Tag Archive for: REALTOR

Having The Essentials For Real Estate Success

Realty Network Group is excited to announce the addition of another dynamic real estate professional, Sable Stephens. Sable joins our firm after a successful year in the field and is eagerly awaiting more opportunities to help both buyers and sellers alike. Our industry has agents from many different walks of life. There are retired teachers, insurance salespeople, law enforcement agents, to name a few.

 

Sable’s background is in the food industry, where she’s been waitressing for the past six years. Believe it or not, successful waitstaff know a thing or two about being successful in real estate. Sable has a proficiency predicated on strong interpersonal skills. Waitressing has allowed her to develop a knack for providing great customer service, the ability to communicate and negotiate well, not to mention an aptitude for problem solving. Both in the food industry as well as real estate, reading customers is something she takes great pride in. She makes people feel welcome. Sable has an ability to work well under pressure. She has the capacity to maintain her composure within fast-paced settings, which exist both at restaurants as well as real estate transactions. Moreover, she’s learned valuable lessons with time management, enabling her to be there for her clients when they need her most. There’s a benefit to being flexible with both selling food in addition to selling homes! Waitresses and real estate professionals often work irregular hours, especially weekends and evenings. Furthermore, Sable has experience knowing her audience, providing options that will appeal to her dining customers or in real estate, her clients who are looking for value in a particular school district or neighborhood. “Food service has taught me to be attentive, accommodating and patient, all of which are essential for real estate success,” emphasizes Ms. Stephens. “This industry calls for thinking-on-the-go and finding creative solutions, which help me navigate tough real estate deals.”

 

Sable was born and raised in Tunkhannock. She has a love for our region and enjoys sharing that with buyers and sellers as they take a step forward on their life’s journey. Over the years it was her appreciation for interior design that sparked her interest in real estate. Moreover, her and her mother’s pursuit in homeownership, gave Sable the realization that she could incorporate her passion for design with the nuances of real estate. Her new joy is now found in helping families obtain their dream home or aiding them so they could plan to sell or move on from the home where so many memories were forged.

 

Sable understands the challenges that homebuyers and sellers face in today’s market and how important it is to have an agent and a brand behind the consumer, who can provide exceptional resources, tools and guidance. “I believe Realty Network Group enhances client relationships by building trust and assisting their agents to discern the needs of each client,” explains Ms. Stephens. “I chose this company because they’re agent-focused, providing ample support and marketing for their network of associates.” She believes this firm equips their salespeople with vivid marketing, vital tech and resources, not to mention a group of persons who are all working together toward similar goals. It’s this type of network that grants agents the freedom to learn and grow, especially early in their career.

 

Sable is energized as she leans into this new phase of her development as a REALTOR®. The needs of her homebuyers and sellers are paramount and her priority in her day-to-day life in this industry. Her diverse interests, including a love for animals and attempting new things, make her one of the more interesting faces in local real estate for years to come.

 

If you’re looking to invest in real estate, find your forever home or sell the one you currently reside in, give Sable Stephens a call right away @ 570-665-2089.

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No Real Estate Advocate? What To Look For In An Agent

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Beginning your journey toward homeownership can be intimidating. Likewise, if you find yourself looking to sell your home, you might be wondering where to start. These are perfectly normal responses when you’re interested in purchasing a home or listing one. So, you’re in need of a real estate advocate, someone who will be in your corner every step of the way. This professional should be someone you can trust, who can provide you valuable information, communicate in a manner that matches your lifestyle and has a proven track record in this market. Ideally, you’ll want to seek out top rated real estate agents who have built a reputation for excellence. So, what should you look for in a real estate agent?

Agent? What Do You Mean Agent?

Before we jump into the specific “virtues” you’ll want to look for in an agent, let’s define what an agent is. According to Investopedia, a real estate agent is a “licensed professional who arranges property transactions, connects buyers and sellers, and represents them in negotiations.” In fact, part of their definition is our tagline: Connecting buyers and sellers. That’s what we do! We as real estate professionals bring homebuyers and sellers together. We help buyers find the property they’re looking for—this representation is known as being a buyer’s agent. We also help homeowners list and sell their properties — this representation is known as being a listing agent. Of course, these are simplified descriptions of these two common types of representation.

