Approximately 85% of all homes sold are sold through real estate professionals.  15% are sold by owner or through discount brokers.  Discount brokers will list your home on the multiple listing service but the similarities end there.  A few out of area agents are handling a number of listings throughout the state and are not familiar with your neighborhood.  As a Whidbey Island Windermere Agent, I live and breathe real estate in your neigborhood, your community and on your street.  The person that you are trying to attract, the Buyers Agents,  tend to steer away from For Sale By Owner listings, not because the commission is less but because they are protecting their buyers.  Buyers' Agents inadvertantly get caught up in dual agency situations by trying to help both parties through the transaction leading to both ethical and Real Estate Law concerns.  The real estate process will go smoother for  buyers and their agent if they are working with a professional Realtor.  

Will you stage my property?

Staging has become a overused word that can mean a variety of things, anything from sticking a potted plant in a corner to fully furnishing the entire home.  Staged homes simply get more offers and sell faster than homes that are not staged.  

This is how I stage a home.  If the home is furnished, I will help you determine what stays and what needs to be packed away.  If a home is vacant I furnish it enough so it is inviting.  This may mean a small sofa, tables, chairs, pictures, etc.   

I can help you with the "Designed to Sell" concept.   My design and construction background helps me understand what changes make the most impact for the least amount of money and achieve the maximum return.  I keep up with all the latest trends along with "cheap chic" products that have big market impact.  

What specific things will you do to Market my property?

• The Comparative Market Analysis is the first step in marketing your property.  I provide you with solid information regarding the price range that current buyers are willing to spend for your property.   Overpricing can lead to property that simply sits on the market and is ignored.  Most often a property that has been overpriced ends up selling for less than the original suggested selling price. 

• A professional photographer is hired at my expense to take high-quality photos of your property.

• A four color flyer is designed for your sign box 

• A website is designed featuring your home with pictures and explanations about the pictures

• The listing is sent to the multiple listing service.

• The Windermere sign is promptly placed on your property

• A customized in-home book is placed in your home

•  A high gloss four color brochure is designed and sent to the printers.

• Ads are created and, depending on the property, sent to publications such as Homes Land Islander, Windermere Premier Properties, The Whidbey newspapers, the Seattle Times, etc. 

• All Windermere agents tour your property on the Tuesday following the date your property is listed.

• Brokers Open for all island agents takes place on Wednesdays.  I lure the agents in to see your property with gourmet food or treats.  Always works!