Whether it is for open houses or real estate photographers, you want your house to look its best when you are selling it, especially in western NC. No matter who will be entering the home, correctly staging it is a terrific marketing tool that accentuates its advantages and appeals to the broadest range of potential purchasers. See our guide below for tips on how to give your house the finest possible appearance!

What Is the Fuss About Home Staging?

You have undoubtedly seen images of beautifully furnished homes in magazines and social media. These pictures frequently include extremely well-kept houses that may or may not look occupied. Envy and increased asking prices might also result from these excellent photographs. Homes that have been professionally photographed can often fetch a 47% higher asking price per square foot.

Home staging aims to improve curb appeal by adding and rearranging furniture and decor. When you stage a home, you make it look its best to sell it as soon and for the most money as possible. You are “packaging” your house in a way that gives off a welcoming vibe, so potential buyers can picture living there themselves.

1. First Up – It’s Time to Declutter

Decluttering your home is the first step in making it more appealing, even if most people can’t have a spotless house. Spend some time cleaning your house thoroughly and clearing out any clutter that might take up space. Your collection of fly fishing publications or video games won’t interest potential purchasers. Remove stacks of paper, remote controllers, and other trinkets that don’t increase the worth of your house.

Make sure to clean any vents or fans, as well as your windows, floors, and fans. Towels and soap should be brand new in the bathrooms. It’s time to make the beds seem new and renewed. Home buyers prefer to buy a house they might envision themselves moving into tomorrow rather than one that feels lived in.

Additionally, it is important to erase any signs of pets. When a potential buyer walks inside your home, pet toys, kennels, and pet hair can be a huge distraction. If they are allergic to pet dander, they could have a reaction leaving them with a poor first impression, even if your home is immaculate otherwise.

2. Curb Appeal Is Everything

The initial photo in a listing is often a photograph of the outside of your home, and 95% of users spent a total of 20 seconds looking at it. When marketing your home, ensuring that the exterior is in excellent condition can provide a very valuable first impression. Getting your home’s exterior “staged” can be done in several ways, including:

• Pruning your bushes and trees
• Mowing the lawn
• Removing any leaves using a rake
• Clearing the gutters
• Using plants or decorations to fill in empty spaces
• Pressure washing hard exterior surfaces
• Improving the doorknobs and lighting
• Making any outside living areas clean

3. Work Your Way Indoors

Buyers are drawn to large rooms. Remove any garish furniture or extra rugs. Maintain a neutral color scheme for your walls, and be sure to leave any blinds and drapes open. The rooms will appear much larger thanks to natural light.

All of your home’s lights, including those in lamps and closets, should be on during showings. In addition to showcasing every inch of your home, this will spare potential buyers from having to figure out light switches.

Don’t overdo your house staging, though. Make sure to clearly identify rooms by demonstrating to buyers how to make the most of the square footage. Over-styling can give off an unnatural vibe and make your house appear excessively formal. Buyers should be able to physically explore your home without becoming alarmed by excessively intricate details.

4. How Much Should I Budget for Home Staging?

There are a variety of ways in which you could stage your home. If you do it yourself, you may not have the professional expertise, but you can easily stage your home within your budget. By taking on simple repairs and cleaning your house, you can save thousands of dollars in staging fees.

According to a report from the National Association of REALTORs, investing more in the staging of your home can increase your dollar value between 1% and 5%. They also state that for every $100 invested in staging, the potential ROI is $400. So keep that in mind.

With that said, the average cost of a home staging is roughly $1500 a month. While it may seem like DIY’ing your home staging, the time saved can be well worth it. Not only do professional home stagers plan out a design for your home, they also rent out furnishings and get your place looking like someone else’s dream house.

Modern Mountain Real Estate – Your Western North Carolina Real Estate Company

We know how stressful getting a home prepped and ready for going on the market can be. Modern Mountain Real Estate focuses on helping you sell your home by working with you every step of the way. Our agents have a vast knowledge of the western North Carolina real estate market and are here to ensure that selling your home is easy and painless.