It’s important to note that there are other modes and hats agents wear, such as transaction licensee and dual agent in addition to whether a professional is solely an agent or a REALTOR®, but for the sake of brevity, we won’t dive into those here. Yet, it is imperative that this agent is a “licensed professional.” They should be licensed in the state where they represent consumers looking to buy or sell. They are required to complete coursework as well as pass a national and state exam. You can verify if an agent is licensed in our state of Pennsylvania by visiting the PA Department of State’s website.

Are You Looking To Buy? Here Are The Qualities To Seek In An Agent

If you don’t have a clue on where to start as you begin the home search process, here are a few areas to concentrate on, which will help you find a real estate agent you can certainly be happy with. First, it’s important to seek after a professional who has a firm grasp on your market. Specifically, this person should have deep knowledge about the neighborhood(s) you’re interested in, what’s trending now and what property values look like in the areas that appeal to you. It would be wise to ask the agent what their track record is in those neighborhoods or school districts you hope to reside in. Many top rated real estate agents have experience across various neighborhoods and can provide invaluable insights.

Secondly, is the agent willing to communicate with you regularly? The agent might touch base with their clients once a week, even if there’s little to no news to share, yet this would be something to clarify with them so proper expectations can be set. You’ll want to ensure your method of communication (email, text, phone) aligns with theirs.

Next, confirm they have the time to dedicate to you as you search for that dream home. What days and times are they available to show you properties? Are they available on the weekends or in the evenings? Again, setting expectations is critical early on in the process.

Another factor to consider is what others are saying about this professional you are considering. What have past clients said about their experience working with them? If you cannot find any testimonials, make sure to request references of past clients that you can directly speak to and tap into their experience with the agent. Working with top rated real estate agents often means you’ll find a wealth of positive reviews and references to back up their reputation.

Are You Looking To Sell? Here Are The Qualities To Seek In An Agent

Many of the above qualities also apply for owners looking for a top-notch listing agent. This real estate professional should absolutely be someone you can form a great rapport with, who you can trust and who has your best interests at the forefront. They should have solid communication skills, provide feedback on showings and market changes, and match your style of correspondence. They should be experienced with years in the business selling homes. Top rated real estate agents are also skilled negotiators, securing the best price, terms and conditions for their clients.

When seeking out the services of a listing agent, it’s critical that you approach them with one question in mind: How will you market my property? Most everything falls in line under this concern. First, what is their knowledge of your neighborhood? This prospective agent should have a firm grasp of buyer preferences, what’s trending locally and recent sales in your school district. Clarify if they’ve sold homes similar to yours.

How To Choose An Agent

At the end of the day, there are numerous criteria to consider when selecting a real estate professional. Make no mistake about it, top rated real estate agents take effort to discover, but your research can pay dividends. Purchasing the home you always wanted for less than its market value through an agent’s negotiation skills is most certainly worth the effort. Likewise, selling your property for the best price possible despite current conditions, because an agent is familiar with your neighborhood and has done an exceptional job marketing it to prospective buyers, is most certainly worth the hard work of detecting an agent who suits your needs. At Realty Network Group, we pride ourselves in working hard for clients as we look to understand their goals, first and foremost.

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First-Time Homebuyer Advice: Navigating The Purchase Process

Buying a home today is more complex than it was five years ago, as the market was gaining intensity – favoring sellers and their interests. Despite the pendulum shifting in the direction of homebuyers, there are those who are overwhelmed by the intricate process of a home purchase. Yet, some of the most intimidated are first-timers, who have never pursued homeownership before. Luckily, there are several programs available that can provide assistance to make this journey a little easier for first-time homebuyers. Below, we’ll attempt to present some of the challenges, resources available and the steps one should take as they seek homeownership for the first time.

