The 10 Must-Nots When Buying a Home

Buying a home is an exciting journey, but it’s not without its pitfalls. After getting your offer accepted, you might think the hard part is over—but the truth is, there are still many steps ahead, and any misstep can turn your dream home into a missed opportunity. Hi, I’m Crystal with Elite Realty Group - Redfin, and I’m here to help you navigate this crucial phase of the home-buying process.

Over the years, I’ve seen many buyers make critical mistakes after going into contract on their homes. To ensure you avoid these common pitfalls and enjoy a smooth closing, here are the 10 must-nots when buying a home:

1. Don’t Change Jobs, Become Self-Employed, or Quit Your Job

Your employment status is a key factor in your loan approval. Lenders prefer stability, so any changes can raise red flags. Stick with your current job until after closing to avoid any hiccups in the process.

2. Don’t Buy a New Car, Van, or Truck—You May End Up Living in It!

While a new car might seem like a great idea, it’s best to wait. Purchasing a new vehicle increases your debt-to-income ratio, which could jeopardize your mortgage approval. Keep your spending in check until after you close on your home.

3. Don’t Use Any Charge Cards or Let Your Accounts Fall Behind

Your credit score is crucial during this period. Making large credit card purchases or missing payments can lower your score and affect your loan terms. Keep your spending minimal and make all payments on time.

4. Don’t Spend Any Money You Have Set Aside for Closing

The funds you’ve saved for closing are vital, so don’t dip into them for other expenses. You’ll need every penny to finalize your purchase, so keep that money untouched until the deal is done.

5. Don’t Omit Any Debt or Liabilities from Your Loan Application

Full disclosure is key when applying for a loan. Lenders need to see a complete picture of your financial situation, so don’t hide any debts or liabilities. They’ll find out eventually, so it’s better to be upfront from the start.

6. Don’t Buy Any Furniture, Even If the Payment Is Deferred Until Closing

It might be tempting to start furnishing your new home right away, but major purchases can alter your financial standing. Hold off on buying furniture until after closing to avoid any issues with your loan approval.

7. Don’t Allow Any Additional Inquiries on Your Credit Except for Insurance Purposes

Every time someone checks your credit, it can lower your score. Avoid applying for new credit or allowing unnecessary inquiries during the home-buying process.

8. Don’t Make Any Large Deposits or Take Out Any Large Withdrawals Without First Checking with Your Lender or Agent

Lenders will scrutinize large transactions, so it’s important to consult with them before moving significant amounts of money. This helps ensure everything goes smoothly with your loan approval.

9. Don’t Change Bank Accounts

Consistency is key when it comes to your finances. Changing bank accounts during the approval process can complicate things, so keep your accounts stable until after closing.

10. Don’t Co-Sign on a Loan for Anyone—Not for a Car, Not for a House, Not for Anything

Co-signing increases your liabilities and can negatively impact your loan approval. If you’ve already co-signed for someone, be sure to inform your lender right away.

By following these 10 must-nots, you’ll help ensure a smooth home-buying process and increase your chances of a successful closing.

If you have any questions or need guidance throughout the process, give me a call. I’m here to provide you with all the information and support you need to stay on track.

I’m Crystal with Elite Realty Group - Redfin, and I’m here to elevate your home buying experience! realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

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𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

The Power of Disruptive Digital Marketing in Real Estate

 

The Power of Disruptive Digital Marketing in Real Estate

When was the last time you shopped online? Whether it was Amazon or Google, the ease and convenience of the digital marketplace have become second nature to us all. But did you know that real estate is no different? In today’s competitive market, simply placing a yard sign on the lawn and listing a property on the MLS is no longer enough. If your home isn’t getting the exposure it deserves on the platforms where buyers are most active, you could be missing out on serious opportunities.

Hi, I’m Crystal with Elite Realty Group - Redfin, and I’m here to share why maximizing your home’s digital presence is crucial for a successful sale.

