GFG

REAL ESTATE

GET THE EDGE: INSIDER TIPS FOR REAL ESTATE SUCCESS

Are you looking to buy, sell, or invest? 

 

We understand that the real estate process can feel overwhelming or confusing, and knowing where to start can be challenging. That's why we're here—to streamline the process and provide clarity, ensuring you feel confident every step of the way.

 

Below you will find some of our favorite tips & tools to get you started!

READY TO BUY?

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or exploring a new market, here are some tools to get you started on the right path.

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THE BUYER BLUEPRINT

10 REASONS WHY PRE-APPROVAL SHOULD TOP YOUR PRIORITY LIST AS A HOMEBUYER: 

 

  • Shows the seller you are a credible and qualified buyer
  • Sets a realistic budget and helps you feel confident about maximizing your buying power
  • Saves time by focusing on properties within your budget
  • Strengthens negotiations and gives you a competitive edge in multiple offer situations
  • Simplifies the process allowing you to move quickly when you find the right home
  • Assures the sellers that a certified mortgage lender has already reviewed and approved your financials
  • Helps you develop a clear timeline for purchase
  • Reduces stress by eliminating uncertainty about financing so you can focus on finding the perfect home
  • Zero obligation or upfront costs to proceed providing flexibility and peace of mind  
  • Confidential setting to get all your questions answered at your own pace 

STEPS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN SHOPPING FOR YOUR DREAM PROPERTY:

 

DEFINE YOUR NEEDS VS. WANTS

  • Narrow your property search by creating a list of "must-haves" and "nice-to-haves." This will help you find the perfect place that ticks all the boxes!
  • Due to current supply and demand, it is essential to note that market trends in Missoula and surrounding areas may necessitate accommodations in your list.

 

RESEARCH NEIGHBORHOODS

  • Explore different areas to discover the location that fits your unique lifestyle and needs. The right neighborhood can make all the difference!

 

ATTEND OPEN HOUSES AND SHOWINGS

  • Visit potential properties to get a feel for the space and visualize yourself living there. 

 

CONSIDER LONG-TERM GROWTH 

  • Think about the property potential and neighborhood for future value.

KEY STEPS ONCE YOU ARE READY TO MAKE AN OFFER:

 

DETERMINE YOUR OFFER PRICE:

  • We are here to help you with an appropriate offer based on market value, recent comparable sales, and property condition.

 

WE WRITE YOUR OFFER LETTER TO INCLUDE SOME OF THE FOLLOWING:

  • Purchase price
  • Contingencies (financing, home inspection, and appraisal)
  • Earnest money deposit (this amount is usually held in escrow and applied to your down payment or closing costs)
  • Propose a closing date 

 

SUBMIT YOUR OFFER

 

NEGOTIATE TERMS:

  • Be prepared for a counteroffer. We are here to negotiate so that you can reach final terms acceptable to both parties. We want the best possible outcome for YOU.

 

REVIEW AND SIGN THE CONTRACT

ENSURE A SMOOTH TRANSACTION: HOME INSPECTIONS, APPRAISAL, AND WRAPPING UP LOOSE ENDS

 

HOME INSPECTIONS: 

Inspections can be scary and confusing, but a third-party professional inspector will ensure everything is safe and working well. We'll negotiate with the sellers to have any issues fixed so you can rest easy knowing your new home is move-in ready.

  • Purpose: Inspections identify potential property issues, like structural problems and plumbing concerns.
  • Timing: Usually, it is after the seller accepts your offer before finalizing the purchase.
  • Result: The Inspector provides a detailed report. We can utilize this report for negotiations with the seller.

 

APPRAISALS:

Appraisals are completed by a professional third party and are required for financing. Suppose the appraisal comes in lower than our offer price, and we have an appraisal contingency. We can negotiate a new sales price with the sellers—a win for you!

  • Purpose: Ensures the home's value aligns with your offered price, this is especially important when you are obtaining a mortgage through a lender.
  • Timing: Once the mortgage lender orders, the appraisal generally takes place within 1 to 3 weeks. 
  • Result: The appraisal report goes to the lender. We can either renegotiate the price or pay the difference if the value is lower.

 

WRAP UP LOOSE ENDS:

  • The final steps in purchasing a home involve wrapping up all remaining tasks to ensure a smooth closing.

 

TITLE SEARCH & INSURANCE: 

  • Ensure the property is free of liens and secure title insurance to protect against future claims.

 

FINAL WALKTHROUGH:

  • We will walk the home one last time to ensure it is in the agreed-upon condition.

 

CLOSING COSTS: 

  • Be prepared to pay closing costs, which can include fees for the inspection, appraisal, title search, and other administrative expenses.

WELCOME HOME!

It's time to finalize all the paperwork, grab your new keys, and officially become the proud owner of your new place!

Huge congratulations on this fantastic milestone! But wait—our support continues beyond there. We’re here for you every step of the way, even after the deal closes, to answer any questions you may have about property ownership. From knowing where to find your water shut-off valve to connecting you with a local contractor. We can even suggest amazing ideas to boost your property's value!

