As I have discussed in previous blogs, when it comes to buying or selling in Lake Tahoe, choosing a local South Lake Tahoe Real Estate expert is KEY. As with any service, you usually do your research to find an expert who specializes in what you are looking for. South Lake Tahoe real estate is no exception. In today’s competitive real estate market, it is crucial to find someone who not only has your best interest at heart, but someone who has been in the business a long time.
There are a lot of people who hear about a South Lake Tahoe realtor’s success (not knowing the time, energy and money that goes into this business) and jump in thinking it will be quick money. Once in, they realize they underestimated the work, odd hours, local nuances, paperwork, time and the money it takes to be successful in this industry and they either pick up a second job or put South Lake Tahoe real estate on the back burner.
When it comes to making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, you need to make sure you pick someone who is not only dedicated to this business but also their clients.
If you watch ABC’s Modern Family, you are likely familiar with the character Phil Dunny. He is big hearted Realtor who is always going above and beyond for his clients. In fact, in a very recent episode, he created an oath that he holds himself accountable to:
“On my honor, I promise to aid in man’s quest for shelter, to recognize I’m not just in the business of houses — I’m in the business of dreams in the shape of houses. To disclose all illegal additions, shoddy construction, murders, and ghosts. And to put my clients’ needs before my own.”
If you are looking for a South Lake Tahoe realtor, be sure yours has the following traits:
- Knows the local market, from past, present to future. Real Estate in South Lake Tahoe is unlike any other market. We are primarily a second home market that has multiple busy seasons (one of which is dependent on weather) as well as a “shoulder” season (the time in between our busy seasons). When you pick someone who has worked as a local realtor in South Lake Tahoe for a long time, they will know the patterns of the local market and economy. Knowing this information helps them to better advise you.
- Knows the different neighborhoods. You should be able to tell a Realtor is South Lake Tahoe what you want in a home and the neighborhood and they should be able to tell you immediately which local area best suites you. As Phil says, we are not just in the business of houses. We are in the business of matching people with the home that is perfect for them and their needs.
- Knows the paperwork, laws and local government agencies. One of the reasons South Lake Tahoe real estate is different than other areas is the local government agencies that are in place to protect the lake’s clarity. You can’t just cut down a tree in your yard on a whim, you have to get it approved. If you want to add on, you can’t just go down and get a permit and get started. Each property only gets so much additional room to build out, or up. You could be buying a home for the purpose of renting it out as a vacation property. In South Lake Tahoe, that is not as easy as just getting a permit and throwing it on Airbnb. There is a whole process you have to go through if this home is in city limits. You could be doing a huge disservice to yourself if you pick someone who is not well versed in local real estate.
- Above all else, make sure they are honest with you. Make sure they are responsive and clearly walk you through the process. You want someone who can help you navigate any bumps in the road. You do not want someone who sugar coats things just to close a deal.
For more information on buying or selling real estate in South Lake Tahoe, give me a call. I would be happy to help!