The current market presents a myriad of challenges for first-time homebuyers. With rising home prices and limited inventory, finding an affordable home can be daunting. Buyers are still over-bidding now and again, and coming up short in multi-offer situations. In Pennsylvania, home prices have continued climbing, with a median sales price of $216,249 (up 4.2% year-over-year). A housing supply issue exists in the state as well, listings are down 23.4% year-over-year.* Additionally, competition from cash buyers and investors can make it difficult for first-time buyers to secure a home. Furthermore, strict lending requirements and high down payments can also pose challenges for those looking to purchase. The latter might not apply unless loan options such as FHA, VA, USDA and the like are not a possibility. To account for these challenges, first-time homebuyers should do thorough research, work with a trusted REALTOR®, and if they’re serious about shopping for a home in the current climate, be ready to make competitive offers at a moment’s notice. It may also be helpful to consider alternative financing options and be open to exploring different types of homes or different areas (i.e. alternate school districts, check out rural living over suburban or city living).

There’s good news for those who may have been classified as first-timers in the past, but haven’t purchased a home in over thirty-six months. They would likely be labeled as first-time homebuyers once again. In the industry, lenders do have various indicators, differentiating themselves from others in the business. These requirements for buyers can vary from institution to institution. Some of the typical criteria for first-time buyers includes a steady income, where a job history of two or more years must be validated, a clean credit history, a credit score of 620 or more, a debt-to-income ratio below 43% and a loan down payment of at least 3%. Furthermore, if you presently own a mobile home or have owned one within that three-year window, lenders will often grant you first-time buyer status since the rules for mobile-home ownership are unique.

Education in life goes a long way, and prospective buyers would do well to study up. The best way for first-time homebuyers to get educated on available programs is to do their research. First, talk to your real estate professional. An experienced REALTOR® has dealt with your situation before or one that was similar. Your agent will provide you with a roadmap of several avenues to follow, including homebuyer education classes/seminars as well as utilizing various online resources. These services can help buyers figure out their loan options by providing information on different mortgage programs, down payment assistance programs and other financial assistance options. It’s important for first-time homebuyers to take advantage of these resources to ensure they make informed decisions and find the best program for their individual needs. In Pennsylvania, there are programs geared toward assisting first-time homebuyers such as the Keystone Home loan program, the Keystone Advantage Assistance loan program and the HOMEstead program, just to name a few. Each state has programs in place to assist those who can qualify as first-time buyers. Moreover, there are local programs, such as NeighborWorks, who support buyers as they journey toward homeownership.

Buyers should expect help from their REALTOR® as it pertains to available first-time homebuyer assistance programs. After all, that’s the support real estate professionals provide – to counsel their clients in making the best decisions at each stage of their progress. If their agent doesn’t have the answers, they’ll direct them to the experts who do. These assistance programs can be complicated to navigate, but REALTORS® have the knowledge and expertise to guide buyers toward success. They can provide information about the eligibility requirements, the application procedures in addition to the potential benefits of these programs. They can also assist with finding the right program for a buyer’s specific needs and helping them gather all the necessary documents and information. With their lead, buyers can feel more confident and informed about taking advantage of these valuable resources to make their dream of homeownership a reality.

First-time homebuyers, listen up! As thrilling as it is to finally have a place to call your own (and it is), it’s important to manage your budget wisely and ensure you can qualify for a loan. Trust us, you don’t want to end up house-rich, cash-poor, where you’ve pumped all this equity into your home, but you’re struggling to pay your bills month after month, and regretting the decision you made to purchase. Before you buy, do a test run and start by setting a realistic budget and stick to it. Consider all expenses, including homeowners insurance, taxes, mortgage insurance (if applicable), utilities, maintenance and other debts you may have. When the time comes to acquire a loan, do your homework and shop around for the best interest rates and programs to suit your needs. Don’t immediately settle on the first lender you encounter. Don’t be afraid to negotiate and be aware of any hidden fees (such as points). Remember, a little bit of budgeting and savvy negotiating can go a long way in making your dream home a reality.

The good news is more help is on the way for homebuyers. The day when buyers can pay market value for a home without constant interference from other buyers or pay below market value in efforts to get a deal will become a reality once again. A time when buyers won’t feel rushed into making hasty decisions about homeownership is on the horizon. In the meantime, do your search and thoroughly understand all aspects of homeownership before making any decisions. With the right guidance and resources, purchasing your first home can be a rewarding and exciting experience. Happy house hunting! Take a look at our houses for sale in Clarks Summit PA.

