4 Reasons to Buy a Home This Winter!


Here are four great reasons to consider buying a home today instead of waiting.

1. Prices Will Continue to Rise

CoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index reports that home prices have appreciated by 7.0% over the last 12 months. The same report predicts that prices will continue to increase at a rate of 4.7% over the next year.

The bottom in home prices has come and gone. Home values will continue to appreciate for years. Waiting no longer makes sense.

2. Mortgage Interest Rates Are Projected to Increase 

Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey shows that interest rates for a 30-year mortgage have hovered around 4%. Most experts predict that rates will rise over the next 12 months. The Mortgage Bankers Association, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the National Association of Realtors are in unison, projecting that rates will increase by this time next year.

An increase in rates will impact YOUR monthly mortgage payment. A year from now, your housing expense will increase if a mortgage is necessary to buy your next home.

3. Either Way, you are Paying a Mortgage

There are some renters who have not yet purchased a home because they are uncomfortable taking on the obligation of a mortgage. Everyone should realize that unless you are living with your parents rent-free, you are paying a mortgage – either yours or your landlord’s.

As an owner, your mortgage payment is a form of ‘forced savings’ that allows you to have equity in your home that you can tap into later in life. As a renter, you guarantee your landlord is the person with that equity.

Are you ready to put your housing cost to work for you?


4. It’s Time to Move on with Your Life

The ‘cost’ of a home is determined by two major components: the price of the home and the current mortgage rate. It appears that both are on the rise.

But what if they weren’t? Would you wait?

Look at the actual reason you are buying and decide if it is worth waiting. Whether you want to have a great place for your children to grow up, you want your family to be safer, or you just want to have control over renovations, maybe now is the time to buy.


If the right thing for you and your family is to purchase a home this year, buying sooner rather than later could lead to substantial savings.

OPEN HOUSE TODAY! SUNDAY Dec. 17th

Sunday at 3:00-5:00pm459 KENDRY, Bloomfield Twp 48302


Don't let the outside fool you, this is a sprawling, decked out masterpiece! Hardwood floors thru entire house. Grand great room with vaulted ceiling, balcony, wall of windows and views into kitchen and breakfast nook. Separate dining room (or another family room) with gas fireplace and brick wall and hearth.








Home office with french doors, and separate formal living room. Sprawling cherry kitchen with dark granite and stainless appliances and snack bar. Master suite with his/hers walk-in closets, separate sitting room with sliding door to private deck, granite bath with euro shower and spa tub. Two additional bedroom suites with baths and w/in closets. Finished basement with 8 person theatre room with pro-programmed, auto-operating projector. Billiards room and separate exercise room. Enormous deck complete with swings and views of the backyard. Inside or out, this is the perfect entertaining house! Centrally located, award winning Bloomfield Hills schools. BATVAI

Watch the Virtual Tour:
http://tours.mixedmediaco.com/75194/459-kendry-bloomfield-hills-mi-48302

Contact Paul Mychalowych for more details:
248-935-2754

Renting or Buying…Either Way, You’re Paying Someone’s Mortgage




There are some people who have not purchased homes yet because they are uncomfortable taking on the obligation of a mortgage. Everyone should realize that, unless you are living with your parents rent-free, you are paying a mortgage – either yours or your landlord’s.

As Entrepreneur Magazine, a premier source for small business, explained in their article, “12 Practical Steps to Getting Rich,”

“While renting on a temporary basis isn’t terrible, you should most certainly own the roof over your head if you’re serious about your finances. It won’t make you rich overnight, but by renting, you’re paying someone else’s mortgage. In effect, you’re making someone else rich.”

Christina Boyle, Senior Vice President and head of the Single-Family Sales & Relationship Management organization at Freddie Mac, explains another benefit of securing a mortgage vs. paying rent:

“With a 30-year fixed rate mortgage, you’ll have the certainty & stability of knowing what your mortgage payment will be for the next 30 years – unlike rents which will continue to rise over the next three decades.”

As an owner, your mortgage payment is a form of ‘forced savings’ which allows you to build equity in your home that you can tap into later in life. As a renter, you guarantee the landlord is the person with that equity.

Interest rates are still at historic lows, making it one of the best times to secure a mortgage and make a move into your dream home. Freddie Mac’s latest report shows that rates across the country were at 3.94% last week.

Bottom Line

Whether you are looking for a primary residence for the first time or are considering a vacation home on the shore, now may be the time to buy.

