Are you torn between whether to buy a home now or wait? Consider this. Forecasts show prices will climb for at least the next 5 years. If you wait, the price of a home will be higher later on. But, if you buy a $400K now, you could gain roughly $83K in equity as prices rise. If you’re able to buy now, this equity is one reason why it’ll be worth it in the long run. Let’s connect if you’re ready to talk through ways we can make it happen.
The Secret To Selling? Using an Agent To Get Your House Noticed
In a recent survey, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) asked sellers what they want most from a real estate agent. The number one answer was to help market their house.
It makes sense. The way your agent markets your house can be the difference between whether or not it stands out and gets attention from buyers. That’s why it’s so important to work with an expert local agent that knows what they’re doing.
According to that same report from NAR, here are some of the most common methods real estate agents use to market homes, and how you benefit when your agent uses them effectively (see graph below):
- Listing on the MLS – Real estate agents have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) database. And that’s great for you because having your house on the MLS helps it get more visibility from other agents and buyers. And the more people who see it, the more likely it is to sell.
- Using a Yard Sign – A yard sign may seem simple, but it’s one of the best ways to catch the attention of people driving or walking by. And when it does, they’ll help spread the word to friends and family who are looking to buy that there’s a house for sale in the area. It also puts your agent’s contact information on display, making it easy for interested buyers to get in touch.
- Having an Open House – An open house is a great way to create a sense of competition and urgency among buyers – and that can lead to stronger offers. And since you’ll only need to leave once for many buyers to visit, it makes the process easier for you, too. Plus, an open house helps your agent get real-time feedback about what buyers love and what they’re not as sold on.
- Showcasing on Your Agent’s Website – Having your house on your agent’s website presents it in a professional way to buyers. And odds are, people visiting your agent’s website are serious and ready to make a move, so this is a smart way to get in front of motivated buyers.
- Social Networking – Posting your house on social helps get your house in front of buyers who may not have seen it with traditional marketing. It also makes it easy for people to share your listing with friends and loved ones.
- Providing Virtual Tours – For buyers who are relocating from out of town, virtual tours allow them to check out your house anytime from wherever they are. This helps reach more potential buyers who may not be able to come to see your house in person.
- Using Video – Video is an excellent way for your agent to show off some of the top features of your house like your kitchen, large closets, outdoor entertainment areas, and other key details that could attract buyers.
- Sending Emails – Sending out information about your house to your agent’s expansive database is another way they’ll get it in front of even more people. Great agents may even send emails teasing that your house is coming to the market as a way to boost interest and excitement before it officially has an open house.
Here’s what it comes down to. Most good agents will write a description of your house for the listing and pair it with high-quality photos. But a great agent will do so much more than that.
They’ll not only lean on their expertise, they’ll put in the time and effort to make sure your house makes an impression on buyers, and ultimately, sells.
Bottom Line
As a seller, working with a creative local real estate agent is a smart way to ensure your house grabs the attention of the right buyers. If you’re ready to sell and want to talk about strategies we can use to get your house sold, let’s chat.
Two Resources That Can Help You Buy a Home Right Now
A recent report from Realtor.com says 20% of Americans don’t think homeownership is achievable. Maybe you feel the same way. With inflation driving up day-to-day expenses, saving enough to buy your first home is more of a challenge. But here’s the thing. With the right resources and help, you can still make it happen.
There are options that can help make buying a home possible today — even if your savings are limited or your credit isn’t perfect. Let’s explore two solutions that could help get you into your first home, regardless of the market.
1. FHA Loans
If your down payment savings and credit score aren’t where you want them to be, an FHA loan could be your pathway to buying a home. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Bankrate, the big perks of an FHA home loan are:
- Lower Down Payments: They typically require a smaller down payment than conventional loans, sometimes as low as 3.5% of the home’s purchase price.
- Lower Credit Score Requirements: They’re designed to help buyers with credit scores that might not qualify for conventional financing. This means that when conventional loans aren’t an option, you may still be able to get an FHA loan.
The first step is to connect with a lender who can help you explore your options and determine if you qualify.
