Today's Realtor is more than a Tour Guide

I have several listings right now that are older homes - remodeled and then put on the market, hoping for a higher offer than they might have gotten before the remodel.

Therein lies two problems.

1. Problem One: Over-improvement.

2. Problem Two: The general public's perception of today's real estate agent's job description.

The definition of over-improvement is simply that the improvements done on a home can not be recouped through a sale.

Why does a homeowner allow this to happen? Usually it's because of Problem Two. The general public simply does not realize that today's real estate agent is much more than a tour guide.

I'm working on a mailing, maybe even a seminar, explaining the benefits of using an experienced realtor BEFORE you think about selling and BEFORE you think about remodeling.

Why is this important? Because of the over-improvement issue. A realtor has the experience to know what should and more importantly, what should NOT, be done during a home-improvement project.

My listing that are problems are ones that have been gloriously updated, but the cost of those glorious updates have priced themselves right out of the area market comparisons. Granite countertops are great, but they don't bring much value if every other recent sale in the neighborhood was at $35,000 less than what the remodel cost. Stainless steel appliances look great, but if the garage door is peeling and a huge tree needed cut done instead, just to pass any FHA inspections, than those stainless steel appliances are virtually a waste of money.

Those issues can be avoided if a homeowner would consult with a real estate agent before proceeding with any remodeling projects. Perhaps even visiting the neighborhood homes for sale to see what a true comparison might actually be.

We are more than tour guides. We are consultants, counselors, stagers, advice-givers, market analyzers, mathematicians, visionaries, project supervisors, and the list goes on.

PLEASE contact your realtor before considering any home improvement projects. If you don't have a realtor, give me ajingle and I will find you one.

Dee Nofziger, REALTOR

findahometoledo@gmail.com
ask-dede.com