OPEN HOUSE! 459 KENDRY, Bloomfield Twp 48302

459 KENDRY, Bloomfield Twp, Michigan 48302

$577,000 4 BD 4.2 BA 3,921 SqFt

OPEN HOUSE This Saturday & Sunday! Dec. 9th & 10th, 2017 at 3:00-5:00pm

Click the image above for the drown video

Don't let the outside fool you, this is a sprawling, decked out masterpiece! Hardwood floors thru entire house. Grand great room with vaulted ceiling, balcony, wall of windows and views into kitchen and breakfast nook. Separate dining room (or another family room) with gas fireplace and brick wall and hearth. Home office with french doors, and separate formal living room. Sprawling cherry kitchen with dark granite and stainless appliances and snack bar. Master suite with his/hers walk-in closets, separate sitting room with sliding door to private deck, granite bath with euro shower and spa tub. Two additional bedroom suites with baths and w/in closets. Finished basement with 8 person theatre room with pro-programmed, auto-operating projector. Billiards room and separate exercise room. Enormous deck complete with swings and views of the backyard. Inside or out, this is the perfect entertaining house! Centrally located, award winning Bloomfield Hills schools. BATVAI

Contact Paul Mychalowych for more details: 248-935-2754

20 Home Gadget Gift Ideas to Fit Any Budget

Looking for the perfect present for a loved one this holiday season? We’ve rounded up 20 of our favorite gift ideas. And since we work in real estate, we focused on items that add enjoyment, comfort and, in some cases, major value to your home.

From music lovers to home chefs, we’ve got something for everyone. And we’ve included a range of price points to suit any budget, from under $50 to major splurge … in case you’re feeling extra generous this year. We hope you find this list useful in identifying gifts your friends and family will love. And maybe some of these items will make your wish list this year, too!

Approximate Price Ranges
$ - under $50
$$ - $51 to $200
$$$ - $201 to $500
$$$$ - Splurge


LET IT SNOW

Heat things up this holiday season! Keep your loved ones cozy all winter with these gifts that add warmth and a touch of luxury.

Tabletop Fireplace - $
On cold nights, nothing beats the comfort and glow of a fire. Whether you’re looking to cozy up on the couch with a good book, or enjoy a relaxing night in the backyard with family and friends, a tabletop fireplace is an easy way to light up your evening. The Regal Flame Black UtopiaTabletop Fireplace can be used indoors or outdoors, no vent required. It runs on ethanol, which can be mixed with citronella to double as a mosquito repellent for outdoor use.

Towel Warmer - $$
Who wouldn’t love to wrap themselves in a warm towel when they step out of the shower on a cold morning? While heated towel racks are available in a variety of styles and price points, the Anzzi Glow 4-Bar Electric Towel Warmer in Polished Chrome is an entry level version that gets good reviews. Modern and elegant, this model plugs into a nearby outlet for easy installation and is made of rust-resistant stainless steel. Turn your daily shower into a spa-like experience!

Smart Thermostat - $$$
Now you can wake up to a warm house, even if you like it cool while you sleep. After using the Nest Learning Thermostat for a week, it will start to recognize your patterns and adjust the temperature automatically to your preferences. In its third-generation, Nest claims to pay for itself over time in energy savings. It uses sensors and your phone’s location to check if you’ve left the house, then sets itself to an Eco Temperature. And this smart-thermostat knows when you typically get home from work and can heat things up before you return. If your schedule changes, you can even adjust the temperature remotely from your smartphone.

Radiant Floor Heating - $$$$
Radiant heating has been a popular alternative in new construction to traditional forced-air heating systems. And new technology has made it easier and less expensive to retrofit existing homes with radiant heating. According to BobVila.com, “radiant floors are heated either with electric resistance cables or hot water flowing inside tubing” beneath the floor. It’s energy-efficient, effective, and doesn’t blow dust and allergens around the way forced-air systems do. Not only will you love stepping onto a heated floor on a cool morning, you’ll be adding value to your home, as this is an appealing upgrade to buyers when it comes time to sell.


ROCK AROUND THE TREE

It’s holiday music time! Music lovers are sure to appreciate these gifts guaranteed to enhance their listening experience throughout the home.

Showerhead Speaker - $
Whether you enjoy singing in the shower, or listening to your favorite podcast, the H2oVibe Rain Showerhead Jet with Wireless BluetoothSpeaker syncs with any bluetooth-enabled device so you can stream your favorite music or other audio directly into the shower. The waterproof speaker easily detaches from the showerhead so you can bring it with you from room to room while you get dressed. And the showerhead itself features jets with three times more spray power than the average showerhead, creating a spa-like experience.

Voice Controlled Smart Speaker - $$
Smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Home not only stream music on demand via voice control, they can also serve as a central hub for numerous other smart-home devices. Now you can change the channel on your TV, make a phone call, turn on your lights, set your thermostat and lock your front door, all without lifting a finger.

