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Your Guide to

Home Ownership

Liz McDonald, Broker presents to Teagon Overman

Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism

Dear

Teagon Overman


Buying a home is a rewarding adventure and we're so happy to have the opportunity to bring your real estate dreams to life! In doing so, we aim to instill knowledge and confidence in all our buyers while helping them successfully navigate through every step of the process.

In the following presentation, you’ll be provided an outline of everything you need to know from consultation to handing over the keys. Our mission is to deliver world-class customer service and a winning experience.
Sincerely,

Liz McDonald, Broker

- you're in great hands -

Meet

Liz McDonald, Broker

“I enjoy working with sellers who want to get top dollar for their property through our strategic marketing and good old-fashioned elbow grease.”
I started my career in real estate as a Property Manager, managing single-family homes and investing in rental houses, but quickly realized that helping people buy and sell their home in a smart, strategic way is my calling. My team began developing a marketing program for buyers coming from the D.C. area and beyond to purchase more for their money in a more rural area of Virginia and West Virginia. Over the years, we found that our expertise in attracting buyers from metro areas was extremely useful to our seller clients, too.

In 2003, when I moved from New York City/Washington D.C. to Charles Town, WV, I was lured by the beauty of the area, the community spirit and welcoming people I encountered, and by the fact that I could afford an actual house rather than a tiny hole in the wall! (Fast forward to the present and I still own that house as a rental and haven’t left this fabulous area!)

Many buyers and sellers in the area are like me. They are moving from a more urban area and demand a negotiation plan, whether buying or selling, and a tactical marketing of their property. I enjoy working with sellers who want to get top dollar for their property through our strategic marketing and good old-fashioned elbow grease.

At Dandridge Realty Group our whole team uses systems and technology to make our clients’ experience as informed and seamless as possible. We have an amazing team of agents with diverse backgrounds and experiences to be able to best match with each buyer or seller.

When I am not focusing on real estate, I serve on several community boards including the board of the Contemporary American Theater Festival, Downtown Charles Town Merchant Association, and the Charles Town Building Commission. I’m also the past president of the board of the Jefferson County Farmland Protection Board, which works to protect productive farmland for future farmers in Jefferson County. I am also a graduate of Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service.

I am most relaxed when I am traveling internationally, volunteering at a local festival, or chilling on my deck with my dog and my Man.

Liz on Realtor.com \ Liz on Zillow


How did Dandridge Realty Group get it's name?
Why is it important to have support and training?
How do you ensure agents are providing the best customer experience?
What is the biggest misconception about new REALTORS®?
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Proven Track Record

Service

Provide great customer service by building bonds with clients that lead tolong-term relationships where we truly care about their needs.

Knowledge

By pursuing excellence in our expertise as agents we can better service our clients and lead them to home ownership in a smooth and easy process.

Integrity

Be ethical in all you do and communicate with honesty while paying attention to the details of each and every client, agent, and transaction.

Processes

1

Consultation

We’ll sit down together and help you determine your needs wants and goals while offering my personal industry expertise and strategies for bringing your vision to life.
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2

Pre-Approval

Getting pre-approved will help you know exactly what you can afford so you can confidently focus on the right homes. Plus, it shows sellers you’re serious, giving you an edge when making an offer.
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3

Property tours

After you have reviewed and selected which homes you want to tour, we get to go shopping! This is where you can start figuring out what you really want in your new home.
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4

Write offer

Once we find the home of your dreams, we'll submit an official offer - including but not limited to sale price, inspection contingencies, and closing costs. The seller then has time to accept, reject, or counter your offer.
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5

Under Contract or Escrow

With your offer accepted, we enter a 30-day Escrow period. This involves a neutral third party company that holds funds while conducting a thorough underwriting process to ensure all aspects of the contract are upheld properly
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6

Appraisal

The appraisal is ordered by your lender to protect their investment. They have their own checklist of things they look at for the final approval to move forward. The appraiser can demand repairs completed by the seller before they will give their approval.
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7

Inspections

Now that you've found your home we need to order the inspection. The inspection will let you know what repairs are needed, some are minor and some may be safety issues. Don't worry, you are still protected.
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8

Closing

Congratulations! You now own a home and can get moved in. It's time to celebrate and have your housewarming and show off your home. We will be standing by to answer any questions you may have about home-ownership and have a list of contractors if the need arises.
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Exceptional reviews that reflect a pattern of excellence with my past clients.