* Latest Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS® Housing Report – Sept 2023

Other first-time homebuyer resources:
8 Steps You Should Take When Purchasing Your First Home
First-Time Homebuyer Tips

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Why Homes Sit on the Market: 5 Fixable Reasons

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 Don’t let your home sit—let it stand above the rest of the competition and be noticed. If there’s one thing we counsel our clientele on today, it’s making a distinction between their home and others “on the market, not selling.” What are the unique selling points of their home? What is the state of the market, even as granular as their neighborhood? Are there comparable properties selling right now? Putting together a vivid picture of the subject property and how to elevate it above other similar homes could mean the difference between fewer days on market and maybe even a multiple offer situation. Understanding why homes sit on the market can help sellers create an effective strategy.

1. Pricing

This is the obvious. The elephant in the room. We’d be deceiving ourselves if we didn’t mention this one first, because it’s the most important and for good reason. Remember, the whole process for a buyer begins (or should begin) with an honest assessment of what they can afford and tailoring their search around that benchmark. The buyer consults a mortgage lender, discovers how much they’re pre-approved for, compares that to their financial situation, determines their must-haves when previewing homes, and investigates the market. Homebuyers, especially if they’ve been searching for some time, have an eye for present circumstances and how compatible properties have fared.

Sellers who better understand what buyers are witnessing in terms of pricing can better estimate and position their property for its initial release. That’s why having a REALTOR® generate a competitive market analysis (CMA) tailored to the seller’s home is ideal for understanding how to price it correctly. Although we might be in a period of correction, the market still favors sellers. Because of this, real estate professionals may advise homeowners to set their list price toward the higher end of its value range.

2. Repairs

When owners anticipate selling, they should review all aspects of their property to determine what needs repair and what could benefit from an upgrade. Ideally, this should be done months ahead of time. Consulting a REALTOR® can help owners judge which repairs or updates would help sell the home and which ones to avoid. Sellers want to skip changes that buyers won’t care about or that might negatively affect value.

Some homeowners pursue a “pre-listing” inspection, where a professional evaluates the home and pinpoints potential issues to address before listing. Though less common, this step can be extremely beneficial in certain cases and prevent scenarios where homes sit on the market due to condition concerns.

3. Curb Appeal

We emphasize this often—because it matters. Do you want increased engagement and more prospective buyers to see your home? One of the quickest ways to attract attention, both online and for in-person showings, is to create an inviting atmosphere. The exterior facade will either captivate or deter onlookers. It’s that simple. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, fresh landscaping, trimmed shrubbery, and a new garage door can all enhance appeal.

However, homeowners shouldn’t go overboard. Changes that don’t appeal to most buyers or that seem too high maintenance could turn people off. Sellers should avoid spending on upgrades that won’t deliver a return on investment. Enhancing curb appeal the right way can make a difference in why homes sit on the market or sell quickly.

4. Buyer Incentives

Offering buyers and their agents meaningful perks can help your home stand out. One popular incentive is a home warranty, which covers the home while it’s listed and provides coverage for the buyer after closing. This protects both parties and adds peace of mind.

Other incentives include seller concessions or closing credits. These financial boosts help buyers cover costs and may tip the scales in your favor. Some sellers offer a buyer’s agent bonus, which encourages agents to prioritize showing your home. These strategies can help minimize why homes sit on the market for extended periods.

5. Marketing

Investing in a knowledgeable real estate professional who understands current market conditions can reduce time on the market. Experienced agents know how to position a property for maximum exposure and understand what’s selling—and why.

Sellers should choose a REALTOR® and brand with a track record of attracting a large pool of buyers. Aggressive, strategic marketing and a willingness to go the extra mile are must-haves. Agents should have a clear plan for how to get your home noticed and shown. Without strong marketing, it’s easy to see why homes sit on the market unnecessarily.

Take Action Now

As a homeowner, some factors—like location or costly upgrades—may be out of your control. But the five listed above are well within reach. Sitting down with your agent to create a strategy based on these tips can ultimately reduce the number of days your home stays listed. Understanding why homes sit on the market helps sellers prepare and adjust before listing.

If you’re considering selling, even if it’s months away, it’s never too early to plan. Contact one of our professionals today to get started!