High-End Wireless Speaker - $$$
If you prefer a premium speaker, the Sonos Play:3 is the mid-range option in the brand’s line of wireless speakers. It delivers rich and robust sound with a sleek design that can placed horizontally or vertically to fit almost any space. Sonos speakers sync with Amazon Echo and Alexa, which enable you to control the speaker with voice commands. And you can easily add additional speakers from the Sonos line for an enhanced, surround-sound experience.

Whole Home Audio System - $$$$
The sky’s the limit when it comes to whole-home audio systems, and for a premium sound system you can expect to make a significant investment. Companies like Yamaha offer a wide variety of components, all designed to work in conjunction to give you a customized whole-home audio and home theater system to suit your needs.


ADD SOME SIZZLE TO THE SEASON

Home chefs will love these gifts, perfect for holiday entertaining and home cooking all year long. Not only will they bring excitement to the recipient, everyone in the family will benefit from the delicious dishes these gifts are sure to inspire!

Bread Maker - $
Warm, fresh bread can make any meal feel special. With a bread machine like this one from Hamilton Beach, you can enjoy fresh rolls, pizza dough, cakes, jams, flatbreads and croissants with minimal effort. Plus, there’s a gluten-free setting, which makes this a perfect gift for anyone avoiding gluten in their diet.

Electric Smoker - $$
If you love to barbecue, the Char-Broil DeluxeDigital Electric Smoker gives you the tenderness and flavor of smoking meat, without the hassle. The integrated meat probe alerts you when the meat reaches a predetermined internal temperature, and when it’s done cooking the “warming” feature keeps your food hot until it’s ready to be served.

Smart Sous-Vide Machine - $$$
Sous vide is a method of cooking in which food is vacuum-sealed in a plastic pouch and then placed in a water bath to cook at a precise temperature. The new Mellow Smart Sous Vide Appliance hits the market this holiday season and promises to make sous vide as easy and foolproof as a slow cooker. Its built-in cooling system keeps your food cold until it’s ready to be cooked … so you can stick a piece of salmon in before you leave for work, choose the time you want it to be ready, and dinner will be done when you get home.

High-End Oven Range - $$$$
To really heat things up in the kitchen, any home chef would love a new high-end range, like this 36” Dual Fuel Range with Six Burners from Sub-Zero Wolf. With ten custom cooking modes—including one for proofing dough and one for dehydrating—and a temperature probe alert, this oven makes cooking almost foolproof. And the timeless stainless steel design will enhance the beauty of any kitchen. Investing in a high-end range not only adds enjoyment to meal preparation, it’s highly-desired by home buyers … something to consider if you plan to list your home within the next few years.


SPARKLE AND SHINE

Holiday lights aren’t the only way to make a home sparkle. These cleaning gadgets and appliances will keep your home clean and shiny all year long … and hopefully bring some joy to the cleaning process!

Portable Deep Carpet Cleaner - $
Anyone who has pets or young children will love the convenience of a cordless and portable spot cleaner like the BISSELL SpotLifter 2XPortable Deep Carpet Cleaner. Its cleaning brush agitates soiled spots while simultaneously sucking up debris. Use it to remove small spills and stains from carpet, furniture, rugs, drapes, car seats, and other upholstered items.

Robotic Vacuum Cleaner - $$
Robotic vacuum cleaners have been around for years, but new technology has made them more effective and lowered the cost significantly. The ECOVACSDEEBOT N79 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner provides a good mix of features and value. It offers several cleaning modes and moves easily from rugs to tile to carpet. You can also control it with your smartphone using the ECOVACS App.

Dishwasher - $$$
While a high-end dishwasher with all the bells and whistles can certainly be a good investment, there are some great values on the market for those with a more modest budget. For example, the Maytag Front Control Dishwasher gets consistently great reviews for its powerful motor that disintegrates bits of food to deliver sparkling clean dishes, even without rinsing. And its elegant exterior will upgrade the look of your kitchen … all without breaking the bank.

New Washer/Dryer - $$$$
If anything can make laundry exciting, it’s a new washer and dryer with smart-technology like the Kenmore Elite Smart Washer and Dryer. Now you can start a load of laundry remotely from your smartphone to time it with your arrival home. You can also customize washer and dryer cycles and receive an alert when a cycle is complete. And with the Express cycle, you can wash and dry a small load in 45 minutes, saving you time and energy.


KEEP THE GRINCH AWAY

Nothing is more important than the safety of you and your family. Protect your loved ones—and deter intruders—with gifts that keep you and your home safe and secure.

Smart Light Bulbs - $
The Philips Hue White Smart Bulb Starter Kit is a good entry-level investment in smart lighting technology. Now you can automate your lighting and control your lights from your smartphone using the Philips Hue App. Deter burglars by making it look like someone’s home when you turn your lights on remotely. And stay safer by never entering a dark house again. Plus, it has several options to enhance the look and ambiance of your home lighting.