Our licensed and experienced real estate professionals have a focus on the western North Carolina real estate market and are ready to sell your house quickly for the highest possible price. Contact us today to learn more about how you can get the most out of selling your home.

The high-mountain peaks, valleys, forests, and streams encapsulating western North Carolina make it a beautiful place to put down roots. Add in historic attractions, great restaurants, and public services, and you have a perfect spot to consider purchasing a home.

For first-time home-buyers, and even those with a bit of experience, taking the first steps toward such a large purchase and life decision can be a daunting process.

First Steps to Take When Buying a Home

Luckily, like anything, if you start with a plan, the process goes much smoother. We have compiled our recommendations for anyone starting the home-buying process.

We aren’t going to put it explicitly in this list, but one recommendation we have is to find a real estate agent or company local to your area. Even if you are still just in the earliest stage of deciding if now is the right time to start the home-buying process, they can help give up-to-date information concerning the market and explain the general process.

With that in mind, let’s get you started on your home-buying journey.

1. Start Saving for the Down Payment

Homes are a big purchase and traditionally, though not always, require a significant down payment. The earlier you have started saving for that initial sum, the better off you will be. If you have difficulty saving, other options exist, such as Private Mortgage Insurance. PMI will increase your monthly costs going forward but helps upfront costs and can get you into a home sooner, while buying prices may be more in your favor.

2. Check Your Credit Score

Purchasing a home almost always includes the need for a mortgage loan, so credit scores are a significant factor in what you will eventually end up owing and how much financial institutions will be willing to provide. As soon as you think that you may be interested in purchasing a home, check your credit score.

The higher your score, the better your loan rates and amounts will be. It will vary by lender and loan type, but most institutions prefer a score of 720 or higher. You should be checking your score at least yearly, but do so before buying a home so you can work on any needed improvements or corrections if something looks off.

3. Look Into Homebuyer Programs

There are thousands of assistant programs throughout the country. Put in a little research for what is available in your area and for your own situation. They all have different requirements and restrictions but can provide help.

Here are a few to look into as you begin your search:

• Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans have minimal down payment requirements and lower credit requirements.
• HomeReady is available to prospective homebuyers below their Area Median Income but with a good credit history.
• The US Department of Agriculture helps offer loans to lower-income borrowers in rural areas.
• Conventional 97 Mortgage, backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, helps first-time home buyers provided they complete a homebuyer education course.

4. Find a Lender and Get Pre-Approved

Contact the lenders available in your area and shop around for quotes from each. Once you have settled on the lender that works best for you, it is time to get pre-approval from them. This gives you an exact number of how much home you can afford during your upcoming search.

This pre-approval is often required before any real estate agent begins the search with you. And while it doesn’t 100% guarantee you that mortgage, barring any drastic changes to your financial situation, it is unlikely it will be denied.

Pre-approval generally takes less than a business day, but be prepared to provide documents such as pay statements, tax forms, and bank statements.

5. Make a Wish List

You probably already have this step covered or at least started. But at this point, sit down and give some serious thought to what it is you want in a home. Take your list and prioritize it. Depending on your family and stage of life, any of the following may have greater weight:

• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Location (work commute and school district considerations)
• Outdoor space
• Square footage
• Type of home
• Layout and interior finishing details.

What you need from the home on your budget and what is nice to have are different considerations. Be prepared to cut some things, and allow yourself the space to fall in love with options you hadn’t considered.

6. Find Your Agent

With your pre-approved budget and wish list in hand, it is time to have a serious sit down with a real estate agent. It can be tempting to try and go it alone, but a good agent can help in the process by:

• Knowing the local market prices and community benefits
• Keeping on top of paperwork and due dates
• Helping you make a competitive offer and negotiate on price adjustments or repairs

Someone who regularly works in the area is always best. Ask around for recommendations if you know people who have recently bought or sold in the area for their honest assessment of the agent used. And if moving into a new area, be sure to research reviews online. Read our article, How to Choose a REALTOR® in Asheville, for more information.

