Finding a Home in a Tight Real Estate Market

If you are a buyer right now you are likely ready to pull your hair out.  Interest rates are low making it the perfect time to buy but there is nothing on the market.  In a balanced market there is plenty of inventory to meet the demand and the buyers have a good amount of options to choose from.  In today's market homes that are in desirable neighborhoods and are in good condition get offers within a matter of hours.  How are buyers supposed to compete in this kind of environment?  

We have been through markets like this before.  It is definitely frustrating for buyers and for us as well but real estate is an ever evolving animal.  We have to be able to adjust in order to meet the needs of our clients.  I am here to tell you that most agents do not know how or aren't willing to think outside the box.  That is a real disservice to their clients.  So what do we do in this kind of market to make sure our clients find homes?

Guerrilla Home Finding Strategy:

Talk to people -  I know that sounds crazy in today's world of electronic communication but sometimes you have to pick up the phone or knock on someones door to find information that is not readily available to the masses.  We have a strong network of friends in this area and the first thing we do is reach out to the friends in the target neighborhoods to find out if they know of anyone talking about selling their home.  

Mass marketing - Mass marketing is a numbers game but is effective if done correctly.  Letters to neighborhoods asking anyone interested in selling in the near future produces leads for our buyers.  We spend our own money doing this because we want to make sure we do everything we can for our client.

Social Networking - Social media is a great tool for engaging with potential buyers in specific areas.  We know the ins and outs of finding these sellers utilizing social media.  

Agent networking - We have a large network of colleagues that we reach out to when we need to find a property that isn't on the market but will be coming on soon.  This is one reason we always treat the agents on the other side of a transaction with respect and dignity because we know that we may need to their help down the road.  

If you are struggling to find a home and need a fresh perspective, give us a call.  We would love to help.

Eric & Jennifer Ziemer 757-639-9627