Sammamish real estate agents offer advice to potential buyers and sellers
According to Zillow, the average home value in Sammamish has gone up 11.1% over the last year. With rising home prices and declining supply, several Sammamish real estate agents provide insight on today’s market to help the community make more educated decisions.
Bob Papke is a real estate agent from Re/Max. According to Papke, most buyers are not looking for projects. Buyers prefer homes that require little to no refurbishment or repairs after purchase.
“In today’s new market, it [the house] must be updated to get the best price. If you are unable to afford updating your home, then you must price accordingly,” Papke said.
He also advises sellers to price their homes based on market conditions rather than relying on Zillow and Redfin algorithms. He strongly recommends that experienced full-time agents assist in determining the right price, as they can do so more accurately and efficiently.
Karen McKnight, a real estate agent from Keller Williams Eastside, has similar advice.
“The price is 80% of what sells a home…the marketing is 20%. Hire a listing broker who does a very thorough written market report to recommend your best listing price,” McKnight said.
When purchasing a home, agents advise buyers to consider a variety of factors to ensure a smart acquisition.
Neelam Singh, a real estate agent from Re/Max, encourages sellers to be attentive and strategic, highlighting the importance of understanding the online shopping pivot.
“This [technology] has even changed the way closings are done. E-signatures, remote notarization, and digital closing means buyers and sellers don’t even have to be in the same state to close a deal,” Singh said.
Singh and Papke also encourage buyers to carefully assess their financial situation while navigating the house market.
“Don’t try to time the market. Buy when you are ready and really able to take the long-term financial burden,” Singh said.
Papke voiced similar beliefs and added that purchasers on a tight budget who are looking to immediately move into a home should consider more than just brand-new listings. He emphasizes that older turn-key homes are excellent options as well.
“Focus on homes that have been on the market for a couple of weeks because everyone likes the shiny new listing,” Papke said.
Sammamish real estate agents strongly advise buyers and sellers to remember that navigating the housing market takes time and effort. If they cannot commit enough time, agents recommend seeking the assistance of a professional real estate agent.
“You must be a constant student of the 23 various markets on the Eastside, changing industry standards, and technological developments to be the best agent for your clients,” Papke said.
Singh offers a similar perspective for potential buyers.
“Housing is not for fast profit, and it is not normal to make a quick buck. When you are becoming a homeowner, keep a ten-year outlook,” she said.