Raving Reviews

I was super lucky to work with Marcy Deck. This was my first time buying a brand new construction home and she was/ is fantastic : extremely professional and knowledgeable ! Even though this was not my first time buying a home , there was a lot for me to learn throughout the process and Marcy was not only looking out for my best interest but vey instrumental in helping me understand the process and what to expect. Her knowledge and experience was very helpful when I needed her input from the time I chose the model all the way to the walk through process which she was extremely detail oriented. I cannot speak enough on how happy and lucky I am to have had Marcy through this process and I cannot recommend her enough ! I will for sure doing business with Dandridge and Marcy in the future.
When we started to consider selling our house, we interviewed multiple agents. When we met Marcy, we knew that we had found the right one! She and her team went above and beyond for us! She walked us through the entire process, and was very honest! She had all the right referrals for people and services to help us complete what we needed to, in order to sell the house. She was extremely patient with us, which as first time sellers, was much appreciated! By the time we were finally ready to list, we had an open house, a few showings, and an offer all within the first week. We absolutely could not have done it without her! We would highly recommend her to anyone looking to buy or sell a house!
Heather Norton hands down has to be one of the best realtors in the business! The amount of detail she puts into her work is exactly the type of person you need by your side when you are making such a big financial decision as buying a home! You don't want to feel blindsided and with Heather, you won't. Having Heather as your realtor will give you the peace of mind that you need to close the deal on your new home! I can't explain how appreciative I am for working with her. Will definitely look forward to more future investments knowing I have the best in the game as my realtor!
Elizabeth Seitz was the absolute definition of professionalism and her consistent dedication to courteous, rapid, efficient, intelligent and patient communication with me over the last 3 years of my home buying journey was invaluable. In fact, I'd say these qualities were the key to my success this year when I finally purchased my first home. We probably visited close to 30 homes from 2021-2024 and I put up offers on at least 3 of those. During this time, Elizabeth never grew impatient or pushy, and was always kind and understanding if something didn't feel or look right, or if I changed my mind after doing more research into the home. Her dedication to customer-centric service reflects incredibly well on both herself and the other real estate professionals at Dandridge Realty. Elizabeth Seitz is a perfect example of why Dandridge Realty Group is the top realty agency in the Eastern Panhandle with over 500 five-star ratings on Google. These reviews are there because Elizabeth and her colleagues DO THE WORK. I would highly recommend her to anyone who wants a smart, kind and diligent real estate agent to represent them during the sometimes long and tedious home-buying process. It paid off for me and it will for you too.
Marcy Deck helped us sell 3 properties in the Ranson/Charles Town area. She provided us with accurate information regarding the trends of the real estate market and helped us set reasonable listing prices. She gave us valuable advice on remodeling the houses. Our houses were sold a few days after they went on the market. This is due to her hard work and excellent negotiating skills. She is a very good real estate agent and is also a good friend to her clients. We are very grateful to her and sincerely recommend her to anyone who needs to buy or sell a house.

Loyalty

This custom presentation that I’ve shared with you is an example of the care and effort I put into each client. I recognize that this purchase is one of the largest financial transactions of your life and it deserves careful consideration and wise planning. In light of this, I feel strongly that mutual respect and understanding are key components of me helping you accomplish your real estate goals.

Reviewing each others roles and responsibilities as we embark on the next steps of your home-buying journey is how we can decide if we are ready to be loyal to one another.
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Starting August 17th, 2024

It is required to complete and sign a written agreement before showing a home. This applies to buyers requiring the services of any licensed agent in the U.S. to visit a property.
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By Signing the Agreement to Partner with an Agent

Our agent is dedicated to you and committed to finding a home that meets your needs.
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With a proven track record

We have the knowledge and experience to be the BEST asset in your real estate endeavors.