The Shift to Digital House Hunting

The way buyers search for homes has dramatically shifted. Did you know that 95% of buyers now start their home search online? Even more striking, 77% of those buyers use social media to find their next home. Yet, despite these numbers, only 16% of real estate agents incorporate social media into their marketing strategies—and just 1% are doing it effectively. This gap represents a massive missed opportunity for sellers who aren’t leveraging digital tools to their full potential.

Elevating Your Home Selling Experience

As a dedicated real estate professional, my goal is to provide more than just the basics. That’s why I’ve developed a disruptive, strategic digital marketing plan designed to get your home in front of thousands of potential buyers every week. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve already experienced the reach of these efforts.

Using the same cutting-edge tools and techniques employed by Fortune 500 companies, I ensure your home gets the attention it deserves. Through targeted advertising, engaging social media campaigns, and innovative digital strategies, I connect your property with qualified buyers who are actively searching for homes in the DFW Metroplex, including Southlake, Keller, and Haslet.

Why Settle for Less?

The real estate market is constantly evolving, and to stay ahead, you need more than just traditional marketing methods. By embracing disruptive digital marketing, we can ensure your home doesn’t just get listed—it gets noticed.

If you’re ready to elevate your home selling experience and take advantage of these powerful tools, give me a call. Let’s work together to maximize your home’s exposure and achieve the results you deserve. realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

The Down Payment Assistance You Didn’t Know About

 

Believe it or not, nearly 80% of first-time homebuyers qualify for down payment assistance, yet only 13% actually use it. If you're looking to buy a home, this is a mission-critical gap to close—and fast! Taking advantage of available resources could be the difference between waiting and owning your dream home.

Maximize Your Down Payment Potential

First-time buyers, here's the deal: there are a ton of resources available to help you make that initial investment. For instance, many loan programs only require as little as 3% down, and if you’re a Veteran, you may even qualify for 0% down.

Down payment assistance programs, like grants or forgivable loans, are often designed to help cover upfront costs. These programs can be game-changers, helping you get into a home sooner and with less financial strain. If you haven’t already explored these options, now is the time. By working with a trusted lender, you can uncover programs that can boost your down payment and lower your long-term mortgage costs.

Here’s why that matters: a higher down payment not only reduces your monthly mortgage payment but can also help you avoid fees like private mortgage insurance (PMI). So, it’s a win-win situation.

Don’t Let Headlines Scare You

Lately, news outlets have been buzzing about rising down payments. According to Redfin, “The typical down payment for U.S. homebuyers hit a record high of $67,500 in June, up 14.8% from a year earlier.”

But here’s the thing: that doesn't mean you need to put down that much. Most buyers with large down payments are seasoned homeowners leveraging the equity they’ve built over time. For first-time buyers, down payment requirements are still low, often starting at just 3%.

So, don’t let those big numbers scare you. Higher down payments are largely driven by two key factors:

1. Lowering Monthly Mortgage Payments: With rising interest rates, many buyers are putting down more upfront to reduce their future housing costs.

2. Equity from Existing Homes: Current homeowners are using the equity they’ve built to make larger down payments on their next home. First-time buyers often don’t have this advantage, but assistance programs can help bridge the gap.

The Bottom Line

The best step you can take is to talk with a trusted lender about your options. They’ll help you figure out where you stand and which resources you qualify for. Assistance is out there, and by working with a real estate professional, you can take full advantage of it.

Remember, it’s not about the headline numbers—it’s about finding the right path for you. Let us elevate your home buying experience! 

realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

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𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

The Importance of Pricing Your Home Correctly: 4 Signs You May Be Asking Too Much

Every seller’s dream is to sell their home quickly, for top dollar, and with as little stress as possible. If you're in the process of selling, you likely share this goal. But one of the biggest obstacles standing between you and a successful sale could be the asking price for your home. Pricing it correctly is one of the most critical factors in the home selling process, and getting it wrong can lead to missed opportunities.

So, how can you tell if your price is too high? Here are four signs your asking price might be scaring off potential buyers and why leaning on your real estate agent can help you adjust your strategy and get back on track.

1. You’re Not Getting Many Showings or Offers

A lack of foot traffic is one of the clearest indicators that your home might be priced too high. If your house has been on the market for a few weeks with only a handful of showings—or none at all—buyers might be deterred by the price. Buyers today are savvy and can quickly recognize an overpriced listing, especially if they’ve been actively house hunting for a while.

