Does Your Realtor Have Your Best Interests In Mind?
With the recent Charlotte Observer articles regarding irregularities with builders and their lenders being accused of not keeping the buyers best interest in mind, one may ask: Where does the role of a Buyer’s Agent come in to this equation? Would Realtor® representation have prevented some of those foreclosures? Possibly.
We feel that our number one role especially when dealing with first time homebuyers is to act as their advocate and protector. What Irv and I often tell our clients is that, “We will more likely tell you what NOT to do, rather than what TO do.” We can bring our experience to bear and keep an eye out for things that are potentially not in the best interest of our client. These can include suspicious lender practices, deals that are “too good to be true”, or even a seller or their agent trying to cut corners at the expense of our client. There are times when our buyers choose not to heed our advice, and ultimately, it is their decision, but we at least want to point out the potential downside of any decision.
When I first got into the practice of real estate, I was told that if you take care of the client’s best interests, your business will grow. In the five years since I’ve joined Schwebel & Associates, this has proven to be absolutely 100% true. By following this golden rule, our business has grown by leaps and bounds without having to sacrifice our integrity, or compromise our clients well being in any way.
It is not only important to be represented by a buyer’s agent, it is equally important to be sure that that agent has your best interests in mind. Whether you choose to work with our group or another, make sure that you are represented by someone who’s in your corner.
Land For Sale in Charlotte - 44 ACRES!
Schwebel & Associates just listed 44 acres prime for development on Robinson Church Road in northeast Charlotte. Currently zoned R-3, this is actually two parcels being sold as a single unit. We will not subdivide it for sale - it is only available as a single unit. There is 1500′ of frontage along Robinson Church Road! The land is fairly level, mostly open, with some slightly wooded areas. Utilities are all located nearby. This is perfect for developers! Call our office for more information.
Home Ownership: A Right or A Privilege?
Should everyone own a home no matter what their credit history is like? Does past performance dictate future performance? Every time I think I’ve heard or seen it all some new twist happens that makes me wonder what is going on. Do lenders and my colleagues (yes I said colleagues) represent their clients for the right reason or for the "what’s in it for them"? Do they really think about the client and what’s best for them? I don’t think so. If we really cared for the client, lenders and some Realtors wouldn’t push to get them in way above their head only to have the buyer feel that they are drowning in debt! Foreclosures will reach an all time high because lenders allow 125% refinance mortgages on homes that aren’t worth what the buyer paid for initially.
I would rather have my clients wait a while until they save some money, have something vested in their home so they would be less likely to walk away when the times get tough. To this Realtor home ownership is a privilege and one that is earned by saving your money, paying your bills on time and being prepared for what comes with owning a home which is responsibility. We make it too easy to buy a home, way too easy! So I ask you - is home ownership a right or privilege? You be the judge. Let’s hear it out there. How about some voices other than mine…
Picking The Right Builder or “Cheaper isn’t always better”
Building a home is not painful if you plan, select and research! Do you homework. Would you marry someone if they weren’t the right mate? If the two of you aren’t compatible would you get married? Well the same goes for selecting a builder.
Your first line of defense is a qualified Realtor®. A qualified Realtor® who knows this aspect of the industry is worth their weight in gold. Does a builder’s reputation go a long way? You bet it does! Just ask me who the better builders are and my experiences with them.
Have I had horror stories? Rarely do I have them and that’s because my clients listen to my recommendations. Yes they do listen to me. When they don’t they listen problems occur. Call me some time if you want to hear about them.
Is cheaper always better? In the housing industry, cheaper isn’t always better. Remember price is what you pay and value is what you get! I’ve said it before and will continue to say it. There are reason’ why a builder has a fine well respected following. Contact our office today - let’s talk about about the better builders!