2. Homeownership Assistance Programs
And if you need a more budget-friendly down payment, that’s not your only option. Did you know there are over 2,000 homeownership assistance programs available across the U.S. according to Down Payment Resource? And more than 75% of these programs are designed to help buyers with their down payment. Here’s a bit more information about why these could be such powerful tools for you:
- Financial Support: The average benefit for buyers who qualify for down payment assistance is $17,000. And that’s not a small number.
- Stackable Benefits: To make it even better, in some cases, you may be able to qualify for multiple programs at once, giving your down payment an even bigger boost.
Rob Chrane, CEO of Down Payment Resource confirms a little-known fact:
“Some of these programs can be layered. And so, in other words, you may not be limited to just one program.”
If you want to learn more or see what you qualify for, be sure to lean on the pros. A trusted real estate agent and a lender can guide you through the process, explain the help that’s out there, and connect you with resources to make buying a home a reality.
Bottom Line
If you’re ready to stop wondering if buying a home is possible and start exploring solutions, let’s connect.
Sold 14% Above List Price with 8 Offers! Inviting 3 Bedroom, 2.25 Bath + Loft Townhome at Crystal Creek Community in Bothell
Listed at $690,000
Click Here For Full Details
Ideally located end unit townhome in the quiet community of Crystal Creek Townhomes in Bothell. The spacious floorplan boasts 1,916 s.f. and features 3 bedrooms, 2.25 baths, loft bonus/family room and 2 car garage. Special features include: updated laminate flooring, newer roof, forced air heat and A/C via gas furnace and heat pump.
Open entry with laminate hardwood flooring and coat closet. Living room features big windows providing ample natural light and gas fireplace with tile surround and beautiful mantel. Open dining room with slider door to new, high quality deck. Spacious, open kitchen with granite counters and backsplash, ample cabinets, breakfast bar and pantry closet. Powder room on main floor is great for guests.
Large, inviting master bedroom with double doors and large window. Master bath with two separate vanities, large shower and huge walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms are spacious. Well maintained full bathroom adjacent to the bedrooms with dual vanity sinks and granite countertops. Spacious laundry room with shelving – full size washer and dryer included. Large open loft space – could be a great entertainment area, sitting area or play space.
Attached 2 car garage with room for storage. Additional parking in the driveway, guest parking out front and additional assigned parking space to the left of the back deck. New, high quality deck. Great for BBQing or entertaining!
HOA dues of $138 per month includes: All common area maintenance.
Outstanding Northshore schools.
August 2019 – Eastside, King & Snohomish County Real Estate Market Update – Housing Trends and Current Pricing
Watch the latest episode of our Eastside, King & Snohomish County Real Estate Market Update for a recap on our local housing market. We will dive into current inventory levels and housing prices for homes in the Eastside, King & Snohomish County Washington.
Would you like to know more about our local real estate market? Contact us here. We are happy to help!
“I’m glad to have worked with him and all the support and help he gave during the sale.”
Tony Meier and his team did a great job in representing me especially considering I had moved to the other side of the nation. I’m glad to have worked with him and all the support and help he gave during the sale. It made it easy and painless.
Michelle Fitzgerald
Sold in Bothell April 2019
April 2019 – Eastside, King & Snohomish County Real Estate Market Update – Housing Trends and Current Pricing
Watch the latest episode of our Eastside, King & Snohomish County Real Estate Market Update for a recap on our local housing market. We will dive into current inventory levels and housing prices for homes in the Eastside, King & Snohomish County Washington.
Would you like to know more about our local real estate market? Contact us here. We are happy to help!
March 2019 – Eastside, King & Snohomish County Real Estate Market Update – Housing Trends and Current Pricing
Watch the latest episode of our Eastside, King & Snohomish County Real Estate Market Update for a recap on our local housing market. We will dive into current inventory levels and housing prices for homes in the Eastside, King & Snohomish County Washington.
Would you like to know more about our local real estate market? Contact us here. We are happy to help!
First-time Buyers Find Success in their Home Search
Our experience has been great, and we did not feel like there were any shortcomings in the service. It was a really great home buying experience for us. This being our first home purchase, we were very nervous about the whole process as such, but it was very comforting to know that Tony was available for a chat immediately. Tony’s knowledge and insights were not just limited to the transaction, but he also shared his knowledge of the things we had to look out for in terms of maintenance and making the home space more usable.