Data shows that homes priced competitively typically receive more showings and offers within the first two weeks of listing. If your home isn’t generating much attention, it’s time to consult your real estate agent. They can recommend price adjustments or other strategies to get buyers through the door, like staging changes or enhanced marketing efforts.

2. Buyers’ Feedback Is Consistently Negative

While it’s great to get showings, if the feedback is consistently negative—especially around pricing—it’s a red flag. Buyers may compare your home to others they’ve toured and note that your price doesn’t reflect the value they’re seeing elsewhere. This kind of feedback is invaluable as it can highlight areas where you may need to make improvements or reconsider your asking price.

Your real estate agent will collect and analyze this feedback, helping you adjust your strategy to align with buyer expectations. Sometimes, a small update, like modernizing hardware or refreshing a room with paint, can justify your price. Other times, a price reduction might be the best way to stay competitive.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), “Agents adjust their price recommendations based on market conditions, property uniqueness, and other factors that influence value.” Working closely with your agent ensures that you can make informed decisions based on real-time data.

3. Your Home Has Been on the Market for Too Long

A home that sits on the market for an extended period without serious interest can raise red flags for potential buyers. They might wonder, “What’s wrong with this property?” The longer your home is listed, the more it risks becoming "stale," which can make it even harder to sell.

Your real estate agent can provide insights into the average days on market for homes in your area. According to a report by Bankrate, if your home has been listed longer than comparable properties, it could be time to consider a price reduction or other tactics to reignite buyer interest.

4. Your Neighbor’s House Sold Quickly

Nothing stings more than seeing a similar home in your neighborhood sell quickly while yours lingers on the market. If nearby homes are moving fast and yours isn’t, it could be due to outdated features, a lack of curb appeal, or, more commonly, pricing that doesn’t align with market conditions.

Your agent will keep tabs on local listings and sales, providing valuable comparisons that can help guide your pricing strategy. Sometimes, making small upgrades—like refreshing landscaping or updating fixtures—can increase your home’s appeal. Other times, the best course of action is adjusting the price to reflect the current market reality.

The Science and Art of Home Pricing

Pricing a home correctly is both a science and an art. It requires an in-depth understanding of market trends, buyer behavior, and the unique characteristics of your property. While it may be tempting to aim high, overpricing can often lead to a prolonged listing and, ultimately, lower offers. According to Zillow, homes that undergo price reductions take longer to sell and typically end up selling for less than if they had been priced correctly from the start.

Your real estate agent is your best resource for navigating these complexities. They’ll use market data, buyer feedback, and their expertise to help you make informed decisions that maximize your home’s appeal—and its selling price.

Bottom Line

If your home isn’t getting the attention you hoped for, it might be time to reassess your asking price. By watching for these four signs and working closely with your agent, you can make strategic adjustments to attract more buyers and sell your home faster. Remember, pricing your home correctly from the start is one of the most crucial steps in the selling process, and your agent is there to help guide you every step of the way.

For personalized advice on pricing your home, reach out to us so we can elevate your home selling experience! realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

7 Tips for an Organized and Stress-Free DFW Move

Moving to the bustling Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex can be an exciting but challenging experience. Even with professional movers at your side, there are many aspects to manage to ensure everything goes smoothly on moving day. Here are seven detailed tips to make your move stress-free and seamless.

1. Plan Parking Arrangements

One of the first steps to a smooth move is arranging parking for the moving truck. Inform your movers where they should park on moving day, especially if you live in a neighborhood with restricted parking or narrow streets. Securing a convenient parking spot in advance can save you valuable time and reduce hassle.

• Label and Direct: Clearly label the items you want moved and specify their placement in your new home to streamline the process. Consider drawing a simple floor plan for the movers, indicating where each piece of furniture should be placed.

2. Ensure Easy Access

Make sure movers have unrestricted access to all areas they’ll be packing and clearing out. Here's how you can ensure easy access:

• Unlock Doors: Ensure all doors, gates, garages, and sheds are unlocked and accessible.

