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Archives: September 2021

How to Choose a Seasoned Agent for Your Home Sale

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Key Takeaways:

  • Selling your home is a chance to maximize your equity, so you owe it to yourself to find the perfect listing agent.
  • Searching for a listing agent is just as important as your home search, so make sure to meet with at least three candidates before making a decision.
  • We’re telling you the must-ask questions to track down a listing agent—and now, you can put our team to the test when you list your home with us!

Home Sellers, Don’t Settle For Second Best

Many sellers are under the impression that any listing agent can sell their home instantly for the best possible price—but that’s simply not the case. Did you know that 77% of home sellers only contact one agent before listing their home? When it comes to trusting someone with your biggest investment, it’s crucial to do plenty of research to find the right fit. And you should never settle for second, which is why we recommend meeting with at least three agents before making your decision. We’ve outlined some must-ask questions to help you track down the perfect listing agent!

What’s your marketing plan?

tripod set up for property pictures

The best way to sell your home is to expose it to as many prospective buyers as possible, which requires a strategic marketing plan. Ask potential agents about their specific marketing tactics, and you can even have them provide examples from past clients. Just listing your home online and scheduling an open house shouldn’t be the extent of an agent’s marketing plan. As agents who have crafted masterful marketing plans ourselves, we have the data to target your home’s most likely buyers—and even more importantly, we know exactly how to reach them.

How long have you been working in real estate in my area?

realtor walking outside

Almost every agent can boast “decades of combined experience” when it comes to their team’s time working in the real estate industry—but what about selling homes in your specific area? Real estate isn’t the same everywhere, which is why you should choose an agent who is local to your area. This way, you can be confident knowing that your home will be competitively listed in comparison to other properties in the area. And if your agent happens to also work with buyers in the area, then they may be able to direct them to your listing!

How many active clients do you work with at one time?

realtor and client meeting

One of the most important things to analyze about your potential agent is their availability. When asking about an agent’s active clients, you want their answer to fall within a sweet spot range—not having many clients can be a red flag, while trying to sell too many properties at once may mean they can’t provide the personalized experience that you deserve. Working with around 10 to 15 clients at once is pretty standard and should still allow for plenty of one-on-one time between you and your potential agent.

Tell me more about your pricing strategies

discussing home pricing strategies

As a seller, you want to choose an agent who can deliver a top-dollar home sale. A seasoned agent can determine the value of your home in a snap—during your first meeting, go ahead and give them details about your property and ask them for a competitive list price. By doing this, you’ll be able to gauge the agent’s pricing expertise on the spot and ensure they give you a realistic amount. A qualified agent will take into consideration other recently sold homes in the area and ask about any renovations you’ve completed.

And finally…what’s your specialty?

realtors reading property blueprint

While many listing agents have ample experience across the board, many also specialize in certain types of real estate. Whether it be new construction or luxury properties, it’s crucial to see whether an agent’s specific skill set aligns with the features of your home. And don’t be shy about requesting a sold portfolio—this way, you can see if any of the agent’s sold listings are similar to your property.

Use Our Local Expertise—List Your Home With Us

When it comes to selling your home, choosing the right agent matters more than you think. If you want to work with professionals who know the local market better than anyone else, then you should contact one of our listing agents. We have a wealth of cutting-edge seller resources, in addition to our unparalleled passion for earning our clients top dollar on their home sales. We’ve clued you in on all the tough questions to ask, and we’re more than ready to share our expertise with you! Contact us today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com!

2557 Jade Ct., Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Enjoy your private, landscaped backyard from a screened-in porch!

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2557 Jade Court, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Upcoming open house this Sunday! Traditional condo located in a peaceful cul-de-sac. Features include:

  • 1594 sq. ft., + 600 in the lower level
  • 2 bedrooms and 2.1 baths
  • upscale kitchen that’s designed for entertaining
  • gorgeous french doors to open up the space
  • luxurious bathroom with a spa tub and dual vanity
  • accessible features such as an outdoor ramp and seated shower
  • beautifully landscaping front and back entrances
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $349,900

Come check out 2557 Jade Ct. in-person this Sunday, September 19th from 2:00-4:00pm at the open house. To schedule a private showing, contact the condo specialists with The Bouma Group at (734)761-3060 or email info@bouma.com.

