard, the neighborhood, and views (if any).

VIDEO CAMERA – my new camera takes great HD video but I still like my Flip camera in terms of ease, and the size of the video file. Buyers enjoy getting a video tour of the home and of the nearby area.

MEASURING TAPE – you never know when you might need it, and some buyers have had very specific size requirements that are not addressed in the MLS – the width of a hallway or a particular door. I always remind them that they should check this out themselves, too.

DROID – there are several reasons. First, if I want to quickly upload a photo or video I can (and it helps if my brain goes dead and I forget the digital and video cameras).

Also, have YOU ever walked a potential buyer through a home on the phone? I have, many times. I have found it useful to get the buyer(s) on the phone while I am touring so I can describe things as I see them and answer their questions in real time.

Lastly, there are sometimes important questions that often come up that require a quick call to the listing agent.

BUYER FILE – this has all my notes, copies of MLS sheets, and in particular those details the buyers have told me are a MUST HAVE that may be something I won’t necessarily remember. And if the buyers have completed the Lifestyle Questionnaire or What’s Important in Your Home Search Questionnaire I have those bits of information to check out while previewing.

NOTE PAD – gotta have something to jot notes down, questions, or to sketch out a rough floor plan.

On my way now to see a few things for several sets of out-of-state buyers. Thanks for stopping by!

2/12/12 NOTE: I just downloaded a COMPASS and LEVEL app for my Droid. I have gotten a number of questions from buyers about "what direction does this house face?" Now I can offer an answer that is hopefully better than a guess.