BUYING YOUR PROPERTY IN FLORIDA
ON THE ROAD TO SOLD!
941-800-2800 www.LuxuryRealEstateGroup.com
MISSION STATEMENT
It is the mission of RE/MAX Platinum Realty and its associates to provide the highest quality, innovative, and exceptional real estate service available anywhere in the Sarasota/Siesta area. Our clients’ needs always come first. We will strive to always provide value far in excess of our clients’ expectations. Our goal is mutual respect and long term relationships that are beneficial to all parties. Our operation is a great place to work and do business. We are positive, helpful, and enthusiastic at all times – always focusing on solutions, not challenges. We take care of business first and foremost, but have fun and enjoy ourselves in the process. We run a clean, organized, and efficient operation. We always adhere to the highest standards of integrity and ethical business practices. We constantly strive to create, develop, as well as implement new ideas and strategies that will benefit our clients. We seek continuing education in all aspects of our business to increase the level of service we offer our clients.
Core Values • Honesty & Integrity at all times and in all situations. • Continually improve our services to exceed our clients’ expectations. • Create and nurture a fun, exciting, creative, and productive work environment. Tirelessly pursue personal and team growth while reaching well-formulated goals.
T
hank you for contacting RE/MAX Platinum Realty regarding the purchase of your property. We have created this booklet to provide you with a glimpse into how we approach our business and the purchase of your new home. We strive to provide the ultimate real estate service to our clients. As you will see, we offer Guaranteed Real Estate Services which shows our commitment to our clients. We work diligently to ensure that you are treated the way you want to be treated. We look forward to working with you. Please let us know if you have any questions at any time during the process of your real estate transaction. Sincerely,
Bryan Guentner, CRS, CIPS, CLHMS, ePRO
Cheri Guentner, ABR, GRI
Bryan@Guentner.net
Cheri@Guentner.net
Broker, Owner
Realtor速,Owner
ABOUT RE/MAX
Put the Power of RE/MAX Behind You! Together, with RE/MAX International we will put the power of our brand to work to find your dream home. With nearly 100,000 agents in nearly 100 countries, RE/MAX has a greater worldwide presence than any of our competitors. Our associates average more real estate sales experience than other agents, and lead the industry in professional designations which shows a dedication to their craft. Whether you are buying a home in our area or across the world, RE/MAX Platinum Realty’s agents can help you with your real estate goals. If you are relocating, we can work side by side with your real estate agent to help your move go smoothly. With this strong presence in our market, we have built a reputation of trust and professionalism with our fellow real estate agents. Agents from other companies can feel comfortable knowing that when we submit an offer on their listing, we will handle the transaction with professionalism and zest. We take care of our clients, and will do what we need to do to ensure the transaction runs as smoothly as possible.
www.LuxuryRealEstateGroup.com
WHY CHOOSE RE/MAX PLATINUM RE/MAX Platinum Realty is a boutique real estate firm with the power of an International real estate brand. We are comprised of premier real estate professionals working together to serve your real estate needs. Our goal is to provide our local and international clients with exceptional, personalized service while remaining flexible and innovative so we can thrive in any economic cycle. Our firm provides the tools needed to achieve prominence in the marketplace through education, technology, and training.
What Makes Us Different? Here are just a few ways working with us can benefit your experience:
Honesty We refuse to tell you what you want to hear. We will tell you the absolute TRUTH EVERY TIME. Purchasing a property is a large investment and one to take seriously. We will offer our expertise and view your purchase not only as a place to live, but as an investment in your future. At RE/MAX Platinum Realty, we are not afraid to use the direct but soft approach. Rest assured you will always be completely and accurately informed on your purchase, NO MATTER WHAT!
Leading Edge Technology We don’t just stop at traditional marketing, we take it to a whole new level. We have access to the latest technology so you are notified immediately when a home comes on the market that fits your specific parameters. Timing often makes the difference in whether or not you get the home. We make sure that our clients stay up to date on the market.
Specialized Knowledge We are engaged 24/7 and we know the real estate market! We work and study market trends daily to keep up on what is happening now and what may happen in the future. Certified with over 10 different designations and over 2,500 hours of training and seminars, our agents learn new ways to find the perfect home for you! We have the knowledge to help keep you informed on the market and make sure you make the right choice when buying your home!