Video Doorbell - $$
Watch over your home and greet visitors from your computer or smartphone with a video-enabled doorbell, like the Ring Video Doorbell 2.  Adjustable motion sensors alert you when someone is approaching your door, and live video and audio allow you to see and talk to visitors without opening the door, even if you’re away from home. The best part is, they’ll never know you’re not home if you don’t tell them.

Smart Lock - $$$
Control and monitor your locks from anywhere with a smart lock like the August Smart Lock Pro + Connect. Now there’s no need to leave a key under the doormat or give a copy to the housekeeper. You can activate keyless access remotely, and even lock up when they leave, all from your computer or smartphone. And no more fumbling around for your keys in the dark. Similar to keyless entry for your car, Smart Lock Pro automatically unlocks your door when you approach.

Security System - $$$$
An in-home security system is still one of the best ways to protect your home and family from intruders and alert you to the presence of smoke or carbon monoxide. Some companies, like Vivint, can integrate your security system with video monitoring, a doorbell camera, smart locks, garage doors and even your thermostat. Prices vary depending on the options you select, and a monthly monitoring service is required, but a home security system can bring peace of mind knowing your family and home are protected.


WE’RE HERE TO HELP

As real estate professionals, we get to visit people’s homes every day and talk to buyers and sellers about their favorite features. So we have a unique insight into the elements that truly make a house special, bring joy to homeowners and add value to a home.  Did we miss your favorite home-related gift? If so, we’d love to hear about it. Please share in the comments below!

If you do decide to “splurge” on a home upgrade, contact us for recommendations on the best options for your particular home. Buyer expectations and preferences vary depending on price point, style of home and neighborhood. We can run a comparative market analysis to find out how the upgrade you're considering will impact the value of your home, before you make the investment.



OPEN HOUSES TODAY!

DEC. 3, 2017 - SUNDAY AT 3:00-5:00PM



4050 IRONSIDE, Waterford Twp, Michigan 48329
$179,900 3 BD 1.1 BA 1,560 SqFt

Seller is offering land contract terms .Home is also for LEASE $1350 per month (MLS# 217097325)
For more info/photos, click below:


459 KENDRY, Bloomfield Twp 48302
$577,000 4 BD 4.2 BA 3,921 SqFt

Don't let the outside fool you, this is a sprawling, decked out masterpiece! Hardwood floors thru entire house. Grand great room with vaulted ceiling, balcony, wall of windows and views into kitchen and breakfast nook.
Or click the photo below to watch the DRONE VIDEO:




5 Reasons to Sell This Winter!

             

Here are five reasons listing your home for sale this winter makes sense.

1. Demand Is Strong
The latest Buyer Traffic Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that buyer demand remains very strong throughout the vast majority of the country. These buyers are ready, willing and able to purchase… and are in the market right now! More often than not, multiple buyers are competing with each other to buy a home.

Take advantage of the buyer activity currently in the market.

2. There Is Less Competition Now
Housing inventory is still under the 6-month supply that is needed for a normal housing market. This means that, in the majority of the country, there are not enough homes for sale to satisfy the number of buyers in the market. This is good news for homeowners who have gained equity as their home values have increased. However, additional inventory could be coming to the market soon.

Historically, the average number of years a homeowner stayed in their home was six, but has hovered between nine and ten years since 2011. There is a pent-up desire for many homeowners to move, as they were unable to sell over the last few years because of a negative equity situation. As home values continue to appreciate, more and more homeowners will be given the freedom to move.

The choices buyers have will continue to increase. Don’t wait until this other inventory comes to market before you decide to sell.

3. The Process Will Be Quicker
Today’s competitive environment has forced buyers to do all they can to stand out from the crowd, including getting pre-approved for their mortgage financing. This makes the entire selling process much faster and much simpler as buyers know exactly what they can afford before home shopping. According to Ellie Mae’s latest Origination Insights Report, the time to close a loan has dropped to 44 days, after seeing a 12-month high of 48 days in January.

4. There Will Never Be a Better Time to Move Up
If your next move will be into a premium or luxury home, now is the time to move up! The inventory of homes for sale at these higher price ranges has forced these markets into a buyer’s market. This means that if you are planning on selling a starter or trade-up home, your home will sell quickly, AND you’ll be able to find a premium home to call your own!

Prices are projected to appreciate by 4.7% over the next year according to CoreLogic. If you are moving to a higher-priced home, it will wind up costing you more in raw dollars (both in down payment and mortgage payment) if you wait.