At GFG, we're just a phone call away, always here to lend a helping hand. 

EXPLORE OUR FREE ESTIMATORS AND TOOLS

HOW-TO VIDEO FOR THE FIRST TIME HOMEBUYER: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

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READY TO SELL?

If you're ready to sell your home or property, we have the tools to give you a head start and make the process smooth and successful.

 

Let's get you moving in the right direction!

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THE SELLING STRATEGY

OUR STRATEGY STARTS WITH PRESENTING YOUR PROPERTY IN THE BEST POSSIBLE LIGHT TO REACH THE RIGHT AUDIENCE:

Our 'Initial Price Assessment' is a comprehensive report on your home's value, providing a range at which we predict it will sell. This assessment compares homes in your area that have sold or are currently on the market. It's a crucial step that sets the foundation for a successful selling strategy.

 

LET'S MEET TO UNDERSTAND YOUR GOALS:

  • We meet with you to discuss goals, timelines, and specific concerns or expectations. Then, examine the property's strengths and areas for improvement.

 

MARKET ANALYSIS:

  • Provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) to set realistic expectations for pricing. We obtain this based on current market trends and comparable properties in the area.

THREE KEY STEPS IN GETTING READY TO LIST YOUR HOME: 

 

RESEARCH &  PREPARATION: 

  • Once we have a signed listing agreement, it's time to take a deep dive into your home.  We recommend things buyers will likely ask you to fix and do our research on the title, easements, amenities, septic permits, well logs (if applicable), and more.
  • We gather all the information potential buyers will ask for when considering an offer to avoid surprises once we are on the market. The best surprises are no surprises.

 

PROPERTY ASSESSMENT: 

  • We thoroughly inspect the home to identify potential issues or areas for enhancement. Recommend repairs or updates that could increase the home's value or appeal.

 

PRICING STRATEGY: 

  • We aim to create a competitive pricing strategy that aligns with market conditions. Consider factors such as neighborhood trends, seasonality, and buyer demand.

HOW TO CREATE A MARKETING PACKAGE THAT WILL CAPTIVATE POTENTIAL BUYERS AND MAKE THEM EAGER TO SEE YOUR HOME IN PERSON: 

 

PICTURES & VIDEOS: 

  • We utilize professional photography and videography to highlight your property’s finest features. These visuals highlight the key features, unique selling points, and the overall ambiance of your home, attracting potential buyers.

 

HOME STAGING & CURB APPEAL: 

  • We recommend tricks we've learned over the years to help your home put its best possible foot forward with staging the house.
  • Consider professionally staging the home to appeal to the target market. Focus on decluttering, neutralizing the decor, and enhancing key spaces like the living room, kitchen, and primary bedroom.
  • Remember the exterior! Ensure the lawn is well-manicured, the entrance is welcoming, and any outdoor spaces are inviting and well-maintained.

ONCE YOUR HOME IS LISTED, WE FOCUS OUR ENERGY ON MARKETING WITH THIS COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY:

 

ONLINE LISTINGS: 

  • We create a compelling online listing to over 100 major real estate platforms with optimized descriptions, high-quality images, and engaging videos.

 

SOCIAL MEDIA PROMOTION: 

  • We leverage social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) to reach a broader audience. Using targeted ads to focus on specific demographics or geographic areas.

 

EMAIL CAMPAIGNS: 

  • To generate interest, we send email blasts to our network of potential buyers, past clients, and real estate agents.

 

OPEN HOUSES & VIRTUAL EVENTS:

  • To attract interested buyers, we host open houses, both in-person and virtual. You could even consider themed events to create buzz and draw attention depending on the property.

OUR COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY PREPARES YOUR PROPERTY FOR A SUCCESSFUL SALE WHILE ENSURING YOU FEEL SUPPORTED & INFORMED THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS:

 

ONGOING COMMUNICATION:

  • Regular Updates: We keep you informed throughout the process with regular updates on showings, feedback from potential buyers, and any shifts in the market.
  • Adjustments: Be prepared to adjust the strategy based on feedback, market conditions, or changes in your situation.

 

NEGOTIATION & CLOSING: 

  • Skilled Negotiation: When offers come in, we negotiate on your behalf to achieve the best possible price and terms.
  • Closing Process: We will guide you through the closing process, ensuring all paperwork is in order, and any final details are handled smoothly.

 

POST SALE FOLLOW-UP & CLIENT SUPPORT:

  • We provide you post-sale support, including answering any questions you may have and offer assistance with your next steps, whether buying a new property or relocating.

READY TO FIND AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY?

Are you looking to unlock your perfect investment opportunity? Let us guide you on this journey as your trusted real estate professionals in Missoula!

 

GFG Real Estate offers invaluable expertise and support for investors, covering everything from cash flow analysis to customized lender programs.

 

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STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

That is what we're here for, let's work together!

CONTACT US TODAY
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