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Why the Mind of a Buyer Agent is Important

Understanding the Mind of a Buyer Agent: What Today’s Buyers Should Know

For those entering the housing market, especially first-time buyers, navigating the complexities of real estate can feel overwhelming. Many buyers aren’t entirely sure what to look for in a home or in a real estate agent. This is where a buyer’s agent—a trusted advisor in the real estate transaction—becomes indispensable. Not only does a buyer agent prioritize the buyer’s needs, but they also “make a continuous and good faith effort to find a property” that aligns with the buyer’s goals and budget, as long as no other contractual obligations are in place.

Why Trust and Communication Matter in the Buyer Agent Relationship

The relationship between a buyer and their agent should be founded on trust, built from the initial meeting. A buyer agent’s commitment is to protect their client’s interests, ensuring confidentiality, negotiating on their behalf, and safeguarding them from pitfalls. As Ann A. Sheroda, Associate Broker with Realty Network Group, highlights, “Buyers have to be able to get in touch with you, their buyer’s agent. When they can’t, there’s frustration, distrust, and, quite frankly, a sense of abandonment.” Successful real estate transactions are rooted in strong relationships; a trusted buyer agent fosters this bond, ensuring the buyer feels supported every step of the way.

In the mind of a buyer agent, the top priority is ensuring that the buyer’s experience is smooth and informed. An agent committed to communication and transparency will be an invaluable guide, from understanding market conditions to making smart property decisions.

Protecting Buyers’ Interests: The Core of a Buyer Agent’s Role

In a competitive market, buyers need an advocate who will help them secure the best property for their needs and budget. A buyer’s agent plays a critical role in this, acting as the buyer’s safeguard throughout the process. “It’s the buyer’s agent who needs to protect their client,” Sheroda emphasizes. “If they won’t, who will?” From recommending reputable lenders, title companies, and inspectors to ensuring the contract terms favor the buyer, an agent’s responsibilities extend far beyond the initial search. For instance, they coordinate property inspections to ensure that potential issues are addressed before closing, preventing buyers from investing in a money pit.

The mind of a buyer agent and their connections provide clients with access to trustworthy professionals who help secure a seamless transaction. Sheroda shares, “If a buyer previews six homes that aren’t suitable, it’s our job to show them more until we find the right fit.” This commitment reflects an agent’s dedication to the buyer’s goals rather than rushing the process.

Why Every Buyer Should Have Representation in Today’s Market

With home prices at record highs and mortgage rates fluctuating, it’s critical for buyers to have someone in their corner. A buyer’s agent not only helps clients find suitable properties but also negotiates on their behalf and advocates for them at each stage of the transaction. Representation has become a must-have for buyers, particularly given the financial stakes in 2023’s housing market.

However, entering a buyer-agent relationship without care can have drawbacks. Sheroda points out that unresponsive agents can leave buyers feeling neglected. “It’s frustrating when you can’t reach your agent, and flexibility on their part is essential,” she says. Good buyer agents prioritize communication, understanding that if they’re not committed to their client’s success, they risk failing them during one of the most important purchases of their life.

Buyer Beware: The Risks of Poor Representation

One of the worst situations a buyer can face is feeling trapped in an agreement with an agent who doesn’t meet their needs. Lack of communication, poor availability, and a disregard for the buyer’s best interests can leave a buyer feeling unsupported. This can be particularly damaging when unexpected challenges arise in the home search or during contract negotiations. “Don’t think dealing with the listing agent is the answer,” Sheroda advises. In Pennsylvania, a listing agent can represent both buyer and seller through dual agency, but this often results in a less personalized experience. Instead, a dedicated buyer agent ensures the client’s needs remain the top priority.

The Importance of Trust in Real Estate Guidance

In her 17 years of experience, Sheroda has seen many scenarios where clients felt pressured to make an offer. She advises buyers to avoid purchasing out of urgency. “I once had a client considering a property that needed significant repairs, and I advised them to walk away,” she recounts. Sheroda’s client appreciated her honesty, understanding that her guidance was based on the client’s best interests. A good buyer agent provides objective advice, even when it means advising a client not to make an offer.

Sheroda advocates for a “trial by error” approach to selecting an agent. Buyers should find someone they feel comfortable with and who they trust to act as their advocate. “If I weren’t licensed, I would still use a buyer’s agent,” she says, underscoring the value of an agent’s expertise. With insights on market conditions, negotiation strategies, and networking, buyer agents offer comprehensive guidance from the initial search to settlement.