Expert Help Purchasing a Home in Western NC

If you have imagined buying your dream home in Asheville, Arden, or anywhere in the surrounding areas of Buncombe county, contact us today to let our experienced staff help you make it happen.

Century 21 Connected is a locally owned firm focused on providing reliable information on western North Carolina residential and commercial real estate. Our agents love Asheville and the surrounding areas creating a genuine desire to help you find your perfect home.

Our local experts are ready to guide you through the home-buying process. We are committed to fast, professional, and courteous service to help you understand and feel at ease throughout the home-buying process. Our trained and licensed agents specialize in the western NC area real estate market and are prepared to find the right home and get the best price.

At Century 21 Connected, we strive to provide you with a white glove service making the buying or selling process as seamless as possible. We look forward to speaking with you and assisting you in any way possible.

Are you considering investing in rental properties in Asheville, North Carolina? Known for its vibrant arts scene, breathtaking mountain views, and bustling tourism industry, Asheville has become an increasingly popular destination for visitors and residents. And with a thriving economy and a growing population, the demand for rental properties in the area has never been higher.

However, there are challenges for existing and aspiring rental property owners.

Inflation is a term used to describe the general increase in prices of goods and services over time. As inflation occurs, the purchasing power of a currency decreases, and it takes more money to buy the same goods and services.

Inflation can significantly impact the economy, affecting everything from consumer spending to employment rates. And one area where inflation can be particularly impactful is in the rental property market.

How Inflation Impacts Rental Properties

As inflation rises, the cost of maintaining and operating rental properties also increases. This can include everything from property taxes and insurance premiums to maintenance and repair costs. As a result, landlords may need to increase rental prices to cover these additional expenses and maintain profitability.

Additionally, inflation can also impact the demand for rental properties. As the cost of living increases, many individuals and families may struggle to afford a mortgage or save up for a down payment on a home. This can lead to increased demand for rental properties, driving up rental prices even further.

However, it’s important to note that the relationship between inflation and rental prices is not always straightforward. In some cases, other factors, such as changes in the local housing market or shifts in supply and demand, can significantly impact rental prices more than inflation alone.

How to Set Rental Prices During Times of Increasing Inflation

Ultimately, as inflation occurs, landlords may need to consider adjusting their rental prices to keep up with the rising costs of maintaining their properties. And renters may need to budget for higher rental costs as inflation impacts the overall cost of living.

Setting fair rental prices in times of increasing inflation can be a challenge for landlords. On the one hand, landlords need to cover the increased costs of maintaining their properties. On the other hand, they don’t want to price themselves out of the market and risk losing potential (or long-standing and valuable) tenants. So how can landlords set fair rental prices in times of increasing inflation?

1. Research the Local Market

Before setting rental prices, it’s important to conduct thorough research on the local rental market. This involves analyzing similar properties in your area and understanding the average rental price for comparable units.

This research can be done through various online rental marketplaces, local real estate agents, or by speaking with other landlords in the area. By understanding the local market, landlords can set a competitive price point that is attractive to potential tenants and reflects current market trends.

2. Calculate Expenses

To set a fair rental price, it is vital to understand the expenses associated with the rental property. This includes property taxes, insurance premiums, mortgage payments (if applicable), maintenance and repair costs, and other expenses.

Once you have a clear understanding of your expenses, you can calculate a fair rental price that takes these expenses into account. It’s important to ensure that your rental price is sufficient to cover your expenses while also providing a reasonable profit margin.

3. Consider How Inflation Affects Everything

In times of increasing inflation, landlords need to be mindful of the impact on their rental prices. Inflation can cause an increase in the cost of materials, labor, and other expenses associated with rental property maintenance.

