There is something very special and comforting about finding your dream home for the holidays, and being in that home. This often means time to relax, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy all the things which make it your home, rather than just a house. By being able to take the time you traditionally would not have during a busy work schedule, and talking walks, reading by the fire, or creating delicious meals with your family and friends in your home, it’s a time when we are able to be able to enjoy the reasons you bought this dream property to call it your home. If you’ve been itching for a change, as many have during this pandemic that has made us rethink our lifestyles, now is a great time to connect with your Ulster County REALTOR® and start searching for your dream home for the holidays and the year ahead.
While it’s easy to get caught up in scrolling through the internet and finding what you think is your dream home for holidays, without an expert, you might be getting yourself into more trouble than you bargained for. That beautiful country farm house at a killer price? It’s probably too good to be true. A REALTOR® is there to not only be the real estate expert to help navigate the buying process, but also will have a wealth of both local and property knowledge to help you make informed decisions when searching for your dream home. Here’s the REALTOR® difference, and what they can do for you to make your search as seamless and easy as possible this holiday season:
REALTORS® versus Agents: REALTORS® who are members of the UCBR, are also members of the NAR Not only can you ensure you will be treated fairly, but also your REALTOR® will have knowledge and tools that agents may not have as members of both the NAR & UCBR.
Ethical treatment. Every REALTOR® must adhere to a strict code of ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. As a REALTOR® ‘s client, you can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters. The first obligation is to you, the client.
An expert guide. Buying a home usually requires dozens of forms, reports, disclosures, and other technical documents. A knowledgeable expert will help you prepare the best deal, and avoid delays or costly mistakes. Also, there’s a lot of jargon involved, so you want to work with a professional who can speak the language.
Objective information and opinions. REALTORS® can provide local information on utilities, zoning, schools, and more. They also have objective information about each property. REALTORS® can use that data to help you determine if the property has what you need. By understanding both your needs and search area, they can also point out neighborhoods you don’t know much about but that might suit your needs better than you’d thought and get you in that dream home for the holidays – and years to come.
Expanded search power. Sometimes properties are available but not actively advertised. A REALTOR® can help you find opportunities not listed on home search sites and can help you avoid out-of-date listings that might be showing up as available online but are no longer on the market.
Negotiation knowledge. There are many factors up for discussion in a deal. A REALTOR® will look at every angle from your perspective, including crafting a purchase agreement that allows enough time for you to complete inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase.
Up-to-date experience. Most people buy only a few homes in their lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. Even if you’ve done it before, laws and regulations change. REALTORS® handle hundreds of transactions over the course of their career. They’ll also have updated information regarding any changes to the Real Estate Market in response to COVID-19.
Your rock during emotional moments. A home is so much more than four walls and a roof. And for most people, property represents the biggest purchase they’ll ever make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on the issues most important to you and makes finding your dream home for the holidays, and forever, that much easier.
Buying a home that you can be happy about can be a long process, often with many ups and downs along the way. Starting the journey to find your home this holiday season should be one that you can feel confident about, knowing you are working with an expert in the industry, who is committed to finding you that perfect place to enjoy the holidays, and entertain family and friends. Ready to speak with your local Ulster County REALTOR®? Visit the Ulster County Board of REALTORS® to find out more.