• Remove Obstacles: Clear pathways and remove any potential obstacles that might hinder the movers' progress. This will help prevent delays and ensure a smooth workflow throughout the day.

3. Stay Out of the Way

On moving day, it's important to minimize distractions for the movers. Plan activities for your children and consider booking a pet sitter or daycare service for your pets. This ensures safety for everyone and allows the movers to work efficiently.

• Safe Environment: Keeping kids and pets away from the hustle and bustle of moving day reduces stress and allows for a more organized move.

4. Protect Fragile Items

Transport fragile and valuable items in your own vehicle to ensure their safety. Here’s how you can protect these treasures:

• Personal Possession: Items such as jewelry, important documents, and family heirlooms should stay in your possession.

• Proper Packing: Pack these items carefully with plenty of padding and secure them in sturdy boxes to avoid damage.

5. Clean as You Go

As each room is emptied, clean it thoroughly to leave a good impression for the next occupants or buyers. Here are some cleaning tips:

• Cleaning Supplies: Have supplies ready to vacuum carpets, wipe down surfaces, and check for any forgotten items.

• Professional Help: If time is tight, consider hiring a professional cleaning company to handle the final clean-up after the move.

6. Be Available for Questions

While giving movers space is important, being available to answer questions is crucial. Ensure someone is always around to assist and provide directions:

• Avoid Misunderstandings: Being accessible helps avoid any misplacements or misunderstandings about where items should go or how they should be handled.

7. Double-Check Everything

Before closing the door on your old home, conduct a thorough check of every nook and cranny to ensure nothing is left behind. Here's a checklist for the final walkthrough:

• Verify Empty Rooms: Check all rooms, closets, and storage spaces to ensure they are empty.

• Don’t Overlook Spaces: Pay special attention to attic spaces, basements, and outdoor storage areas, as they can be easily overlooked.

Feeling Overwhelmed? Let Me Help!

Moving can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you need more advice or assistance, call or email me anytime. I'm here to provide you with tips and recommend reliable professional movers in the DFW area. Let me help you save time, money, and headaches by connecting you with the best resources.

Make your move smooth and stress-free with expert advice from DFW Elite Realty. Reach out today to elevate your home buying or selling experience in Southlake, Fort Worth, Keller, Haslet, and the surrounding areas. realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

Why Hiring a Realtor Is Essential for Your DFW Home Buying or Selling Journey

 

Can you buy or sell a home in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex without losing thousands on your bottom line? The answer is yes—but only if you take the right steps, and the first step is crucial: hiring an experienced real estate agent. Hi, I’m Crystal with Elite Realty Group - Redfin, and I’m here to guide you through why working with a seasoned professional like me is the best decision you can make when navigating the DFW real estate market.

The Importance of Expertise and Strategy

In today’s fast-paced real estate market, simply finding a buyer or a home isn’t enough. It’s all about the strategy. You need an agent who not only knows the ins and outs of the market but also has a proven track record of success. Many agents might promise quick sales, but what truly matters is their ability to follow through. Deep local knowledge, solid negotiation skills, creative marketing, and a history of delivering results are what set great agents apart from the rest.

Just like you wouldn’t perform surgery on yourself, you shouldn’t attempt to buy or sell your largest asset—your home—without professional help. Imagine needing a hip replacement; you wouldn’t go to a foot doctor, right? You’d choose a specialist who knows exactly what they’re doing. The same logic applies to real estate. Whether you’re buying or selling, hiring an agent with the right experience can make the difference between maximizing your investment or leaving money on the table.

Why Having an Advocate Matters

One of the most critical reasons to hire a realtor is to have someone who is dedicated to your best interests. Real estate transactions can be complex, with potential challenges at every turn. Whether you’re buying or selling, you need a professional who will advocate for you, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure that your needs are met throughout the entire process. This kind of support is invaluable, especially when it comes to negotiations—think of it as hiring the best attorney to represent you in court. Your home is likely your largest investment, and you deserve to have someone with a strong negotiation record on your side to secure the best possible deal.