Sudhanshu and Tanvi Sohoni
Purchased in Bothell – March 2018
Retirement prompts sale of Bothell two story home. Multiple offers received and a happy outcome achieved!
Deciding to sell a home can be stressful and then finding the right agent to guide you through the process can be equally as stressful. Tony came recommended to us by close friends who had just sold their property through Tony. The first time Tony came to our home he was completely prepared with a comprehensive portfolio of homes and properties both listed and sold in our area. He gave us a full rundown of how to maximize our home to sell both quickly and for the best price. He put together a beautiful video presentation of our home which made the home look warm and inviting. Throughout the entire process Tony was extremely professional; he kept us constantly updated on the status of the sale and yet very respectful of our privacy at the same time. Tony held an open house the first weekend on the market and by the following Tuesday we had multiple offers well over the asking price. We put our trust in Tony and never regretted the decision. I would use Tony’s services again in a heartbeat and will recommend him to friends and family.
Thank You Tony,
Steven and Helene Camara
Eight Offers and Sold for 8.7% Above the List Price. Out of area owner pleased with the process and the results!
June 26th, 2016
Working with Tony was a pleasure from the start. We were referred to Tony and his team by a good friend who had a very positive experience in selling their house in Bothell area. Since we had moved out of Bothell, a few years ago, my property was under rent and managed by my Property Manager. Tony presented his case very well and in spite of existing relationship with my Property Manager – who was also interested in bringing our house to Market, I decided to go along with Tony and I am very happy that I made that decision. Tony was very professional in managing transition of my property from the Property Manager and suggested improvements on the property that were for the better. I appreciate the attention to detail that Tony, put into marketing the house, with the use of quality drone photography and of personal walk through video of the house for potential buyers. Being out of state, with a constant travelling job – Tony was very good at working with my crazy schedule. Tony has good sense and awareness of the EastSide market was very informative about the market conditions. Post the selection of buyer, Tony kept me informed and updated and was there to answer any queries that I had. Overall it was a very enjoyable experience and we were able to sell our house, with little to no glitches. I will whole-heartedly recommend Tony to any of my friends.
Dhaval Panchal and Lincy George –
Sold for $40k Above the List Price in The Promontory in Bothell. When a discount broker failed – they called Tony Meier to get the job done!
We have used several agents over the past few years for Real Estate transactions and were always left in the end with questions left unanswered and a lot to be desired in terms of the “value add” these agents were able to provide. We had our house listed for a couple of months and it did not sell even in an extremely seller friendly Seattle market. That’s when we interviewed Tony.
We were extremely impressed by the amount of “home work” he showed he had done prior to meeting with us for the first time. We were very pleasantly surprised that he took so much time to gather all the data and presented us a through analysis of the market, the area, and our property. We decided to put our complete faith in him, and he went above and beyond our expectations in every way, all the way through! He did a great job explaining the strategy, helped us with identifying some minor things we could do to make our property more marketable. He went out of his way to get us some trustworthy contractors to do the repair work, which he was also able to supervise, with us being out of state already.
Thanks to a very smart sale strategy from him, we got multiple offers on our property within four days. He continued to work with us to review offers, weigh the pros and cons of each offer, and helping us make the right decision to choose an offer. We had originally thought that we would have to sell the property at a considerable loss, after we failed to sell it using the previous agent. However, Tony planning and strategy helped us sell it for $40k above the asking price!
Tony is hands down the best agent we have ever come across and we feel very fortunate that we found him to sell our property. We can’t think of a single thing that Tony did not do or could have done a better job of with respect to our transaction. Without any hesitation, we recommend him to anyone who is looking for a trustworthy, honest, and experienced agent, who knows the market inside out and can definitely help you achieve your goal using the right strategy
Muhammad and Gulbano Ali – Sold in Bothell – 2016
Sold for 11% ABOVE list price – “Wowed” by the results!
The first word that come to mind when I think of our experience with Tony is integrity. My husband and I have tended not to trust real estate agents. But Tony is professional, ethical, honest and an expert negotiator. He seems to love that part of the job and it shows. In addition, he is very experienced, detail-oriented, calm and an excellent photographer.
My advice would be to hire Tony as soon as you have made the decision to sell your home at some point. Then ask for his advice, and take it!