Unique Team System With a multitude of tasks involved in helping buyers and sellers, we make sure nothing is forgotten and nothing is left undone. From sales, administration and marketing to service repair, telemarketing, and technology, we have perfected a unique system that allows us to maintain a top level of client communication and performance that is unmatched by other area Realtor®.
We Own the Company When you choose to work with Bryan and Cheri Guentner’s Team you will experience something unique and beneficial to YOU! As opposed to many other area Realtors®, we have the final say as to how we take on your real estate goals. When and how things get done is up to us so we can do what is best for each and every client. We realize that each client is unique with different motivations to buy or sell real estate. At RE/MAX Platinum Realty we customize a complete package for you with no limitations on funds for marketing and all of the available technology at our disposal to assist you in your search for your property.
SERVICES WE PROVIDE FOR YOU As your agent, RE/MAX Platinum Realty will provide you with:
Financing Assistance
If you would like, we can assist you in finding the best financing program for your specific situation with the lowest interest rate and least expensive closing costs. Your lender will generate a pre-qualification certificate to give you the best competitive advantage in the purchase negotiations.
Latest Listings
We will provide you with regular updates of all the new properties matching your home buying criteria. This allows you to drive by any property you wish to view. When you are ready, we will arrange a private showing on the homes you would like to see in person. We will also include off market homes including expired, for sale by owner, and cancelled listings. Your dream home could simply be temporarily off the market, so we don’t want to miss it.
Purchasing Strategies
Once you find a property you like, we will provide you with strategies in regards to price, financing terms, interest rates, cost to close, possession date, inspection details, and more.
Preparation of Paperwork
Assist you in preparing the offer with terms, provisions, special stipulations, etc., to best help you.
Meet with Sellers
We will present the offer on your behalf in person and negotiate in your favor to assist you in securing the property at the best possible price and terms.
Affiliates and Vendors
Provide references to the most qualified affiliates and vendors such as title and escrow companies, home inspection teams, lenders, appraisals, etc.
Availability
We will be available to you to answer any questions you may have throughout the entire buying process.
Guarantee
You are never under any obligation to buy a property. If you are not satisfied with your new home within six months of the closing date, WE WILL SELL IT FOR FREE*.
VIP BUYER GUARANTEE If You Are Not Happy With Your New Home, We Will Sell it for FREE! * Team Guentner offers this unique
Buyer Satisfaction Guarantee
so as the home buyer, YOU are in control.
We want you to know that we have a vested interest in helping you get the best possible home - one you will love and enjoy for years to come. Are you worrying and second guessing the homes value, the environment, inner workings, or the purchasing process? If you are not satisfied with your new home within two years of the closing date, WE WILL SELL IT FOR FREE*. We will put this guarantee in writing to help you understand that we are committed to our clients. *Certain restrictions and terms apply including a one percent nominal listing fee.
VIP LOYALTY AGREEMENT RE/MAX Platinum Realty agents are among the best in the business! CHECK OUT OUR EXCLUSIVE VIP LOYALTY AGREEMENT! As Your Buyers Agent, we will provide you with the following services: • Assist you in securing the best financing with the lowest interest rate and least expensive closing costs. • Have a pre-qualifying certificate generated to give you the best competitive advantage in purchase negotiations. • Provide you with regular updates from our Home Hunter Service of all the new properties that match your criteria. This will allow you to drive by and determine which properties you want to see. • Arrange a private showing of any property you want to see. When you find a property you like, we’ll discuss the best strategy with you regarding offer price, financing terms, interest rate, cost to close, possession date, inspection details and anything else you want to know. • Help you prepare the offer weighted in your best interest. • Present the offer on your behalf and negotiate in your favor to help you secure the property at the best possible price and terms. • Recommend competent affiliates to assist you in the process of purchasing your home including title and escrow expertise, home inspection, appraisal, warranties and home owner hazard insurance. • Be available for you to answer any questions you might have. • Provide service after our sale! We are always here to help with referrals, or anything you need. BONUS #1 - You receive a one-year Home Warranty Policy ($300 value). We will negotiate the warranty on your behalf at no cost to you. BONUS #2 - You will receive our written Buyer Satisfaction Guarantee whereby we agree in writing to sell it for free if you are not satisfied with your home purchase in six months*. BONUS #3 - You get our Cancellation Guarantee and can cancel this agreement at anytime if we do not live up to our promises. AND REMEMBER, YOU ARE NEVER UNDER ANY OBLIGATION TO PURCHASE ANY PROPERTY!
