If you’re thinking about buying a house after downsizing in Kansas City and you hope to downsize with the help of an agent, make sure you get the service you need and deserve. Read this blog post for information about 3 important things to demand from your agent when downsizing in Kansas City…
If you’re planning on buying a house after downsizing in Kansas City, you might want to think about getting help from an agent, especially if you haven’t purchased a home recently in today’s fast paced market. An agent provides many different benefits and services and they should be focused on serving you and advocating for you. A Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) is a professional with specific training and experience working with seniors and their families in all aspects of real estate transitions related to downsizing. That may include the search for a home with a single level living floor plan such as a ranch, a reverse 1.5 story, a cottage, or working with a family to combine households with a good set up of living arrangements across generations.
So, buying a house?
Demand these 3 things from your agent when downsizing in Kansas City. (And if you don’t get them, find another agent who can help you).
#1. Ask for their track record helping homeowners downsize or families combining households
Choosing a new place to call home when downsizing is different! Factors you didn’t need to consider before now may be important. Find out if your agent is experienced representing buyers in downsizing moves or combining households. See if they can provide you with testimonials and success stories, or some other kind of indicator of how well they represent you. Your agent should be a great communicator, patient, and professional. You should feel comfortable with your agent and their style -as they will be guiding you along an important part of your next chapter! Remember, they should be able to find you house options that fit your new criteria to look at and then negotiate well on your behalf.
#2. Ask to look at various house options that may fit your needs
An agent wants to help you get into a house as soon as they can. Although they want you to be happy, of course, they also want to streamline the process so that your home search is organized. Ensure that your agent is including different housing options for you to consider, not just their preferred area or style. Be sure that your agent is answering your questions throughout the process so that you feel comfortable with your decision. You should feel heard by your agent and that your new home interests are considered.
#3. Ask to drive around the neighborhood
Agents can often be focused on houses and they forget all the other reasons you want to buy a house. For example, you might want to know how close the grocery store, library, or park may be from the home you are considering; so, ask your agent to show you a house and then drive around the neighborhood to view what the neighborhood is like if you aren’t familiar with the area. Both pieces of information are essential for you to make an informed decision. Have a conversation at the beginning of your search on elements that are most important to you, especially geographical proximity to places you visit frequently such as your health club, pharmacy, library, arts center, golf course or favorite coffee shop! After all this is life & you should enjoy it! Buying a new home and downsizing in Kansas City, Lawrence, or Topeka brings many options to explore!
Summary
Agents are not all the same. Some will do more for you and some will do less. But if you want an agent to provide professional service – be sure to feel comfortable with the agent representing you. Buying a house? Demand these 3 things from your agent in Kansas City… and you’ll love finding the perfect house for downsizing & your next chapter.