As such, landlords may need to adjust their rental prices to cover these additional expenses. It’s important to be aware of the current inflation rate and adjust rental prices accordingly to ensure they are not pricing themselves out of the market.

4. Be Flexible

In times of increasing inflation, landlords must be flexible with their rental prices. This may involve adjusting rental prices as inflation rates change or offering incentives to attract and retain tenants. For example, landlords may offer a discount on rent for tenants who sign a long-term lease or pay their rent early.

By being flexible and responsive to market conditions, landlords can maintain occupancy rates and ensure the profitability of their rental properties.

5. Communicate with Tenants

Clear communication is essential when it comes to setting and adjusting rental prices. Landlords should be transparent with their tenants about any changes to rental prices and explain the reasons behind them.

This can help build trust and prevent misunderstandings down the line. Landlords should also be responsive to tenant feedback and concerns regarding rental prices, as this can help to maintain good tenant relationships and prevent turnover.

How Century 21 Connected Can Help You Manage Your Property During Times of Increasing Inflation

As we’ve discussed, setting fair rental prices in times of inflation can be challenging for landlords. However, with the help of a professional property management company, you can navigate these challenges and ensure that your rental properties remain profitable and competitive in the local market.

At Century 21 Connected, we offer comprehensive property management services designed to help landlords maximize their rental income while minimizing their expenses. Our team of experienced professionals has a deep understanding of the local rental market and can provide valuable insights into rental price trends and inflation rates.

We use advanced technology and data analysis tools to accurately calculate expenses associated with your rental properties and determine a fair and competitive rental price. Our team also stays up-to-date on changes in inflation rates and adjusts rental prices accordingly to ensure that you’re not losing out on potential profits.

By working with Century 21 Connected, you can trust that your rental properties are in good hands. Our team handles everything from tenant screening and lease management to property maintenance and repair, freeing up your time and allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life.

Don’t let inflation negatively impact your rental income. Contact Century 21 Connected today to learn more about our property management services and how we can help you set fair rental prices during times of inflation.

Asheville’s explosive growth has led to a booming housing market in the last few years. Although our area has been growing for decades, since the pandemic, people have moved to Asheville in droves. This has led to increased property values for residents of Buncombe and surrounding counties.

You may have noticed the assessed value of your home increasing during this timeframe. If so, you may be wondering if it’s time to sell. However, your assessed property value and the market value for your home are not the same. In this article, we’ll help you understand the difference so that you can make the right move for your property.

What Is a County Property Assessment?

County property assessments are the process by which the value of a property is determined for taxation. The following are some of the factors involved in county property assessments:

1. Property inspections: A county assessor or inspector will visit the property to determine its physical characteristics, such as the number of rooms, size of the lot, condition of the structure, etc.
2. Market analysis: The assessor will also look at recent sales of similar properties in the area to determine the market value of the property.
3. Property information: Assessors also consider any improvements or additions made to the property, such as a new roof or an addition to the house.
4. Property tax records: The assessor will also review the property’s tax records to see if any exemptions or special assessments apply.
5. Income approach: In some cases, the assessor may use an income approach to determine the property’s value, especially for income-generating properties such as rental properties or commercial buildings.
6. Cost approach: The assessor may also use a cost approach, which considers the cost to replace the property with a similar structure, considering depreciation and obsolescence.

The purpose of county property assessments is to determine the value of a property for property taxation. The assessment determines the taxes a property owner will pay to their local government. The process is usually conducted by a county assessor or a team of assessors, who are responsible for determining the value of all taxable properties in the county.

Factors That Are Considered in Property Assessments

Several other factors can be considered in a property assessment. These can include the location of the property, its age, and its overall condition.

Assessors will also consider any unique property features, such as a pool, a fireplace, or an oversized garage. The value of any improvements or upgrades made to the property will also be considered.