Ann Arbor Real Estate Report – August 2021

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Monthly Sold Inventory Declines

The month of August experienced less drastic change in its metrics. A total of 156 listings were added to the Ann Arbor housing market, only a 3.3% increase from the previous August. Properties sat on the market for an average of 17 days, which was a considerable 45.2% drop from the 31 days in August 2020. There was an 18.4% decline in the amount of sold homes, from 141 to 115 recently. The average sale price increased by 5.9% though, $476,076 versus $504,283.

Since the start of the year, 1,288 homes have been entered into the multiple listings service, and this was a 4.4% change from the 1,234 from this time last year. 915 homes have been sold thus far in comparison to the 765 earlier – a 19.6% increase. Cumulatively, the ASP rose 14.1% to $526,753 versus the $461,649 before.

To learn more about Ann Arbor homes, contact the real estate specialists with The Bouma Group at (734)761-3060 or email info@bouma.com. View our active listings here!

110 Fairview Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Cute blue house with bright and clean interior!

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110 Fairview Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

New Listing! This adorable house is the perfect starter home. It’s been well maintained and has some updates, as well as places to make it your own. Features include:

  • 984 square feet
  • 2 bedrooms and 1.0 bath
  • well maintained hardwood flooring throughout
  • fresh kitchen with white cabinets and butcher block countertop
  • half walls frame the kitchen creating an open flow with the living room
  • entertain on the deck in the large backyard
  • amazing location close to parks, schools, and the downtown
  • Virtual 3D tour with floorplans
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $310,000

If you would like a private showing or to learn more about 110 Fairview Rd., then reach out to the real estate experts with The Bouma Group at (734)761-3060 or email info@bouma.com.

3413 Ashburnam Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Darling family home nestled among the trees SOLD!

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3413 Ashburnam Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

SOLD! This Arbor Hills home has fun accents of color both on the exterior and interior. Features include:

  • 1,660 square feet
  • 3 bedrooms and 2.1 baths
  • attached two-car garage
  • windows in every room to let in plenty of natural light
  • all bedrooms on upper floor are perfect for young families
  • surrounding mature trees afford privacy on the back deck
  • unfinished basement provides storage or renovation opportunities
  • Virtual 3D tour with floorplan
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $379,900

Come take a peak in-person this Sunday, September 12 from 2:00-4:00pm at the open house; if you are one of the first ten attendees, then you will receive an ice-cream giftcard! To schedule a private showing of 3413 Ashburnam Rd., contact the real estate specialists with The Bouma Group at (734)761-3060 or email info@bouma.com.

2834 Newport Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Absolutely lovely, upscale home set on gorgeous property!

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2834 Newport Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Featured Listing! While this home may appear quaint from the front, the interior is bright with hardwood flooring and many windows, and the basement is expansive. Features include:

  • 2707 square feet plus 2000 in the completed lower level
  • 5 bedrooms and 4.0 baths
  • regal kitchen inclusive of custom cabinets and granite countertops
  • formal sitting room that’s perfect for retreat
  • luxurious master with a fireplace and ensuite bathroom
  • large balcony facing your own private koi pond
  • walk-out basement with finished patio
  • Virtual 3D tour with floorplans
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $799,000

To schedule a private showing or learn more about 2834 Newport Rd., contact the real estate specialists with The Bouma Group at (734)761-3060 or email info@bouma.com.

108 Henry St #807, Saline, MI 48176 Practically Brand New Condo in Saline!

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108 Henry St #807, Saline, MI

SOLD! Traditional colonial situated on a large lot in the coveted Ann Arbor Hills neighborhood. Features include:

  • 1,882 sqft, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage
  • Custom-built, end-unit
  • Granite counters and maple cabinets in the kitchen
  • Sliding glass doors lead from living room to beautiful Azek deck
  • First floor primary suite
  • More photos and features
  • MLS# 3283756
  • Listed for $375,000

For more information on 108 Henry St #807 or to request a private showing of this home, contact the Ann Arbor Real Estate specialists with The Bouma Group today at 734-761-3060 or email info@bouma.com. View photos and a description of the Ann Arbor Hills neighborhood here!