Signing a Buyers Broker Agreement or BBA

  • This is an agreement to engage with a professional real estate agent to consult, show homes, negotiate contracts, and advocate.
  • It will establish the length of the agreement
  • It shows the agent/broker's services and responsibilities
  • It explains the agreement's exclusivity between Broker and client, what fees are owed for services rendered, and how to terminate the agreement. It mentions additional fees if the buyer signs with more than one agent.
  • It provides a clear explanation of the various ways an agent can be compensated for their services to the Buyer.
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105 More Ways

Agents Who Are Realtors ® Are Worth Every Penny Of Their Compensation.

Here’s a look at all the things – big and small – that a REALTOR ® may do to help clients when buying a home.

Counseling Session Activities

  • Prepare the buyer for executing a buyer representation agreement
  • Explain agency relationships to the buyer and get state required legal consent to represent, if needed
  • Inform the buyer of working relationship based on state law, the REALTORS® Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies

Building a Relationship

  • Learn the buyer’s wants and non-negotiable needs
  • Understand the buyer’s budget and what will be needed financially
  • Help the buyer understand what property their chosen budget will buy
  • Consider having the buyer fill out a homebuyer’s checklist
  • Assist the buyer in examining how much they can afford to spend
  • Provide quality lender resources
  • Partner with the buyer to locate suitable properties for consideration
  • Match the buyer’s needs with available property
  • Constantly re-evaluate buyer’s needs and refocus property showings to fit those needs
  • After ensuring the buyer understands what is done for them, how it is done,and the benefit to them, obtain signatures on the buyer representation agreement
  • Explain how compensation is paid, who pays it, and what the buyer’s options are for paying it

Educating the Buyer

  • Communicate the working relationship based on state law, the REALTORS® Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies
  • Explain Federal and State Fair Housing laws
  • Explain what to look for in applicable property disclosures
  • Reassure the buyer that their personal information will remain confidential
  • Inform the buyer that you will always disclose all known material defects
  • In accordance with state law, provide information on checking the sex-offender registry and crime statistics for the neighborhood
  • Discuss available resources that the buyer can check to learn more about prospective neighborhoods
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REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS®

Preparing the Buyer

  • Explain the timeline for house hunting, mortgage approval, and closing
  • Explain the local market and how it impacts the buyer
  • Show statistics on what percentage of list price sellers in the area are currentlyreceiving
  • Inform the buyer on what home features are popular
  • Identify current average days on market
  • Share the dangers of using the price per square foot to figure home values
  • Explain the concept of absorption rate and how it impacts the buying process
  • Indicate current listing months of market inventory
  • Share estimated potential out-of-pocket costs to complete the transaction
  • Assist the buyer in analyzing the loan estimates
  • Qualify the buyer for financial ability to purchase
  • Help the buyer account for the complete costs of homeownership
  • Prepare lender for listing agent calls
  • Assist in comparing different financing options
  • Help the buyer select for viewing only those homes that fit their needs
  • Proceed in showing homes that fit the buyer’s must-haves
  • Caution the buyer on posting information to social media
  • Review the sample sales contract so the buyer is prepared when it comes time to make an offer

Showing Properties

  • Schedule showings and provide access to all listed properties as soon as they become available in their local MLS broker marketplaces
  • Educate the buyer on the immediacy of new listings appearing in their local MLS broker marketplaces and the lag time for them to appear on some websites
  • Collaborate with the buyer on properties they may have learned about through their sphere contacts
  • Research and assist on all unlisted properties the buyer wishes to see
  • Preview properties prior to showing if needed
  • Network with other agents to source properties not yet in their local MLS broker marketplaces
  • Contact homeowners in focus areas to see if they are considering selling
  • Set up an automated email alert system through their local MLS broker marketplaces that immediately notifies the buyer of properties that fit discussed requirements
  • Arrange a tour of areas, schools, and key points of interest
  • Provide resources containing neighborhood information on municipal services,schools, etc.
  • Inform the buyer of negative aspects like nearby venues or operations that may result in issues that could impact value
  • Collect and share any other vital information on available homes, remembering to follow all fair housing laws at all times
  • Check applicable zoning and building restrictions
  • Help the buyer decipher public property and tax information
  • Collect and share pertinent data on values, taxes, utility costs, etc.
  • Compare each property shown to the buyer’s wants and needs list and remind them of what they were looking for
  • Help the buyer narrow the search until the buyer identifies top choices