Once the assessor has gathered all the relevant information, they will use various methods to determine the property’s value.

Property Assessment Methods

The most common methods include the sales comparison approach, the income approach, and the cost approach. The sales comparison approach involves comparing the subject property to similar properties recently sold in the area.

The income approach involves estimating the potential income the property could generate if it were rented or leased, and the cost approach involves estimating the cost of replacing the property with a similar structure.

It’s important to note that property assessments are not static and can change from year to year. This can happen for various reasons, such as changes in the local real estate market, changes in the property itself, or changes in the assessment method the assessor uses.

Property owners can appeal their assessments if they believe the value is inaccurate. In most cases, they can request a hearing before a local board of assessors, who will review the evidence and decide.

The Differences Between Your Home’s Assessed Value and Market Value

Property assessments and market value are related but distinct concepts in real estate.

Property assessments are an estimate of the value of a property to determine local property taxes. They are typically performed by local government assessors and are based on the property’s value as of a specific date, such as January 1st of each year.

The assessors take into account various factors, such as the size of the property, the age and condition of the buildings, and the location, among others, to arrive at an assessed value.

Market value, on the other hand, is the price that a property would fetch in the open market if it were put up for sale. It’s the price a buyer is willing to pay for a property, and a seller is willing to accept.

Factors Influencing a Home’s Market Value:

Several factors can influence the market value of a home, including:

• Location: The location of a home is one of the most critical factors that can affect its value. Homes in desirable areas, such as those with good schools, easy access to amenities, and low crime rates, tend to be more valuable than those in less desirable locations.
• Condition: The condition of a home can also impact its value. Well-maintained homes in good condition are generally more valuable than those that are run-down and in need of repair.
• Size: The size of a home is also a critical factor in determining its value. Larger homes with more square footage are typically more valuable than smaller homes.
• Age: The age of a home can also impact its value. Newer homes are generally more valuable than older homes, as they often have modern features and amenities in high demand.
• Upgrades and renovations: Homes that have been upgraded or renovated are typically more valuable than those that haven’t. Upgrades such as new appliances, updated bathrooms, and modern kitchens can increase a home’s value.
• Market conditions: The state of the local real estate market can also impact the value of a home. In a seller’s market, where demand is high and inventory is low, homes are generally more valuable than in a buyer’s market, where supply exceeds demand.
• Economic factors: Economic factors such as interest rates, employment levels, and consumer confidence can also influence the value of a home. In a strong economy, where people have more disposable income, homes are generally more valuable than in a weak economy.

While some of these factors overlap with those that determine a home’s assessed value, it’s important to note they are not always the same. The assessed value is often lower than market value because the purpose of assessments is to determine property taxes, which are usually a fraction of the property’s full value. Century 21 Connected is a Buyer’s Agent in Asheville, NC.

Market value can fluctuate much more rapidly than the assessed value and is usually the higher of the two. Still, Buncombe County has taken strides to close the gap in recent years. For homeowners, if you’re considering listing your home, the best practice is to work with an experienced real estate agent who knows this market. Contact a REALTOR® local to Asheville, NC.

Reach out to the team at Century 21 Connected for more information about buying and selling homes in the Asheville area!

Asheville has become a popular destination for retirees, young professionals, and tourists alike, thanks to its mild climate, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. This has resulted in a robust and diverse local economy, with growth in industries ranging from tourism and hospitality to technology and entrepreneurship.

In recent years, the city has also seen an increase in the number of new restaurants, breweries, and other food and beverage establishments, as well as new music venues, art galleries, and other cultural attractions.

To accommodate this growth, Asheville has undergone significant infrastructure development, with new roads, bridges, and public transportation options constructed to ease traffic congestion and improve accessibility. There has also been a growing effort to preserve the city’s historic architecture and natural landscapes, as well as to address issues such as affordability and sustainability.