5. It’s Time to Move on With Your Life
Look at the reason you decided to sell in the first place and determine whether it is worth waiting. Is money more important than being with family? Is money more important than your health? Is money more important than having the freedom to go on with your life the way you think you should?

Only you know the answers to the questions above. You have the power to take control of the situation by putting your home on the market. Perhaps the time has come for you and your family to move on and start living the life you desire.

That is what is truly important.

O-P-E-N H-O-U-S-E! Tomorrow, Sunday Nov. 19 - 1964 BLUE GRASS Court, Rochester Hills

Tomorrow, Sunday Nov. 19 @ 3:00pm to 5:00pm

1964 BLUE GRASS Court, Rochester Hills 48306 - MLS ID 217083094 || Birmingham Realty LLC.


Move in Ready! Meticulously maintained, this home is in pristine shape, it feels like a new home! Spacious and sprawling, this home has a formal living and dining room with large windows with transoms and crown moldings. The Library has double doors, a 10' ceiling, bay window and gorgeous oak floors. Cooks kitchen complete with speckled granite and large eat-at island. Breakfast area has desk and door wall to treed back yard. Open Great room boasts 2 story wall of windows, balcony from second floor and cozy gas fireplace.



Four spacious bedrooms upstairs all with natural oak floors and spacious closets, Jack and Jill bath for 2 of the bedrooms, En suite for the third, all with skylights. Master suite boasts a tray ceiling, separate his and hers closets, dressing area and cathedral ceiling bathroom with jetted spa tub, and separate shower. Central Vac. Quiet cut-de-sac location with private back yard, and award winning Rochester Hills schools make this the perfect home! BATVAI

For more details, click here:
Presented By: Paul Mychalowych of Birmingham Realty LLC.
Cell: 248-935-2754




OPEN HOUSE THIS SATURDAY & SUNDAY!

 2411 SAINT JOSEPH, West Bloomfield Twp, Michigan 48324

List Price: $172,900 | 3 BD 1.1 BA 1,500 SqFt

Beautiful spacious ranch! Open floor plan that centers around a cozy 3 sided red brick fireplace. Gorgeous newer kitchen with granite, neutral tumbled tile backsplash and stunning cherry cabinets. Newer appliances. Glass barn door leads to spacious laundry area with tons of storage, and a bonus room with built-ins, could be a spacious den. Airy dining area with huge window overlooking the lush back yard complete with perennial and herb gardens, stone fire pit and adorable shed for all your tools.




Three oversized bedrooms, and an oversized classic full bath with original tile work. Separate half-bath has just been re-done with wainscoting and cabinet, sink and faucet. Weatherguard windows still under warranty, new electrical and plumbing, new patio, newer hot water heater. Home has been meticulously maintained. Centrally located, neighborhood park has over 15 miles of trails, minutes from restaurants, shops, yet easy access to expressways. BATVAI
Call: PAUL MYCHALOWYCH at 248-935-2754




OPEN HOUSE! 2411 SAINT JOSEPH, West Bloomfield Twp


Beautiful spacious ranch! Open floor plan that centers around a cozy 3 sided red brick fireplace. Gorgeous newer kitchen with granite, neutral tumbled tile backsplash and stunning cherry cabinets. Newer appliances. Glass barn door leads to spacious laundry area with tons of storage, and a bonus room with built-ins, could be a spacious den. Airy dining area with huge window overlooking the lush back yard complete with perennial and herb gardens, stone fire pit and adorable shed for all your tools. Three oversized bedrooms, and an oversized classic full bath with original tile work. Separate half-bath has just been re-done with wainscoting and cabinet, sink and faucet. Weatherguard windows still under warranty, new electrical and plumbing, new patio, newer hot water heater. Home has been meticulously maintained. Centrally located, minutes from restaurants, shops, yet easy access to expressways. BATVAI

OPEN HOUSE THIS SUNDAY - OCT 29TH - 4050 IRONSIDE, Waterford Twp, Michigan 48329


Great Quad-level with tons of potential! Newer Roof and Eagle Lake Beach Access. Huge private lot! 


Spacious, open floor plan with vaulted and beamed ceiling in living room. Huge breakfast nook and open kitchen. Lower level which is at ground level has large family room with natural fireplace brick hearth and mantle, and half bath. Open rail between living room and family room adds to the spacious feeling.


Additional library/den area on lower level could be music room or computer area. Master bedroom has private door to bathroom, and walk-in closet. Large shared bathroom. Door wall in Living room to spacious, private back yard and patio. Newer Roof. Car lovers dream garage is oversized 2.5 car size, insulated, heated and has water hook-up. Two built-in work benches and two windows to let all the sunshine in. Deeded beach and lake access on Eagle Lake. BATVAI

Also for LEASE $1350 per month.