Ann and Brian Steel – Sold in Bothell – 2015
Sold 4% above the list price! Job relocation prompts the sale of repeat clients’ home in Bothell
Suji & I were extremely satisfied with your level of service. We are repeat clients remember! And for good reason.
Right from the start you gave us a good feel for the market. You obviously know it well! This helped us develop the right strategy for the sale. Your idea of getting a pre-inspection done was the best – saving us a lot of effort (post sale). We are also very appreciative of your helping us get the right professionals to spruce up the home pre-sale. Ultimately your professionalism throughout the process, and your excellent negotiations skills made it a totally smooth & successful outcome for us. Thank you!
Veeru Perianan and Suji Lakshminarayanan – Sold in Bothell – 2015
Unique Bothell Fixer-upper. – Challenging Sale Closed!
Tony, I acquired your name through both friends and family members that were very pleased with the services you provided in the sales and purchases of their homes. Their high praise was well justified.
The ageing home you helped me sell was located on a very unique property, with several stumbling blocks. Your realistic advice proved to be accurate each time. Though I did not want to spend more money to complete a sale, your reasoning was sound and by paying a few of the County smaller fees, we were able to complete a sale.
I appreciated your being very specific in your recommendations on ways to navigate the challenges which arose and I always felt you acted in my best interest, keeping me well informed of the steps needing attention.
Your follow-up and attention to detail was outstanding from listing through closing with escrow and I truly appreciate having had the opportunity to work with you. Thank you again.
Shirley Gardner—Sold in Bothell—2014
Ready to upgrade from Townhouse to Single Family Home
We chose to go back to Tony when we were ready to sell our townhouse and purchase a house because of his superb performance in helping us find our townhouse. Tony goes above and beyond and obviously cares very much about his clients and in getting things done in a timely manner. He is friendly and professional and extremely knowledgeable in his field. We had many questions about both purchasing and selling and he was there to answer every question with patience and detail. We’d recommend his services to anyone looking to buy or sell a home!
Adam and Jennifer Lydick – Purchased in Lynnwood – 2013 and Sold in Bothell – 2014
Found a great home for her busy life. Townhome in Bothell.
In the last few months, Tony Meier has facilitated the sale of my home and purchase of a new property . Both transactions went smoothly and easily, primarily because of Tony’s proactive and professional response to all aspects of the sale and purchase. He provided me with the information I needed to make decisions that were in my best interest. During the time I worked with Tony, he was easily reachable and responsive to my phone calls and emails. He has even called after the completion of my purchase to make sure everything was going well. I highly recommend Tony for all your real estate needs!
Marsha Moore – Purchased in Bothell – 2013
Real Estate Agent Reference – Bothell
Tony did a great job suggesting the right improvements and great contractors to make our home show best for our market. He did an excellent job taking photos and building a photo showcase and video to market our home that really made it shine. He did a great job helping us come to terms with the current market so we could set an appropriate price. The combination of these helped us generate a tremendous market response which resulted in a quick sale of the house all during a very distressed market.
Real Estate Agent Testimonial – Bothell
Real Estate Broker Review – Bothell
Tony, you did a great job at communicating with us. Your responses were thorough and timely. You were very tactful at handling and calming these anxious first time home buyers! We greatly appreciate your services and will definitely recommend you to friends. Thank you again!!
Real Estate Agent Reference – Redmond/Bothell
I wanted to thank you for everything you did to support our family in this massive endeavor. I knew Wendy and I made the right choice in asking you to represent us after the first 5 minutes with you, back in May. Everything that has happened since then has done nothing but reinforce our decision. I appreciate your professionalism, knowledge, experience, honesty, and the simple fact that you always put our interests first. That gave Wendy and I a level of comfort that I didn’t think was possible in the selling/buying process. I truly could not have asked for anything more, and I thank you for this.
PS – We will absolutely recommend you at every opportunity!
Tim & Wendy Bechtel – Sold Bothell & Purchased in Redmond – 2011
Real Estate Broker Review – Bothell
Tony is incredibly knowledgeable about all aspects of the home-buying process. He provides a calm, steady presence throughout that process — from planning a home purchase, to picking the right place to live, to making and finalizing the offer on the perfect place. We were amazed at how efficient the whole process was from start to finish in working with Tony, as his proactive approach had us ready for each phase in perfect timing. He referred us to top-notch resources for mortgage and home inspection, which was the icing on the cake to ensure an overall positive and efficient experience. Tony will guide you with a steady hand, proven knowledge, and timely advice — all with a personal touch!