Despite these challenges, Asheville’s growth has brought new opportunities for residents and visitors alike. It has helped to establish the city as a vibrant and dynamic center of culture and commerce.

Owning rental property in Asheville is a good investment opportunity, as the city’s growth and popularity have led to a high demand for housing. With a thriving local economy and a growing population, there is a steady stream of renters looking for affordable, high-quality housing.

The Benefits of Owning Rental Property in Asheville, NC

There are several factors that make now a perfect time to invest in rental property in Asheville. Although home prices are certainly increasing, they are still more affordable than in many places in the country. There is a growing demand for housing, which is driving up rental prices and making it easier for landlords to achieve strong returns on their investments.

Additionally, the city’s growing popularity as a tourist destination is creating new opportunities for short-term rental investments, as well as for traditional long-term rental properties.

Overall, owning rental property in Asheville is a smart investment that offers several benefits, including steady rental income, the potential for appreciation, and the opportunity to be a part of a thriving and growing community.

Of course, positive ROI is never guaranteed, regardless of how in-demand housing is. It is important to ensure you’re taking steps to maximize your investment.

Tips for Improving ROI on a Rental Property in Asheville

There are several ways to increase the return on investment (ROI) of a rental property:

1. Raise Rent: Regularly increasing rent in line with market trends can help to boost the ROI of a rental property over time.
2. Improve Property Condition: Making improvements to a rental property, such as updating appliances, fixtures, and finishes, can increase its value and make it more attractive to tenants, helping to boost rental income and ROI.
3. Reduce Operating Costs: Minimizing expenses, such as property management fees, maintenance costs, and utility bills, can help to increase the net income of a rental property and boost ROI.
4. Increase Occupancy: Keeping a rental property fully occupied with reliable tenants can maximize rental income and ROI.
5. Diversify: Investing in multiple rental properties can help to spread risk and provide a more stable, diversified income stream, which can boost overall ROI.
6. Utilize Tax Benefits: Taking advantage of tax benefits, such as depreciation and deductions for mortgage interest, property taxes, and maintenance expenses, can help to lower taxable income and increase ROI.
7. Implement Smart Technology: Installing smart home technology, such as keyless entry systems, energy-efficient appliances, and remote property management tools, can help to increase efficiency, reduce operating costs, and boost ROI.

By following these strategies, landlords can maximize their rental property ROI and achieve long-term financial success. However, one thing you probably don’t have in abundance is time. If you have several properties, or property rental is not your full-time job, it is difficult to find enough hours in a day to implement the strategies you know would help your ROI.

Often, hiring a property management company can help you net more income by improving your ROI and making your expenses a wash.

How Property Management Companies Can Help Improve ROI

• Finding and Vetting Tenants: Good property management companies help you reduce vacancies by finding and vetting great tenants.
• Rent Collection and Accounting: A property management company can handle rent collection and other financial tasks, such as accounting, tax preparation, and maintenance expenses, freeing up the landlord’s time and reducing their workload.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Property management companies have the staff and resources to handle routine maintenance and repairs, reducing the cost and time involved in property upkeep and improving the overall condition of the rental property.
• Legal Compliance: Property management companies stay up-to-date on local, state, and federal rental laws and regulations, helping landlords to avoid potential legal and financial liabilities.
• Occupancy Management: Property management companies can help to maximize occupancy by ensuring that rental properties are kept in good condition, marketed effectively, and priced competitively, increasing the ROI of the rental property.

Overall, by using a property management company, landlords can focus on growing their portfolios and maximizing their investments. In contrast, the property management company handles the day-to-day tasks of managing and maintaining your rental properties.

Residential Management Services offers top-of-the-line property management services in Asheville and western North Carolina. You will receive monthly reports on all aspects of your investment to show how your rental is performing. Our trusted vendor list of professionals, including maintenance, HVAC, plumbers, roofing, lawn care, electricians, and cleaners, ensure the home is maintained and beautiful for you and your guests. Visit our last blog about how to choose a realtor in Asheville, NC.

