The real estate market gave Six Flags a run for the money the past couple of years, taking all involved on a rollercoaster ride that would put “Goliath” to shame. Will 2023 be any different? It depends on who you ask, but one thing you can likely count on is that the ride isn’t over yet. While most experts agree that buyers have gained some ground, sellers still hold many of the cards, especially in areas where inventory remains low. And although mortgage rates seem to have stabilized a bit – at least for now – many sellers are sitting on low-interest-rate mortgage loans and can more easily hold out for the offers they want. In spite of that, it is speculated that this year the highs and lows will begin to even out, and we should see more consistency across the market, from rates to prices to inventory.
So how should home buyers and sellers proceed given where we are today? We asked Catherine Nesset of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty for her advice. “With patience,” she said. And went on to explain that “Under the best of circumstances, buying and selling a home can be stressful, and a little patience can go a long way, especially in times like these.” Quite fittingly, Catherine has earned the nickname “the patient agent,” by working tirelessly over her 25+ year career in real estate to take as much stress out of the buying and selling process as possible for her clients. Going on to share, “There is nothing that gives me greater pride than assisting and guiding both buyers and sellers toward a happy closing.”
One thing that Catherine stresses, however, is that it is important not to confuse patience with inactivity. In a market where inventory generally remains lower than demand and will likely stay that way for the foreseeable future, being ready to move quickly on an offer for the right property is of utmost importance. Working with an agent that has a proven track record of successfully balancing patience with speed and agility has never been more important for buyers and can be the difference between getting your dream home, going back to the drawing board or even, in some cases, getting taken.
But what about sellers? While sellers are still at a bit of an advantage, the gap is beginning to narrow. Catherine points out that “Although the market overall is seeing signs of a better balance between buyers and sellers, each area is unique, and anyone selling a home should aim to work with an agent that has experience successfully selling properties in their specific area.” She goes on to add that sellers should also work with a real estate professional that has a strong network and an outstanding reputation, attributing much of her own success to the relationships she has worked hard to build and maintain over the years. In a highly competitive industry, that is not always easy to do, but if an agent does not have a long list of professional references that speak highly of him/her, it is an immediate red flag.
For both buyers and sellers, Catherine also stresses that in today’s competitive market, it is critical to work with an agent that is tech-savvy. While she is known for leveraging technology and using innovative marketing techniques to work efficiently, price properties correctly and strongly negotiate for her clients, some agents are not as skilled in this area. And when it comes to winning in today’s market, she says, “Along with patience, it is necessary to work with an agent that leverages all the tools at their disposal, no matter which side of the “For Sale” sign you are on.”
Catherine Nesset
c. 404.788.7444
o. 770.604.1000
catherinenesset@atlantafinehomes.com