Real Estate Broker Review – Bothell
Thank you so much for making our dream of owning a home once again come true. You are amazing, through all 15 homes we looked at, you hung in their with us. We are so grateful to you for showing us the home we finally settle on and purchased. We absolutely will recommend you to all our friends that may be looking for an agent… Knowing they will be as impressed with your professionalism and knowledge of the listings and areas, as well as all the details that are necessary for first time buyer’s and those who have already own their own home.
You made the search easy for us with all your much needed advise, patience and knowledge of what your customer’s want. You knew the first day we spoke with you what our needs where and picked up on our preferences the first time we went out looking. We were particularly impressed with your abilities to negotiate and get the best deal on the home we wanted.
Your keeping us informed through every aspect of the sale was so reassuring to us, especially when their was a glitch that we weren’t expecting. You handled it amazingly and walked us through it (basically holding our hands) through it all. As we said before, you are an amazing real estate agent and anyone looking to purchase a home would be absolutely blessed to have you as their agent. Thank you Tony for all your guidance, concern, advise and nurturing during the entire process. We appreciate you so much!
Real Estate Broker Testimonial – Bothell
I have known Tony for about a year and he helped my wife and I buy a home in 2006. There were problems with the sale, Tony went above and beyond to not only manage my wife’s stress throughout the process, but also to have the sale close on time. I will use Tony again in the future and feel absolutely confident in his abilities to handle any referrals I would send him.
Real Estate Agent Reference – Bothell
We had a cross-country move and Tony made sure we knew what was happening every step of the way! The move was tough enough by itself, but it would have been even harder without Tony’s help. Thanks for the wonderful support Tony!
Howard Hampton and Karen Staehling-Hampton – Purchased and Sold in Bothell – 2006
Real Estate Broker Testimonial – Woodinville/Bothell
Real Estate Agent Reference – Bothell
Tony Meier came to my attention through my employer, as he was the realtor who assisted many of our new employees with the purchase of their new homes during their relocation to Seattle. Because Tony was so successful in satisfying our new hires, I decided to have him help me buy my first home. Without a doubt, he is the most patient, smart and energetic realtor I have ever met. Very quickly I found the home of my dreams – so quickly did I make my decision that I think I made Tony a bit nervous. He truly wants every client to be happy and satisfied – without regrets! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Tony to any first-time or experienced homebuyer. He makes the process enjoyable and hassle-free. I will continue to recommend Tony to our new hires and the next time I am ready to buy, I will certainly call on him!
Karen Kohlhepp, HR Manager, Celltech Chiroscience, Inc. – Purchased and Sold in Bothell
Real Estate Broker Review – Bothell
Tony has been very helpful and informative in our search for a home. He is open to suggestions and takes our concerns seriously. We have been pleased to interact with someone who is very friendly, easy-going, and who also has a good sense of humor! Tony has made house hunting a pleasant experience!
May and Mark Sutherland – Purchased in Bothell
Real Estate Agent Reference – Bothell
Tony was and is a great resource for our residential real estate needs. Thanks Tony.
Mike and Melanie Riley – Purchased in Bothell
Real Estate Broker Testimonial – Bothell
Kathy and I enjoyed the home buying experience you provided us. This was our second home and our goal was a family home that is close to work. You were very well prepared with resources to search for homes in the area and in price ranges we requested. I enjoyed seeing the full use of technology from the electronic home searches you did for us to the e-mail and digital pictures. The thing we were most impressed by, however, was how you always did what you said what you were going to do, promptly. You treated us like we were your number one clients. Thank you very much.
Tony and Kathy DeBone – Purchased in Bothell
Real Estate Broker Review – Bothell
We had only a week to buy a home and our friends thought were crazy. With Tony this process was not only possible, it was actually enjoyable! Tony was professional, on top of things, honest and a pleasure to work with. He was there every step of the way from the inspection to the closing. Even after everything was finalized, Tony kept in contact with us to make sure we were happy with the house and to recommend professionals and merchants in our area. Thanks Tony!
Karen Staehling-Hampton & Howard Hampton – Purchased in Bothell (first testimonial)