For more details/photos, click below:
http://www.greaterdetroitsuburbs.com/property/217074696/

CONTACT: PAUL MYCHALOWYCH 248-935-2754

OPEN HOUSE TOMORROW! SUNDAY Oct 8th GROSSE POINTE SCHOOLS!


COME JOIN US!

Totally Updated! This fabulous, spacious ranch has been updated with top of the line materials and workmanship. Gorgeous stone fireplace in living room sets the focal point, while tons of accent lights in the ceiling details set the mood. Open floor plan allows for great entertaining! New kitchen boasts top of the line stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, ceramic floor and huge eat-at island with tons of storage. Or eat in the dining room with beautiful views of the living room.


Open House! 45647 HECKER Drive, Utica

JOIN US TOMORROW!

45647 HECKER Drive Utica, MI 48317 - MLS ID 217087599 || Birmimgham Realty LLC.


Presented By: Paul Mychalowych  of Birmingham Realty LLC.
Cell: 248-935-2754

This spacious, open colonial has been updated with just the right touches of souther charm and elegance. 
For more details, click here:



The Consumer’s Guide to Hiring an Amazing Real Estate Agent



When you’re buying or selling a home, it’s crucial to work with a qualified real estate agent. Not just a professional, but an amazing agent and a market expert. So how do you ensure you’re hiring an amazing real estate agent?

There are currently more than two million real estate professionals in North America.1,2 With so many options to choose from, how does a prospective home buyer or seller choose the right agent or broker? According to the National Association of Realtors®, trust and reputation are the top deciding factors consumers use when hiring an agent.3

But how do you measure trust and reputation ... and what criteria can be used to help you make your decision?

In this guide, we've outlined the top attributes that amazing agents possess, as well as the questions you can ask to make sure you’re working with the right market expert to achieve your real estate goals.


5 ATTRIBUTES OF AN AMAZING AGENT

As we mentioned above, not all real estate professionals are the same. And it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the options and information about working with real estate professionals to buy or sell your home. In fact, many real estate markets are oversaturated with agents.

To help you understand what makes top agents and market experts stand apart from the competition, following are five key attributes of an amazing agent:

1. A Pricing Specialist

If an agent has their real estate license, they know the basics of the transaction process. They know what goes into buying and selling a home. However, there’s a difference between knowing the process and navigating it for an ideal result. This ideal result often means buying or selling a home for the best price.

For buyers, amazing agents have a strong understanding of market trends, competition, and how to make your offer attractive to sellers. They can help you identify and secure a deal to ensure you get the home you want, within your desired budget.

If you’re selling a home, market experts have experience pricing homes optimally for the market, and creating pricing plans to minimize the time spent selling the home. This will help you sell for your desired price, and avoid costs like additional mortgage and utility payments.


Takeaway: Whether buying or selling a home, pricing can be tricky. Market experts can help navigate best-possible pricing strategies, and also secure the home you want within your budget.


2. An Effective Time Manager

It’s common to underestimate the amount of time it takes to buy or sell your home. The average real estate agent may not be utilizing the latest tools and technology to make the transaction easier and more cost effective for their clients. Market experts have tools and strategies at their disposal to minimize the amount of time you spend on the process.

For sellers, market experts can make sure you only deal with qualified buyers, not the “window shoppers” who can waste your time. We also utilize the latest marketing practices to advertise and price your home effectively, ensuring it gets sold quickly.

When looking to buy a home, inexperienced agents may waste your time by showing you homes that are not a good fit for you. A market expert knows how to prioritize your needs and wants to find you the ideal home within your budget. They also know how to spot “red flags” and can steer you away from homes that are likely to turn up major issues in a real estate inspection, saving you time and money.

In addition, well-networked Realtors can gain access to the hottest listings before many websites do. Their extensive professional networks can help identify “pre-list” homes before they’re officially on the market. This can be invaluable in a highly-competitive real estate market.


Takeaway: Even a well-intentioned agent may not have the skills, tools or technology to make the experience easy for you. There are lots of hidden activities that may take up unexpected time, and a market expert will save you time and energy.


3. A Market Insider

While most agents can pull market stats about a neighborhood, community or city, they may not understand important trends or developments that would affect your transaction. These can include the state of the school district, issues with a homeowner association, new businesses in the area, zoning rules or trends in home prices.

Market experts live and breathe local real estate and know the trigger points for buying and selling in this market. We also stay current on effective marketing and negotiation practices, resulting in our track record of success.

For sellers, we understand what features of your home and neighborhood are assets in the selling process. And for buyers, we share a deep understanding of market factors, including school and neighborhood quality, crime statistics, speed of sales and more.