Negotiating Offers

  • Assist the buyer in getting the best property at the best price
  • Suggest that the buyer learn more about the neighborhood prior to makingan offer
  • Prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA) in advance of making an offer
  • Prepare the buyer to have the most attractive offer in the current marketplace
  • Explain common contract contingencies and include approved protective clauses in the purchase offer
  • Ensure that the buyer receives and understands all state and federally-required disclosure forms
  • Prioritize contract negotiation goals with the buyer
  • Help create a negotiating strategy
  • Use strategies such as an escalation clause to maintain a competitive offer
  • Prepare the buyer for a multiple offer situation and develop negotiation strategies
  • Write an offer that has a reasonable chance of being accepted
  • Recommend optional contingencies and explain the pros and cons of using them
  • Provide information on purchasing incentives that may be available
  • Discuss financing alternatives
  • Negotiate the buyer’s offers to arrive at the best price and terms
  • Utilize hyperlocal expertise and strong communication skills to assist the buyer in being the successful offer

Advocating for the Buyer and Facilitating the Close (Part 1/2)

  • Advocate for the buyer throughout the entire process
  • Encourage the buyer to fully investigate their options in terms of a home inspector, title company, appraiser, mortgage lender, and other services
  • Present a list of the types of required and optional inspections such as environmental, roofing, and mold
  • Review and discuss home inspection concerns
  • Negotiate repair requests from home inspection
  • Guide the buyer on meeting all contract deadlines
  • Assist in coordinating communications
  • Advise the buyer to review the settlement statement
  • Inform clients that they need to transfer utilities to the new residence
  • Schedule final walkthrough
  • Accompany the buyer on the walkthrough
  • Assist the buyer in questioning the appraisal report if it affects the financing
  • Confirm clear-to-close with the lender
  • Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale
  • Remind the buyer of the location where the closing will be held
  • Confirm the closing date and time, and notify parties if there are changes
  • Gather all required forms and documents for closing
  • Explain flood insurance to the buyer
  • Explain title insurance to the buyer and refer to qualified insurance broker
  • Order any surveys needed

Advocating for the Buyer and Facilitating the Close (Part 2/2)

  • Order the appraisal
  • Order the title search
  • Confirm the status of the loan funding
  • Check addendums and alterations for agreed terms
  • Review the buyer’s closing statement to ensure accuracy
  • Explain wire fraud risks and remind clients to verify all wiring instructions before transferring funds
  • Double-check all tax, homeowners’ association dues, utility, and applicable prorations, if relevant
  • Request final closing figures from the closing agent (often an attorney ortitle company)
  • Receive and carefully review closing figures to ensure accuracy
  • Receive and carefully review title insurance commitment with the buyer
  • Advise the buyer to re-key their locks and to consider a one-time cleaning service or landscaping before moving day
  • Review documents with the closing agent (attorney)
  • Support the buyer in any final closing activities
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Actual services provided will depend on the needs of the buyer and the transaction –not all 105 things will need to be done in every transaction.

Featured content from the Center for REALTOR® Development’s Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) Designation Course. Visit crd.realtor to learn more.

Let's Chat.

I'm sure you have questions and thoughts about the real estate process. I'd love to talk with you about what you've read here and help you on the path to buying your new home.

I look forward to working with you.
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Thank you!

In everything we do, we are driven to help others, because behind every transaction there is a vision, a goal, a dream waiting to come to life. In doing so, we bring our expertise, our instincts from years of experience, and our complete dedication to you.

This is only the beginning of an exciting journey to a bright and shining new future. And it's only the beginning of our commitment to servicing your every real estate need. Thank you for the opportunity to help you find your perfect home!
We'll be right there with you, every step of the way.