If you want to know more about how a trusted property manager can help improve your rental property’s ROI, contact our team today!

Asheville has been growing rapidly for decades, but we have experienced explosive, exponential growth in the last two or three years. That’s pretty much par for the course in North Carolina, as essentially every part of the state has welcomed new residents, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The real estate market in Asheville is exceptionally competitive at the moment. Whether you are moving within the area or from out-of-state (or beyond), it can be incredibly challenging to find what you’re looking for in time to make a purchase. If you’re selling in the area, you want to ensure you get the equity in the property you deserve.

The key to successfully purchasing and selling property in Asheville is to choose the right REALTOR®. In this article, we’re providing the best tips to help you find the right REALTOR®.

Five Tips to Help You Find the Right REALTOR®

1) Make Sure You’re Prepared to Find a REALTOR®

One of the first steps to take toward finding the right REALTOR® is knowing you’re ready to find one. First, you must ensure you are prepared to begin buying or selling a home.

Being Prepared to Buy a Home

The first big step toward hiring an agent to buy a home is to prequalify for a loan. You’ll want to have a prequalification letter before you hire an agent so that when you start the process, they can show you homes immediately.

Being Prepared to Sell a Home

Ensure you’ve looked at the market and determined you want to sell. Have as much information as possible:

• Homeowners Insurance information
• Age of the roof, HVAC, and other systems
• As many details as you can find regarding the square footage, renovations, etc.
• Receipts for all repairs and renovations
• Potentially a home inspection and appraisal

2) Find a REALTOR® Who Knows the Area

Ask prospective agents how long they have been in the business and if they work in real estate full or part-time while conducting interviews. You can ask how many houses they have helped buy or sell in the area.

There are, of course, similarities in every market. However, western North Carolina is unique. On the map, a property you see online may appear close to your office or town, but actually an hour’s drive up, down, or around the mountain.

Weather can be pretty different across the area as well. It might be snowing in Madison County, but sunny and mild in Hendersonville. If you love skiing, you might want to be closer to Wolf Laurel. If you want to grow apples, you might want to be in Henderson County. An agent experienced in the Asheville area will be able to assess your needs and wants and help you find the right part of western North Carolina.

3) Look for Someone with Experience Buying or Selling Property

If you’re buying a house, you want to find an agent who has extensive experience with finding homes for buyers. Depending on where you are in the process, you may want someone who specializes in first- or second-time home purchases. You want to find an agent who keeps their ear to the ground about properties that may be listed soon so that you can be first through the door.

For sellers, you want an agent representing you, marketing your property, and ultimately getting the best price.

4) Ask Friends, Family, and Locals for Recommendations

Using your current network as a starting point for your search is an excellent idea. Unbiased referrals for real estate agents from family, friends, and coworkers who recently purchased or sold a house may be key to finding the right agent.

If you’re not yet in western North Carolina, your network may not be familiar with the area. You can, however, get a sense of what others have found that they appreciate or avoid in REALTORs. Then, you can ask any local connections you have for referrals and peruse social media for ideas.

5) Find a REALTOR® with Proven Results

More than anything, you want a REALTOR® who has proven results. You want to find someone who has successfully bought or sold properties. Some of the characteristics of the best real estate agent near me include the following:

• The right REALTOR® will have a great network
• The right REALTOR® will be a people person
• The right REALTOR® will have an excellent record
• The right REALTOR® will work with a solid team
• The right REALTOR® will be experienced with what you need

Century 21 Connected

Century 21 Connected is a locally owned firm that provides reliable information on western North Carolina residential and commercial real estate. Our agents love Asheville and the surrounding areas, creating a genuine desire to help you find your perfect home or investment for your portfolio.

If you’re ready to work with the right REALTORs in the Asheville area, contact Century 21 Connected today!