Takeaway: Getting relevant and specific market knowledge can be difficult and time consuming, which is why many real estate agents don’t have it. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, an experienced real estate agent is often the best source of information about a city, neighborhood, or even street … we’re literally conducting market research every day.


4. A Strong Negotiator

Amazing agents truly set themselves apart in their ability to negotiate. Unfortunately, a large portion of agents don’t commit their full time to increasing this key skill.

Real estate negotiations can be challenging, even for seasoned professionals. It takes skill, experience and a knowledge of how to fight for your client’s best interests. While any agent can enter negotiations to buy or sell a home, they may not know the effective strategies to exit those negotiations with the result you want.

Experienced Realtors focus on negotiation as a key skill. We understand what to do before entering negotiations (establishing the upper hand to set up the best outcome), as well as during the process (when to offer or accept concessions).


Takeaway: Many agents can feel the stress of the negotiation process, and may agree to terms of the buyer/seller. Working with a market expert will help ensure you get the best deal, not just the fastest deal.


5. An Effective Closer

Closing a deal fast is often a good thing. For buyers, it means you found the home you wanted quickly. For sellers, it often means you can avoid the added expenses of mortgage and utility payments, and maximize the value of your home sale.

However, an agent solely focused on speed can make decisions that aren’t in your best interests. Top real estate professionals know how to not only achieve your real estate goals quickly, but in the right way to avoid potential pitfalls.

Just like negotiations, the paperwork and process of closing a real estate transaction are complicated. And they can be overwhelming for the average agent who hasn’t handled a lot of transactions. Sales contracts, property disclosures, occupancy agreements and even lead paint records need to be executed with precision. Your agent not only needs to be familiar with these, but also stay current on any changes in requirements or regulations.

Market experts have a strong understanding of real estate contracts, timelines, clauses and contingencies within the closing process. In fact, avoiding pitfalls during the closing process is where many sellers find an experienced Realtor is a huge asset.


Takeaway: Many agents don’t have a firm understanding of contracts. Because a real estate transaction often involves a significant investment, even a small mistake can mean serious trouble. With that in mind, it’s often best, and most responsible, to work with a true market expert.


5 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT

So how do you know if you’re working with an amazing agent?

The first step would be to “shop around.” Many people work with the first agent they come across without a firm understanding of their level of experience. It’s always a good idea to interview a number of agents before selecting one. If you’ve gotten referrals from people you trust, then you may only need to interview 2-3 agents.

However, it can be tough to know what to ask in the interview process. Here are some questions that can help you qualify the best agent to help you achieve your real estate goals:

1.     Can you send me some information about yourself?
Look for professionalism and consistency. What are their professional accomplishments? Also, try to identify how they approach their work. Look for a business person who has a strategy and solid support system. If they’re a newer agent, ask about their team’s dynamic and accomplishments.

2.     How long have you been in real estate?
The average Realtor has 10 years of experience4. But while longevity is important, even more telling are the number of transactions they have closed or been involved in. So feel free to also ask: “How many homes have you sold in this area?”

3.     What will you do to keep me informed?
Do you want daily or weekly reports from your agent? Will the agent be able to meet these expectations? Determine how much communication you want, and then find an agent who will give you the attention and time you want and deserve.

4.     Can you provide me with further resources I may need?
From market reports and pricing trends to school performance and crime statistics, top agents have resources at their disposal. In addition, market experts have built strong relationships with their extended team of professionals, and can often get expedient service or be able to “cash in a favor” for you should a need arise.

5.  Seller only: Can you share with me your plan to market my property? Many agents will simply put your home in the MLS and wait for it to sell. An amazing agent should have a detailed plan of how to get your home exposure on social media, to their local networks, and more.


GET STARTED

Now that you’re armed with the 5 Attributes of Amazing Agents and the Top Questions to ensure you work with the best possible real estate agent, you’re ready to start interviewing agents.

We’d love an opportunity to win your business. Schedule a free consultation with us to find out how true market experts can help you achieve your real estate goals!


Sources:
3.     National Association of REALTORS –

OPEN HOUSE TODAY! 36725 GREENSPRING ST | FARMINGTON HILLS | 48331


Unbelievable opportunity to live in the gated community of Ramblewood. Home has been updated with million dollar finishes you will need to see to believe. Open the front door and the sweeping, floating staircase greets you. Exquisite Wainscoting details throughout entire home, coffered ceilings, built-ins, tons of extra millwork, the list goes on and on.

For more details, click below:

Contact: Paul Mychalowych at 248-935-2754

OPEN HOUSE! Tomorrow, Sept 14 THURSDAY 190 MILLRACE ROAD | BIRMINGHAM

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Quarton Lake Waterfall views from this home!
OPEN HOUSE! Tomorrow, Sept 14 THURSDAY at 11am to 1pm
Join us!!

