Go Team

I wrote a few weeks ago about persons that you will want to have on “your team” if you are buying or selling real estate whether you are a homeowner or investor. I spoke about the importance of having an attorney, realtor, and contractor on your team. Their skill and expertise are critical.

Though an attorney, realtor, and contractor are important team members, there are also some other team members you need as follows:

HOME INSPECTOR- Whether you are a buyer or seller, have a licensed home inspector on your team. A home inspector examines thoroughly the house and looks far beyond the carpet, paint, and the number of rooms. They provide an objective viewpoint about the condition of the roof, HVAC system, and the like. Why most people think of using home inspectors before buying a house, they also can a good friend to home sellers . A home inspection report can give persons interested in your home piece of mind about what they are buying.

APPRAISER- Most people only think of appraisals when they are buying a house and/or financing it. An appraisal gives an objective view of what a property is worth right now based on the recent sales and the characteristics of the property. No one should want an appraiser to tell them what they want to hear, but what they need to hear. Like a home inspection report, an appraisal can help persons selling their home to “price it right”.

INSURANCE AGENT- You will also want a good working relationship with an insurance agent. If you an investor or landlord, you will want to make sure that you have insurance not just on your property but liability insurance against yourself.

ACCOUNTANT- Perhaps it important that I offer full disclosure that my wife is an accountant. An accountant is an important member of your team not just for counting income and expenses, but for helping you understand the tax consequences of buying and selling property.

If you are looking for members of your team, solicit recommendations from other homeowners or real estate investors. Feel free to interview the prospective team members and ask questions. Good luck in your search. Go team.- Randy Wall, Lora Lee Properties