Buyer & Seller Tips · September 2026
Straightforward Advice for Buying, Selling, and Everything In Between
No jargon, no filler — just the things I tell every client, whether this is their first home or their fifth.
If You're Buying
Get pre-approved before you tour anything
Not pre-qualified — pre-approved. In a competitive market, a real pre-approval letter is often the difference between getting a showing scheduled quickly and losing a home to someone who was ready to move.
Separate your must-haves from your nice-to-haves
Write both lists down before you start looking. It keeps you from talking yourself out of a genuinely good house over something you could live without — or into one that's missing something you can't.
Don't skip the inspection to "win" a competitive offer
There are smarter ways to make an offer competitive than waiving every protection you have. I'd rather help you structure a strong offer than have you find out about a foundation issue after closing.
Budget for more than the down payment
Closing costs, movers, immediate repairs, new furniture for a different layout — it adds up. Go in with a real number in mind, not just what you need to get to the closing table.
Work with someone who'll tell you the truth about a house
A good agent points out the foundation crack, the busy street, the dated kitchen that's going to cost real money — not just the things that make the listing sound good.
If You're Selling
Price it right from day one
The first two weeks on the market get the most attention a listing will ever see. Overprice it and you miss that window — then you're chasing the market down instead of leading it.
Professional photos aren't optional anymore
Most buyers decide whether to even request a showing based on photos alone. Good light, a clean composition, and a wide-angle lens make a real difference in how many people walk through your door.
Declutter before you stage
Staging can't fix a room that's too full. Clear countertops, closets that aren't packed to the ceiling, and personal photos put away go a long way before any furniture gets rearranged.
Be as flexible as you can with showings
The buyer who could only come at an inconvenient time is sometimes the one who makes the offer. Every showing you turn down is one less chance at the right buyer walking through.
Understand your actual net, not just the sale price
Commission, closing costs, any repair credits, your remaining mortgage balance — the number that matters is what you walk away with. I'll always show you that number up front, not just the headline price.
Whatever stage you're at — just starting to think about it, or ready to make a move — I'm happy to talk through your specific situation.
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