
Realtors® Are Not Created Equal
There are over 16,000 member Realtors® in Northern Virginia between three associations; the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors (NVAR), the Realtor Association of Prince William (PWAR), and the Dulles Area Association of Realtors (DAAR). The largest association being NVAR with over 12,500 members. Buyers and sellers should know the only common denominators shared among practicing agents in Northern Virginia is they have passed an exam to become licensed in the state, activated their license with a supervising broker and joined one of the three Realtor® associations. That's where the similarities generally end.

How Long Do Homeowners Stay in Their Homes?
The average Northern Virginia homeowner stays in their home for 11.1 years before selling. That's a long time and a lot can happen to a home in 11 years - preparing to sell takes time - not just for your home but also for you. Not surprisingly, most of us don't live in our homes day-to-day like we're going to sell tomorrow. We lead busy lives at work and with our family. Maybe we're behind on a spring cleaning. Maybe we're in the middle of a home improvement project that hasn't quite found the finish line. Possibly we still need to contact a professional to complete a few repairs that seem to linger.

What is the Consumer Objective When Hiring an Agent?
The consumer objective is to procure an agent who provides a compelling value proposition. One who has the requisite skill and experience to achieve the consumer's desired outcome while producing the highest qualitative and quantitative benefits. Qualitative benefit is derived from elements like protecting a client's best interests and providing superior customer service. In the case of a seller, quantitative benefit includes selling at top dollar, in the fewest days possible and negotiating low contingency risk. Essentially, the consumer objective is to procure the agent who achieves optimal...

Real Estate is a Business of Contracts
Contracts are serious, complex, legal documents and that's no different when buying or selling a home. In fact, buyers and sellers will be confronted with over 100 legal documents during the process of a typical home purchase and settlement. Exceptional agents have a thorough knowledge of the contracts and know how to write them and manage the process in a manner that protects their client's best interests, money and possible legal complications.
Caveat Emptor = Buyer Beware
Virginia is one of a few states in the U.S. still operating under the common law concept of Caveat Emptor, meaning "Let The B...