Selecting the Right Buyer Agent: Key Questions to Ask

When choosing an agent, buyers should consider asking about their experience, availability, and area of specialty. A good agent has a network of reputable professionals, from lenders to inspectors, ready to assist in the homebuying process. Buyers can also benefit from interviewing an agent’s past clients to learn about their experience and reliability.

Here are a few essential questions for potential agents:

  1. How long have you been licensed as a real estate professional?
  2. Is your schedule flexible, and does it align with mine?
  3. What’s the typical timeframe for buyers you work with to find and purchase a home?
  4. Do you specialize in certain areas or types of real estate?

Why Buyer Agents Matter in Today’s Market

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments in a person’s life. Working with a buyer agent who prioritizes trust, communication, and the buyer’s best interests makes all the difference. A trusted advisor helps clients avoid common pitfalls, negotiates on their behalf, and connects them with the resources they need to make an informed decision. An effective buyer agent is not only an advocate but a resourceful partner who helps buyers achieve the best possible outcome in their home search.

For anyone considering entering today’s competitive market, an experienced buyer agent is a critical asset, ensuring that each step of the journey is informed, strategic, and supportive. With the right agent, buyers can navigate the complexities of real estate with confidence and peace of mind.

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What’s A Real Estate Broker? And What Do I Do When I Find One?

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The search for a home begins online. It has for some time. In fact, consumers are surveying the terrain and pouncing on anything that hits the market like a school of piranha, unsure of when their next opportunity to eat will surface. You can’t blame homebuyers either. Today, the ones that remain, still looking to purchase, have repeatedly struck out in their attempts for homeownership. Now, feeling the pressures of inflation, higher mortgage rates and rising home prices, they’re looking to get in before the door closes on their “must-haves” and what they can afford.

The winds of a housing shortage have shifted, new listings with a slowdown in purchases have given way to more selection – finally some welcomed news for prospective shoppers. Yet the search becomes very real for them as they exit the digital environment, previewing actual houses, and doing so in a more urgent manner than buyers did only three years ago. Buyers should rely on the services of a real estate professional whenever possible, because representation is critical for protecting the interest of buyer-clients, especially in this market. And you probably have questions.

What type of real estate professionals exist today and what do they look like? There are four main distinctions homebuyers should be aware of, and they are: real estate agents, REALTORS®, REALTORS® with an ABR® designation and Brokers.

  • Real estate agents – Independent contractors who are connecting buyers and sellers and are licensed to help others rent, buy or sell real estate. Licensure requirements vary from state to state. These professionals should not be confused with REALTORS®, but regularly are.
  • REALTORS® – Licensed real estate agents who are also members of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and must likewise adhere to this organization’s code of ethics. These professionals can include real estate appraisers, salespeople, Brokers and more.
  • REALTORS® with ABR® designation – Members of NAR who have a particular skill set and frequently work with homebuyers in their day-to-day business. These professionals are usually more in accord with the trends affecting buyers and are equipped with knowledge to help their buyer-clients succeed.
  • Brokers – Licensed professionals who further their education, and if they so desire, can open their own real estate firm, hiring independently contracted agents to work under them. They perform many of the same tasks as the agents they hire, but there’s a distinction between the two.

A handful of real estate agents become Brokers after a period of time in the business. Often those pursuing licensure as a Broker are ready to dedicate more study to this field. They’ve firmly planted themselves within the real estate turf surrounding them. Having said that, real estate agents who aren’t Brokers can and are certainly encouraged to dedicate more time and study to the business as well.

What is it like to be a Broker? “The dynamics of real estate have changed significantly over the past five years, but the standards of practice remain the same,” emphasizes Dianne Montana, Principal Broker for Realty Network Group. “I enjoy working with a talented group of professionals, helping them thrive, ultimately paving the way for our clients to buy and sell successfully.” Being a Broker allows for additional independence (more than solely being an independent contractor), but with that comes greater responsibility. Brokers are responsible for supervising the agents in their Brokerage and ensuring the office/company is in compliance with national and state real estate laws and regulations. Real estate Brokers face their fair share of liability as well, and as such, it’s important for Brokers to possess an advanced skill set in order to be both distinguished and ethical.

