Ready to make a move in the Golden Isles? The team of Luxury Collection Specialists at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodnett Cooper Real Estate has a few tips for you to consider this new year when buying real estate in the Golden Isles. This team of agents saw a successful 2021 for their clients – representing over 465 transaction sides (through November of 2021) totaling over $216 million in total sales volume. They specialize in representing luxury and unique properties including private homes, waterfront estates, equestrian properties, and residences with historical significance or unique architectural details.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodnett Cooper Luxury Collection Specialists (1 of 2)
From left, standing: Crystal Akers, Dawn Miller, Patsy Bryan, George Skarpalezos, Cindy Jacobs, Erin Vaughn, Stephanie Webb; seated: Joe Wills. Tammy Green, Winnie Skarpalezos.
Be Aware of the Current Market.
“If your 2022 includes a real estate transaction, it’s important to consider what has been going on with local demand and inventory in our market,” shares Joe Wills. “With less than two months of inventory on the market, will prices continue to rise due to increasing demand? Will rising prices bring more properties to the market? Will rising prices curb demand? The simple answer to all of these questions is ‘Yes.’But the real question here is ‘When?’
Buying? Get Competitive.
While we don’t know the answer to the ‘When’ asked above, we do know where we’ve been for our clients in the last year. “Three words: Multiple Offer Situations,” says Pat Cooper, Owner and Broker. “If you’re thinking of purchasing a home in 2022, working with an agent to get ready and being competitive is key. An agent guides you through the purchase process so that you can submit a competitive offer and increase your chances of success and acceptance.”
“And,” adds Missy Neu, COO, “if you’re not paying cash for the home, we recommend that our clients get pre-approved with a lender. In addition, an experienced and skilled agent can assist with developing a strategy to be competitive with cash offers.”
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodnett Cooper Luxury Collection Specialists (2 of 2)
From left, standing: Felder Garner, Ann Dempsey, Len Hoshall, MelindaLaager, Missy Neu, Luke Pigge, Kelly Ross; seated: Evelyn Murphy, Adair Field, Pat Cooper.
Selling? Get Ready In Advance.
Taking care of the little things can go a long way. “De-cluttering, painting, staging, organizing everything. Buyers need to be able to picture themselves in the home. A neutral color palette can make a huge difference,” shares Realtor Evelyn Murphy. “But the biggest trend we are seeing right now? And something that a lot of our agents are recommending to their clients? Getting an inspection in advance of putting your house on the market.”
Having a home inspection prior to listing your home offers a number of advantages. As a seller, you’ll be able to get ahead of any repairs and potentially make your home more attractive to buyers. Evelyn continues, “While a buyer will most likely do their own home inspection during due diligence, being able to show them that any previously discovered issues have been addressed, and that there are no major surprises to expect, makes an impact as well and could even expedite closing.”
Working with a qualified agent will help you navigate and understand what is happening in the local market. They’re a great resource for finding connections to local lenders, inspectors, and contractors, and they can bring a lot of peace of mind during a major transaction, whether you are buying or selling. For more information about luxury real estate in the Golden Isles or to connect with this team of agents, please call 912.638.5450, visit coastalgeorgialuxury.com, or connect on Instagram at @bhhshodnettcooperluxury.
