What Realtors Do

Sometimes I feel like I am in the most misunderstood industry. I have to admit that before I became a Realtor, I probably didn't understand what a Realtor really "did" to earn their commission either. I think many see the images on TV (HGTV to be specific) and think "hey, that's a pretty easy gig". An article written by fellow Realtor Kris Berg http://lowes.inman.com/newsletter/2011/04/28/news/142064 magnified a point I have known for a long time. A good Realtor works really hard!

Often the public thinks a Realtor simply puts a sign in the yard, a home on the internet and waits for buyers to spot it, fall in love and make an offer. In fact, some think it is so easy, they decide to do it themselves OR pay a firm to list it on the MLS. The folly in this is
A. if you just stick a sign in the yard, the person across town or across the country will not know your home is for sale even if it is perfect for them and
B. you could be like a recent For Sale By Owner I came across. The sign stated it was on the MLS, but I knew all the homes in that neighborhood and had never seen it. After specifically putting in the address there it was - with the wrong information for its location, city and any other factors someone desiring that neighborhood might use to look. Once again, you get what you pay for.

For buyers, I remember seeing a House Hunters on HGTV where the young couple chirpily states "we've seen over 100 homes, we're not going to settle no matter how long it takes". In the background their diligent Realtor, in amazingly good spirits, who will not be reimbursed for his time, gas and expenses until they close on their dream home. I know I have been showing homes to a family for a year, and I don't want them to settler either. I want them to find the house that says "this is home!"

I'm not sure the point I am trying to make except to say I work hard in Real Estate (as do most of my fellow Realtors). I read, and read, and read articles and legislation that affects Real Estate. I study market trends in neighborhoods, I continue my education to be the best and informed I can be. I try to stay current on technology and marketing trends. I work tirelessly for my buyers and sellers - usually on weekends and evenings to accommodate their schedules. I fill the gap when they can't be present. I communicate, communicate, communicate so nothing is missed and everyone is informed.

Yes I work hard. Why? As a recent string of conversations of Realtors on Linkedin state - it's because we love serving people and find great satisfaction in helping our clients achieve their goals whether it's a home sale, investment property, or the perfect home. Seeing the smile on someone's face when they realize "yes, this is it!" is amazingly gratifying and it's what I do.

The Reviews are In!

If you missed our  Homebuyer Workshop, you missed out on a variety of useful information to help you in your homebuying journey. Here is what one attendee wrote to my broker:

"I would like you to know, I received an e-mail today from Karen Sherrill regarding the homebuyers workshop I attended on Saturday. I found the workshop to be very well put together, informative, and full of useful tips. I also, would like to say how refreshing it was to receive a follow up e-mail thanking me for attending and letting me know to contact her if there is anything else she could do to help. I hope your company will do more of these workshops as I would enjoy to learn all I can on buying a home before I make such a large investment."

All those who attended rated it a "10" and said it was well worth their time. Each walked away with information about loan programs as well as tips to improve your credit score. If you couldn't make the workshop don't be discouraged. I still have all the information shared available and will be sharing it periodically on this blog.

If you would like to receive the Homebuyers Toolkit Brochure we handed out, just email me with your name and address and I will put one in the mail to you FREE! mailto:karen@karensherrill-homes.com

Be watching for more informative meetings in the future!

Homebuyers Workshop TOMORROW!!!!!

APRIL 16TH - 10 A.M. it's FREE.  I hope you'll come and bring a friend.  Visit http://www.clearlaketxhomebuyers.com/ for more information.

Only 11 Days

It's only 11 days to the FREE Homebuyers Workshop!  I hope you will help me spread the word.  If you're a homeowner you already know the benefits of owning a home - why not share with a friend who is renting OR a child or family member who may just be starting out on their own.  No need to buy right away. This will give practical steps to set up a plan for future homeownership.


Saturday - April 16th
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Gateway Community Church
760 Clear Lake City Blvd, Houston 77598

*Door Prizes
*Food Provided by Chick-fil-A and Kookie Kreations

contact:mailto:karen@karensherrill-homes.com

This homebuyer workshop, which is part of the Texas Association of Realtors Housing Initiatives Program, will present you with the information to help prepare you to comfortably purchase and keep your home for years to come.

Other participants are: Simien Properties, Hometrust Mortgage, Wells Fargo, AAA Texas, Farmers Insurance, and National Credit Foundation

Text ATTEND to 7138175710 if you plan to come