As a homebuyer, which of these four types should you seek when actively looking to acquire property? There’s no clear cut choice, but a REALTOR® is definitely a great starting point. Those specializing in servicing buyers generally provide the best opportunity. Furthermore, a REALTOR® with an ABR® designation could be a perfect match, especially for first-time homebuyers. Can you go wrong with a Broker? Usually not, but it’s imperative that those pursuing real estate do their due diligence in finding a professional they can work well with, one who actively listens and has a tract record for success.

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Time, Patience & Magic

Theresa DeMario Plisko becomes the newest addition to join Realty Network Group. As someone who has more or less lived her whole life in Northeastern Pennsylvania, Theresa knows the communities and markets well within this region. Though she excels in areas such as Moosic, Taylor and Old Forge, she looks forward to assisting homebuyers and sellers throughout the Greater Scranton area as well.

Over the past five years, Theresa has grown into her role as a successful REALTOR®. Prior to that she worked with her husband’s construction company for over twenty-five years. Through this experience, she understands how to coach sellers to effectively list and buyers on what to look for when searching for a home. “The reward in this business comes when my clients discover what they’re looking for,” exclaims Theresa. “The timetable varies from person to person, but the important thing I like them to remember is we’ll achieve our goals if we take it one step at time.” To her buyers, she reviews the pros and cons of homes presently on the market. To her sellers, she’ll have candid conversations about pricing, staging, among other things, even if it’s not what they want to hear.

Theresa’s approach to real estate over the years has defined her together with how she cares about her clients and their investments. She has many other strengths, including an understanding of market trends, effectively pricing a home, curb appeal, home construction, home staging and design. “I sought out a company with a strong reputation, who is respected among my peers,” underscored Theresa. “This was one of the reasons I became part of Realty Network Group. They’re a smaller company, which has similar camaraderie to the real estate business I first worked with, The Agency Real Estate Group.”

Real estate is the perfect match for agents like Theresa, who truly enjoy pairing buyers with properties that make sense for them and their families. Buying a home is a huge investment and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re looking to buy or sell a home, choose a real estate professional who is easy to work with and who has the expertise to deliver the results you’re seeking. Contact Theresa DeMario Plisko today at 570-851-8511 or via email at [email protected].

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Forward-Thinking: The Key To Real Estate

Realty Network Group’s newest REALTOR®, Lisa Armetta, looks forward to the demands of today’s real estate market. Lisa has lived in Northeastern Pennsylvania her whole life. She understands the region, the culture, but most especially its inhabitants. “Our community is loaded with hidden treasures, including its people,” attests Lisa. “Locals need an advocate who will act (when need be) and guide them through the real estate search, transaction and beyond.”

With over thirty years experience in all facets of the restaurant and bar industry, Lisa understands firsthand how to treat clients well. Repeat business has always been extremely important to her! When customers come back, time and time again, it says something about your business: your product and your personal brand. Leaning upon her achievements in managing thriving area businesses, her focus now has shifted. Running a successful real estate business is her goal.

It’s important to work with professionals who understand how daunting the purchase of a home or business can be — it’s a large investment, to say the least. Lisa recognizes how vital it is for those involved to be comfortable with their purchase. Her wish is for her clients to not only see the property for what it is, but also be able to experience it for what it could be, its potential, a reflection of them.

“I chose Realty Network Group because it’s a small business, who’s very involved in our community,” asserts Lisa. “They have a wonderful reputation for supporting their agents and their clients. I’ve spent most of my career building small businesses, where people are family. I desired a company who was inline with that philosophy. My hope is to help prospective buyers find the right property to build their ‘family,’ even if it’s a business one, and help sellers find the right buyer.”

Being involved in real estate over the years, Lisa has a good understanding of potential setbacks for buyers and sellers. Forward-thinking is essential in this business. When Lisa sees opportunity for her and her clients, she acts. She’s an achiever, who will work tirelessly for her clients’ needs. She’s ready for the challenges that lie ahead in this market as well as the next one.

Seeking the services of a professional, but you’re hesitant because of a prior bad experience? If you’re thinking about making a move in 2021, call Lisa Armetta today at 570-840-1793 or via email at [email protected].

