Purchasing a new home or investment property is a big decision. And selecting the right agent for you is the first step toward success. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, the criteria that make for a great real estate agent are the same. Read on to learn more.
BUYING: SELECTING A REAL ESTATE AGENT
Extensive knowledge of the process
Searching for and buying a new property is exhilarating; enjoy the moment—knowing you have an agent who is fully versed in every step of the real estate purchase. Look for the extensive knowledge that only comes with decades of experience. Every member of our team knows the ins and outs of the process, and keeps an eye out for potential landmines, so you don’t have to.
Neighborhood and market expertise
When you’re looking to buy a home or investment property—particularly in an area you’re unfamiliar with—it’s imperative to have a real estate agent who knows the neighborhood. Any agent can look at comps and local market projections, but the right agent truly knows the area in which you’re buying—from the neighbors and local schools to the area’s best kept secrets! We know Chicago real estate and its neighborhoods’ nuances—because we’ve lived in or owned properties in nearly all of them.
A robust network of partners
Pulling the trigger on your next home purchase is nerve-wracking. And the process can seem even more overwhelming in the face of home inspection results, remodeling ideas and everything else that comes with making a house your home. Choose an agent with a solid, trusted network of service providers—from inspectors to contractors. Our referrals are the leaders in their respective segments—and can save you headaches, heartache and even money.
Excellent negotiation skills
Some real estate agents might encourage clients to submit full or close-to-full-price offers simply to speed the purchase process and secure a bigger commission. Choose a real estate agent you trust to look out for your interests first. At Alex Stoykov Group, we take great pride in our integrity, shrewd negotiating skills and ability to close deals quickly and successfully.
Ongoing commitment—even after the purchase
Any homeowner knows—the journey doesn’t end at closing. Questions regarding tax exemptions, mortgage statements, home repairs and more often crop up. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a trusted advisor in your corner? At Alex Stoykov Group, we maintain solid relationships with our clients long after the sale—happy to help answer any questions that may arise as they settle in. So from making you aware of post-purchase tax exemptions and guiding you through the paperwork to offering referrals for contractors and handymen, we’re here long after closing.
OUR PROCESS
1. Nice to meet you!
Chatting and getting to know you helps us do our best work when it comes to finding your dream home.
2. Let’s get pre-approved
Mortgage pre-approval helps offer budget guiderails and ensure smooth negotiations. We’ll refer mortgage brokers, if necessary, and answer any questions during the process.
3. Time to find your dream home
Browse the best properties the market has to offer—and even those not yet on the MLS, thanks to our inside access. We’ll help you narrow down your search and be by your side during property visits, providing invaluable advice along the way.
4. Submit the offer
Rest assured—we dot our “i”s and cross our “t”s when drawing up an offer. This is a truly collaborative process between our team and your family. We’ll review all the necessary elements—close date, financing and more—to ensure you’re 100% comfortable with your initial offer.
5. Negotiations begin
If the seller doesn’t accept your first offer, we’ll work immediately and diligently toward an outcome you’ll be happy about.
6. Perform the due diligence
Upon acceptance of your final offer, we’ll help arrange inspections and provide close consultation if issues arise. We’ll also provide solid referrals for real estate attorneys, title companies, etc., and arrange for the closing.
7. Time to close!
Before close, we’ll be present with you at the final walkthrough, to ensure everything is in order and in accordance with the terms of previous agreements. We’ll be there at close too, so everything goes off without a hitch!
WHAT OUR BUYERS SAY ABOUT US
“Working with Alex is always an absolute pleasure every step of the way. I continue to use his service and expertise on properties in Chicago. Not only is he knowledgeable on all areas of the city, he is very in tune with everything that is on my wish list. He always takes time to get to know me and learn what would best fit my needs. We scheduled multiple appointments and he was able to work with me even with short notice due to my schedule at hospital or office. Once I decided to put in an offer on a place, he did everything in his power to get me the BEST DEAL possible. He introduced me to necessary support staff to help me with inspection, closing and even the best moving company to use. I am most appreciative of how easy to reach and responsive he is. I would recommend Alex to anyone looking for a great real estate broker.”
“When I moved from Boston to Chicago, Alex was invaluable. I needed a home in a hurry, but I am very picky. Alex devoted a day to showing me many possibilities, connected me with my lawyer, arranged a fast closing. I sold the house at a nice profit this past summer and Alex was again my “go-to guy”. The process was more leisurely, and Alex supported me as I looked at dozens of possibilities. He gave me referrals for the movers as well as workers I needed for repairs. Seriously, it was like having a full-service assistant. He goes far beyond what you expect from a broker. If I ever move again, there is no doubt Alex will be the first person I call.”
“Buying a home is a very personal experience and it is important that the people you are working with understand your needs and expectations.
As a first-time home buyer, I was admittedly a bit scared to take the leap! After meeting with Alex, any anxiety I had turned into excitement as he was consultative, knowledgeable and provided me with the personal service you would hope, and expect, when making a large purchase. Alex guided me through the entire home-buying process from my initial search, extending an offer, negotiating (an amazing) price, closing, and followed up multiple times to make sure I had settled into my new home. I consider myself very fortunate, in large part to Alex, and can’t wait to be able to work with this talented and wonderful individual again.”
