BE SURE – Moving can be extremely stressful, be as certain as you can be that it’s the right move for you before you go. If possible visit the country before you make up your mind, don’t rely on other people’s impressions. Ask yourself if the new culture will really suit you (and your family).

BE PREPARED – …For anything and everything to go wrong. Don’t assume that you’ll be able to find the perfect job or house immediately. If possible make sure you’ve got enough money to see you through the first couple of months at the very least (preferably longer). And to do that you’ll need to…

BUDGET – As unglamorous as it sounds, good budgeting could be what makes the difference between a successful relocation and a disaster. Before you go, work out what everything is going to cost during those crucial first months when you’re trying … Read more

Did you know that you can sell your home and save commission using the latest ‘for sale by owner’ methods which are available? This means that you can profit and profit in a very big way by seeking out the services of a company that’s designed to help you sell your home so that you can skip using an agent all together. Pretty great, don’t you agree?

Nobody is crazy about the idea of using a realtor and for good reason. The typical real estate agent can be a rather arrogant person and somewhat pushy. He may insist that you follow his set of rules. He might tell you that you have to re-arrange your furniture multiple times or do something like buy new curtains so that your home ‘looks right’ in his eyes. Plus, he will undoubtedly give you all types of other directives which you may not appreciate … Read more

Usually, when someone is beginning the process of purchasing a home, they first choose their real estate agent, they finally find a house, and then that agent refers them to a home inspector. However, it may actually be more beneficial for home buyers to reverse this, choosing your home inspector first and then asking their opinion on a real estate agent.

Do not get home inspectors wrong here. We know that a vast majority of real estate agents really do care about the home buyer. However some can be influenced and motivated to act in ways that are less in the best interest of the buyers. We have known real estate agents to never use a home inspection company for anyone except for themselves or family.

Real estate agents are paid on commission, and that commission doesn’t come unless a home buyer makes a purchase. The agent needs you to … Read more

We all need the help of a professional occasionally, especially if we’re tackling a big project that’s outside of our normal area of expertise. So when it’s time to buy a home, it’s smart to hire a real estate professional, also known as a real estate agent. Why? Because:

THE AGENT IS EXPERIENCED

Many agents have years and years of experience working with home buyers and sellers. Indeed, many are pseudo-psychologists because they can “read” their clients and determine their needs and preferences. An experienced, knowledgeable real estate agent will be able to guide you to homes or property that he/she feels will suit you and your family. Many will also let you know if the house if “over” or “under” priced, and will guide you as you bid on a home. Their experience is invaluable when it’s time to sign the contracts and complete the paperwork, too.

THE AGENT … Read more

When you go to school to become a real estate agent, one of the first things you learn about is Fiduciary Duty. It is a keystone of integrity for anyone in the business, and is discussed again and again in your continuing education as an agent. It is also a basic component of the Code of Ethics to which every Realtor is bound.

But what exactly is fiduciary duty? Let’s begin with a simple acronym: CARLOAD. There are seven tenets which define fiduciary Duty:

Confidentiality-any information divulged by the client is kept in utmost confidence, and NOT SHARED with anyone. Think doctors and lawyers.

Advocacy-the agent has client’s best interests at heart, and will go to the greatest lengths to ensure the best possible outcome for them.

Reasonable care-the agent makes sure all processes are completed in a timely manner, follows up … Read more