HOME FOR SALE! 190 MILLRACE ROAD | BIRMINGHAM | 48009

The most relaxing setting in Birmingham. Sit on your patio and listen to the gentle Quarton lake waterfall just steps from your front door. Spectacular contemporary home with open, airy spaces. Grand Great Room greats you with it's soaring ceilings, views of the forest out the wall of windows, and stately marble floors. State-of-the-art, updated eat-in kitchen with black granite and walls of walnut cabinets. Large open bedrooms and two spacious master suites, one first floor, with updated baths, spa tub and spacious closets. Upstairs loft office has beautiful views of the lake and woods. First floor family room with cozy fireplace and door wall to private tumbled stone patio. Professionally finished basement with wet bar, wine cellar, open TV room, large craft/play space and separate studio area with leaded glass doors. Quiet cut-de-sac location next to the park. Within walking distance to downtown Birmingham's shops, restaurants and entertainment. BATVAI
For more details, click here: http://www.190millrace.com/
CONTACT: PAUL MYCHALOWYCH at 248-935-2754

OPEN HOUSE TOMORROW! 3580 DENSON Drive Sterling Heights, MI 48310

Join us tomorrow!! Sunday (Sept 10) for an OPEN HOUSE at 1-4pm!

3580 DENSON DRIVE | STERLING HEIGHTS

Meticulously maintained and updated ranch on over a half-acre of land! Sprawling and open floor plan make it the perfect home. Quaint, private living room with cozy fireplace. Updated kitchen boasts light Bamboo floors, Lafata cabinets, 2 walls of storage/pantries, Huge open island with seating, the perfect "Cooks" kitchen. Kitchen is open to dining area and family room for easy entertaining. Private Master suite is off the back, beautiful built-ins, spa bathroom with instal-hot water and huge walk-in closet. Three other spacious bedrooms, and updated baths, 1 full and 1 lav complete the first floor. Lower level has full bath, another bedroom or office (with egress windows) and large recreation area. House has updated Hanson windows, roof, HVAC, and most recently, new front door. Perfectly situated near schools, shopping and entertainment. BATVAI


Contact Paul Mychalowych at 248-935-2754

OPEN HOUSE! 23524 CLAREWOOD Street Macomb, MI 48042


O-P-E-N H-O-U-S-E
23524 CLAREWOOD Street Macomb, MI 48042

Desirable Condo in The Retreat. The spacious floorplan is open and spacious and loaded with extra upscale features! Two bedrooms and Two full baths! Great Room with cathedral ceiling and huge windows let all the light in. Open kitchen and eating area overlook great room. Kitchen has beautiful granite counter tops and convenient breakfast bar seating. Bathrooms are large and are fully tiled. Huge second bedroom could be a great rec room. Oversized garage has workshop at one end. BATVAI
Call Paul Mychalowych at 248-935-2754

OPEN HOUSE! 8863 HUNTERS CREEK Drive Clarkston, MI 48348




O-P-E-N H-O-U-S-E
Today!! (Aug. 20th Sunday) at 1:00pm-4pm

5 Bedrooms | 4.2 bathrooms | 6,724 Sq Ft


Just 25 minutes from Birmingham, on an impressive hill-top setting, you will find one of the finest homes in prestigious Deerwood. This Tringali designed French Chateau boasts only the finest in workmanship & materials. Down to the tiniest details, no expense was spared, & only the best was used to build this one-of-a kind home.

Contact: Paul Mychalowych at (248)935-2754

WATCH THE VIRTUAL VIDEO HERE:
www.8863HuntersCreek.com

OPEN HOUSE TODAY! 36725 GREENSPRING Street Farmington, MI 48331



Presented By: Paul Mychalowych of Birmingham Realty LLC.
Cell: 248-935-275

Unbelievable opportunity to live in the gated community of Ramblewood. Home has been updated with million dollar finishes you will need to see to believe. Open the front door and the sweeping, floating staircase greets you. Exquisite Wainscoting details throughout entire home, coffered ceilings, built-ins, tons of extra millwork, the list goes on and on. Eat in kitchen has amazing granite island with seating room for 8, dark cherry cabinets and door wall to private patio and spacious, manicured yard. Huge mudroom and laundry for the busy family. Gorgeous dark hardwood floors grace the entire spacious open floor plan. Two fireplaces, updated baths with granite, tile and euro shower doors. Hardwood in all the large bedrooms. Master bedroom suite includes private balcony, beverage bar, walk-in closet with built-ins and gorgeous bath complete with tub and separate shower. Huge workout room on first floor, but could be converted back into the private den it used to be. BATVAI

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS:
http://tours.mixedmediaco.com/63781/36725-greenspring-street-farmington-hills-mi-48331