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The Same Principles Apply

Realty Network Group’s newest REALTOR® is a native of the Scranton area and currently resides in Eynon. “I understand that where you live and who you represent are most important,” describes Michael Turlip. “These values have been instrumental in my life and continue to guide my endeavors.” Mike Turlip graduated from the University of Scranton in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. From there he served in the U.S. Army for four years as a Military Policeman. In January of 2002, he was deployed to Afghanistan following the events that occurred on September 11, 2001. Upon returning, he completed an overseas tour in Europe, serving as a member of NATO at the Supreme Allied Headquarters in Belgium. His experience in the military has instilled in him what it means to sacrifice and serve others. In 2005, he was accepted to the Pennsylvania State Police Academy in Hershey, Pennsylvania. For the past sixteen years, Mike has continued to serve the public as a Pennsylvania State Trooper.

“My experience in public service has embodied the principles that we as Americans should strive for every opportunity we can,” emphasizes Mike. “I’m thankful for my experience and wish to utilize this drive, which has developed from my military background, in order to be successful. My success will translate to success for my clients and that’s my priority.” Mike understands how central buyers and sellers are to real estate in 2021. He grasps the connection between homeowners, investors and tenants far greater than most real estate professionals who are beginning to grow their business.

Mike has always had an affinity for real estate. Eight years ago, he purchased his first investment property. “I think real estate has always offered me a challenge that intrigues me,” asserts Mike. Whether it’s buying a fixer-upper and transforming it back to a neighborhood treasure or investing in rental properties that provide affordable, well-maintained housing to those in the community, the growth of his portfolio has meant more to him than sheer assets. Investing in our community is foremost, and coupled with his passion to serve others. As a real estate professional, Mike fully intends to provide his clients with knowledgeable service, based on his experience, while taking into consideration their real estate goals.

For the past two decades, Mike has served in some of the most prestigious organizations in the country. The principles conveyed through them, led him to Realty Network Group. This company takes pride in serving its clients well and adheres to the highest standards in the real estate community. Loyalty and service to those we represent coincide with his values as a veteran and a State Trooper. He looks forward to applying these same principles to assist and meet all of his clients’ real estate needs.

If you’re seeking the services of a real estate professional who is dedicated to finding your forever home or selling your current one, contact Michael Turlip today directly at 570-290-4421 or via email at [email protected].

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Selling Beyond Home

Alice Manley is the newest agent to join forces with Realty Network Group. She infuses thirty years of sales expertise with an interest and passion for matching up buyers and sellers. Connecting both parties in a real estate transaction is more than a science. There’s an art to marketing homes or leading buyers in pursuit of theirs. Alice’s vast experience in media and hospitality are added advantages for her and her clients.

Alice will be a valuable asset to the firm as she brings a strong work ethic and a motivation to succeed into the field. She has a desire to work hard for her clients understanding that sometimes you don’t get a second chance to sell for the best price, terms and conditions as trends change. She’s also committed to homebuyers as they begin what will be a remarkable journey toward homeownership! She’s driven to succeed, realizing her successes will be victories for her clients too. Another strength for Alice is her problem-solving abilities. She has an uncanny sense for stopping issues in their tracks and moving toward a resolution that’s acceptable to everyone involved, especially her buyers/sellers.

“If it doesn’t feel right, we’ll search until it does,” expresses Alice. Her words to buyers never ring truer than they do now in a seller’s market. “Your ‘forever home’ wraps you in comfort like an old blanket, gives you refuge during difficult days and is always waiting for you after a long journey. Everyone deserves this and I look forward to bringing this experience to others.”

Alice has lived her entire life in Northeastern Pennsylvania. She loves all the area has to offer, including its seasons, natural landscapes and close-knit communities. She hopes those moving into the region or growing into it can have these experiences as well. “It’s an exciting time in real estate in NEPA,” underscores Alice. “I chose Realty Network Group because of a working relationship I had with one of its owners. It was knowing this person that attracted me to the company. I was certain of the value, integrity and respect I would find there. Furthermore, they train each new REALTOR®, like myself, which was incredibly important to me.”

Are you seeking the services of a real estate professional who’s extremely motivated and will work hard for your interests? Contact Alice Manley now at 570-954-3701 or via email at [email protected].

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