I often use this platform to educate my readers about various topics related to community and real estate. This month, I’d like to let you know what sets me apart from other local real estate agents and why you would want to choose to work with me. You have a lot of options when it comes to selecting your real estate advisor.Many don’t give much thought to who they work with – they meet someone at the grocery store or see their sign on a bus bench ad and assume that one agent is just as good as any.Some things to consider when choosing who to work with are experience in the industry, experience with the type of property you are looking to buy or sell, legal track record and exposure, tools and services they bring to the table for you, connections, and communication skills, for starters.What you can expect from Megan is:
1. 20 years strong – I have been representing buyers and sellers successfully for the last 20 years here in San Diego. In fact, I started working for real estate agents, brokerage officeand loan officers as early as 16 years of age up in northern California, so you can say I grew up in this business. Becoming an expert in this industry takes time. One must learn the nuances of negotiation, forge relationships with fellow Realtors, study various qualities of the myriad communities and neighborhoods San Diego has to offer.Over the last 20 years, I have learnedmore than I ever could have imagined about sewer lines, foundations, drainage patterns, chimneys, roofs, termites, and more. Having an understanding of all this, and more, allows me to properly prepare my clients for what to expect, how to successfully identify an appropriate property, or identify the appropriate buyer for your property.
2. Buyer & Seller Representation – Some agents will indicate they “only work with sellers” or “only work with buyers.” I have always worked with both.As a result, you can rest assured that I have my thumb on the pulse of what the buyer and/or seller mindset is at any given moment in the market. Effectively, I help my clients set realistic expectations and better prepare them for how to navigate through the purchase or sale successfully.
3.“Vintage” vs. New Construction – If you are buying or selling real property in the City of San Diego, chances are huge that the subject property is not new construction (with the occasional exception). Purchasing or selling an older home comes with a completely different set of “rules” than a new or more recent construction property does. For example, foundations may need some maintenance or repair, or sometimes replacement. Sewer drain lines may be cracked or have significant build up. There may have been an addition put on in 1965 that does not appear to have documented permits at the City on file. The home may have an older electrical panel. The chimney may not be lined or safe for use. I am here to help you interpret these challenges so you know what to expect, what is generally acceptable, or “normal” with a home of such age, and what can you reasonably expect the seller or buyer to address.
4. Risk Management – I am a proud 10 year veteran of the Risk Management & Professional Standards Committee with our local real estate Association, the largest in the State of CA. This committee oversees professional and ethical conduct and hears complaints from consumers against other Realtors as well as Realtors against Realtors, and imposes consequences . Not only am I able to give back to my real estate community by volunteering my time with this, I am also constantly exposed to all of the unethical conduct that transpires on a regular basis.
5. Tech & Tools – My affiliation with COMPASS opens up an entire worldfor my clients that other brokerages just cannot compete with. From our interactive, user-friendly search platform, to our national network of agents (if you need real estate services almost anywhere in the nation, I can help connect you), and video/marketing tools and support are second to none. The Compass Concierge program, alone,has helped many of my clients prepare their homes for sale without spending their money up front (you can borrow against your equity to prep a home for sale at no cost – its simply repaid at close of escrow. Certain terms and conditions apply, of course). I am also known to place huge emphasis on preparing your home for “launch” on the market, often spending hours staging your own furniture and bringing in my treasure trove of accessories so that you can set your property apart from the rest, just as I set myself apart from other agents.
6. Community and Industry Connections – I invest in my communities both with my time and my financial resources.I have volunteered for years as well as sponsored events throughout the year both in Kensington and Talmadge, as well as other local San Diego communities and schools/non-profits.My investments contribute toward enhancing the lifestyle of the neighborhoods I serve. I hope you see this as valuable as I do.
7. Individual Agent = Unparalleled, Personalized and Individualized Service – My goal is for you to wonder if you are my only client. I oversee every aspect of your real estate transaction from our first communication, to showing you property, to educating you on market activity, preparing your home, contract presentation, inspections, negotiating, all the way through closing and beyond. I will not “schlep” you off to a team member, buyer’s agent, listing coordinator, etc. When you work with Megan, that is who you get from start to finish.
Thank you for reading a little bit about Megan and what she can do for you. If you would like more information or just to connect with her, give her a call any time at 619-944-2798.