3065 Nordman Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Charming Home in South Ann Arbor Just Listed!

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3065 Nordman Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48108

Just Listed! This fabulous 1.5-story home is filled with light. Features include:

  • 1,351 sqft
  • 3 bedrooms and 2 baths.
  • Open living and dining room areas feature original hardwood floors and arched doorway openings
  • Kitchen has cathedral ceilings and skylights with butcher block counters
  • Two spacious bedrooms on the main level; Larger one has a walk-in closet with built- in storage
  • Front bath has a charming clawfoot tub to relax in with stylish wallpaper and new flooring
  • Large loft bedroom upstairs
  • Fenced in backyard is lined with mature trees
  • Click here for a 3D tour with floorplans!
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $275,000

To schedule a private showing or learn more about 3065 Nordman Rd, contact the real estate specialists with The Bouma Group at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com today!

The Time to Buy New Construction Is Now

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Key Takeaways:

  • Buying a new build is the best way to craft a home that fits all your needs, and you’ll get the customization you crave.
  • Material costs are on the rise, and you shouldn’t wait for them to come down—invest in new construction now to lock in your preferred price.
  • We have the knowledge and network of connections you need to get started on your new construction project. Give us a call and we can discuss your options!

What if Your Dream Home Doesn’t Exist Yet?

The past year has made many homeowners redefine what their dream home looks like, and it’s something different for everyone. If you’ve spent time searching the real estate market but can’t find an existing home that suits your specific needs, you should consider new construction. Whether it’s a custom-built home, a recently renovated older property, or a spec home in a newly constructed neighborhood, there are tons of options available right now. And luckily for you, we have all the knowledge you need to bring your dream home into existence.

Here’s what you need to know about new construction

new construction home being built

Buying new construction isn’t as simple as selecting a floor plan then signing the dotted lines. There is a detailed timeline for constructing a home that you’ll need to discuss with your builder and lender. When you work with an agent who specializes in new builds, you’ll learn all the nuances that come with buying new construction—plus, you’ll have someone who will always be on your side.

When you decide to buy a new build, you’ll likely check out model homes in the area. At these model homes, you might meet an agent who will give you a tour and tell you a bit more about the builder. In these scenarios, the agent always works for the builder’s best interest, not the homebuyer’s—this is why it’s crucial to find your own agent to guide you from the initial purchase of your new construction home to finalizing the closing documents.

We’ve heard the rumors, too…

stacks of lumber

In the midst of today’s inventory shortage, demand for building materials is at an all-time high, which means resources like lumber certainly aren’t cheap. Almost all costs associated with construction have increased in 2021—and they aren’t expected to come down anytime soon. With this in mind, now is the time to invest in new construction before costs continue to rise.

Partially due to the lack of existing housing supply, about one in four homes are now newly built. Whether you’re interested in a pre-built spec home with less prep work or a completely custom build with your say written all over it, you should definitely take a look at the perks that come with a new build—and customization is just the beginning.

Design your own dream home

designing your dream home

This time, you can have your cake and eat it too—or better yet, you can have your home built with your custom designs in mind. When you choose to build a home from the ground up, you can customize every single detail. New construction homes are meant to be tailor-made to your desires, so don’t be shy about asking your builder for upgrades or personalizations. From an open-concept floorplan to updated finishes and fixtures, the options really are endless when you choose new construction!

Think new car smell, but better

tailor-made kitchen

One of the top appeals of building your own home is that new, never-been-used feeling. When you buy new construction, you’ll get all brand-new appliances. In addition to all the bells and whistles in your new home, it is also likely to have green features like efficient lighting, effective insulation, and smart thermostats—all of which will save you money on your utility bills. And if your new home requires any repairs after moving in, most builders offer warranties and will get everything back in top-notch condition for free within a certain time frame.

Ready to Build Your Dream Home?

Now’s a better time than ever to invest in a new construction home—and luckily for you, we’re the new home experts! We have the local area knowledge and expertise in new builds to help you navigate the new construction process from start to finish. Contact us today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com to make your dream home a reality!

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