TOP 5 IN REAL ESTATE NETWORK, May, 2009-Deborah Dickens
Prudential Florida Real Estate
Years in real estate: 16
Region Served: Naples and Bonita Springs, Florida
Average sales price in your market: $450,000
Average number of days a home spends on the market: 120
What do homeowners first need to be aware of when considering a short sale?
They need to look at all other options first; then and only then consider a short sale.
This can seriously damage their credit rating. They have other options: First, rent out property until the market turns around; second, hold on to it; third, negotiate a loan modification with the lender. Banks are willing to work with you as long as you communicate with them. It is a hassle, but well worth it. Maybe work out a payment plan or some other option. There are tax implications as well. Education is key. Finally, seek a Top 5 professional.
How do you counsel a buyer through a short sale?
There are pros and cons to this process. You can get a really good price for a property, however, you can spend an excruciating amount of time and then you might not get the property. If you have time restrictions, do not do this. You need to work with someone who is trained and can walk you through this process. Missed details can hold up the deal so, again, seek a Top 5 professional.
How much time do short sales usually take?
The short sales we have seen have taken anywhere from 60 days to eight months. communication is key on all levels. You must stay on top of all paperwork and court dates. If you are successful in getting a short sale, your patience could be well worth the wait.
Why did you become a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate?
I like the idea of working with other professionals with the same level of expertise and production as myself. It’s wonderful to be differentiated from other agents who might not take this profession as serious as I do. I hope this becomes the “new normal.” This is a great way to help the public know who they are working with-someone who is dedicated to his/her profession; someone who cares.
How are you utilizing Top 5 consumer materials (ie, brochures, door hangers, Resource Center videos and news, etc.)?
The best is the Top 5 Resource Center I now have on my website. People love the articles and all of the information they can find there. Also The Four Rs of Short Sales brochure is excellent. Knowledge is key. People are so interested in all they can learn in these challenging times.
What was it about Allan Dalton’s Top 5 presentation that most resonated with you?
His path and then, of course, his passion about what he is doing. Integrity, sales and credibility often do not all go together, but with his expertise, he manages to pull them all together.