The Bottom Line: Choose Experience

In the DFW Metroplex, the real estate market is dynamic and ever-changing. To navigate it successfully, you need a knowledgeable agent who knows how to negotiate, market your property effectively, and provide strategic advice tailored to your unique needs. I’m Crystal with Elite Realty Group - Redfin, and I’m here to ensure that your home buying or selling experience is as smooth and profitable as possible.

Let’s Connect and Elevate Your Real Estate Experience

Don’t take chances with your most significant asset. Hire a specialist with the experience and expertise to guide you every step of the way. If you’re ready to explore your real estate options or just want to chat about the market, let’s connect. I’m here to help you achieve your goals and elevate your home buying or selling experience in the DFW Metroplex. realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

Unwritten Laws of Real Estate: 7 Things Agents Do Without Being Taught

Real estate agents have to go to licensing school and pass a test before they can help anyone buy or sell a house. But those classes don’t really get into the nitty gritty of being an agent in the field. They teach rules and regulations, and of course how many square feet are in an acre (it’s 43,560 if you’re wondering)…

Then they usually get some training through the company they join, which is definitely more useful in terms of teaching them the ins and outs of working with clients.

But there are some things agents aren’t taught in either or those settings — yet, somehow, every agent seems to say or do certain things as if it were straight out of a new agent handbook.

Here are 7 unwritten rules that every agent follows, without having been taught:

1) Low-Key Stalking Open House Visitors

If you walk into an open house, there’s a 99.9%* chance the agent will instinctually say, “Feel free to look around, and just let me know if you have any questions.”

This implied freedom open house visitors feel will be short lived, however, because there’s also a 99.9%* chance they will then proceed to follow them around the house, just close enough to seem helpful, but far enough to avoid looking like a stalker.

It’s a delicate art of looking super casual, while trying to keep an eye on strangers roaming through a house you’re in charge of, and not so creepy that they won’t want to become their client.

(*These very specific percentages are 100% made up…)

2) Trying to Remember Which Lights the Owner Left On

No real estate agent leaves a showing without muttering to themselves, “Did I turn off all the lights?” There’s a ritual to it: a quick mental scan of every room, followed by a once-over of the house that may include retracing steps, flicking a switch or two just to be sure, while questioning whether that one hallway light was on or off when you arrived. This process may be repeated up to three times, just to be sure, even if it means being late to the next appointment.

3) Putting Some Lipstick on a Pig sty

When a potential seller opens the door to let an agent in to do a listing presentation, they somehow manage to hone in on something about the house to compliment within the first 30 seconds. The place could be an outdated pig sty, but they’ll still find some way to make it sound like the most amazing place they’ve seen in their career.

4) The FSBO Headshake

When driving by a “For Sale by Owner” sign, all real estate agents mutter, “Good luck with that,” followed by a disgusted shake of the head. This is often accompanied by a sigh or a quick prayer that the seller will soon come to their senses and call a professional… preferably them.

5) Point out Every House They’ve Sold…

Drive through any neighborhood with an agent, and you’ll inevitably hear, “I sold that house.” Often followed by, “And that one,” if you’re riding with a top producer. It’s a point of pride — a little victory lap as they mentally catalog their territory. If nobody is actually in the car with them, they’ll simply turn their head and look at it in silent recognition.

6) …or Even Ones They Didn’t Sell!

Honestly, if you’re in a car with an agent, they’ll probably point out houses you pass by, even if they merely showed the property to a buyer who never ended up buying it. For added credibility, they’ll mention something specific about the home, like the gourmet kitchen, the quirky layout, or that their buyer took a pass because of the funky smell in the basement.

7) Patting Their Pockets, and Jiggling the Locks

As agents leave a house after showing it to a buyer, they must:

• Triple-check to make sure the door is locked
• Pat their pockets to confirm they have their phone
• Make sure they didn’t leave the keypad they use to open lockboxes inside the house
• Jiggle the lockbox to make sure the key is secure

Having done all of that, there’s always that nagging feeling that something’s been left open, even though they just checked. In extreme cases, agents may even turn back after pulling out of the driveway, just to give the front door one last tug. realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

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