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU? Your Eight VIP Buyer Benefits 1. YOU Get Pre-Qualified FREE of Charge for a Home Loan and get access to special financing.
2. YOU receive the best new listings that match YOUR criteria BEFORE the average buyer knows about them! 3. YOU are backed by our Specialized Market Knowledge. 4. YOU have an entire TEAM of Pros and Leading Edge Technology at your disposal, at no extra cost! 5. YOU receive a Fidelity National Home Warranty ($300.00) 6. YOU get a written Cancellation Guarantee, signed by us, that allows you to cancel if we do not live up to the promises we make! 7. YOU get a written Satisfaction Guarantee, that ensures you are satisfied with your purchase. 8. YOU get priority access to competent affiliates that can assist you with your total home purchase needs and circumstantial details.
You get more home for your money, you do not waste time on homes above or below your price range and beat out buyers not pre-approved. You can beat other buyers to all the HOT NEW LISTINGS! You get the house you want at the lowest possible price and on the best terms and conditions. Our State-Of-The-Art Technology and unique TEAM Sales System means you save time and money and your transactions are hassle-free. You have the security of knowing your home is protected! YOU are in control, not the real estate agent. You get our signed, written commitment - we take all the risk, not you! If within six months you are not 100% satisfied with your new home, Team Guentner will sell it for free!* We have special relationships with Real Estate Attorneys, Home Inspectors, Certified Engineers and others that can handle those special needs.
CLIENT REVIEWS Work with a 5-star rated real estate team!
“Found their stellar reputation and network has the most competitive advantages to offer home buyers and most likely sellers. If and when you look for the highest quality real estate service, you may look to Bryan and Cheri Guentner. Due to several personal situations, beyond the control of Bryan and Cheri, we have yet to find that perfect home. However, it is clear you can depend on them to make the sale or purchase of a home as effortless and seamless as possible.” “I have known Bryan and Cheri Guentner for 23 years. Initially, I was also a Realtor and worked on many transactions with them in that capacity. After graduating from law school in 1998 I began to work with them in a different capacity - representing buyers or sellers that they had referred to me. Bryan and Cheri are always at the forefront of education and technology. I have witnessed their superior negotiation skills at the closing table many times and have been present as their buyers and sellers compliment and thank them for a job well done.” “Bryan and Cheri have the knowledge, tools, experience, skills, and personalities necessary to succeed in this ever-changing real estate market.” “Wonderful Company...great family values...wonderful and helpful staff. We would highly recommend their company...very honest .... beautiful office. Paige Hartman was a wonderful, helpful agent.....sweet and caring. Paige truly enjoys working with Bryan & Cheri.” “I have worked with Bryan and Cheri on multiple deals... buy, sell and consulting. I cannot say enough good things about them and their RE/MAX offices - but the best thing I can say is INTEGRITY, RESPECT and ACTION ORIENTED RESULTS. They are 5 star ... ALL THE WAY!!!” “Bryan and Cheri have been very helpful in assisting our family in identifying the extremely specific type of home we are interested in purchasing. This save us dozens, if not hundreds, of homes we would have to review if not for their pre-screening. “Worked for Bryan for 3.5 years, so I’m sharing my experience from that perspective. Bryan and Cheri know the area inside and out. They operate ethically and with their clients’ best interest at heart. I would say that they are highly skilled negotiators. On their behalf, I processed paperwork for transactions on small first-time buyer homes all the way up to multi-million estates. They are highly respected individuals in the community and leaders within the Real Estate community. Years after I moved on to other ventures, we remain friends. In 2012, when my parents decided to investigate moving from up north to Sarasota, I immediately connected them with Bryan and Cheri. “Worked with Cheri and Bryan to close a short sale. They were super on every aspect of providing information to determine a fair price in the current market environment and helped in every aspect of putting the deal together. Tremendous communication and follow through. I will continue to work with them on any buy or sell in the future. The bottom line is their service and communication is outstanding.”
STEPS TO BUYING YOUR FLORIDA HOME PREPARATION Before you start searching for your new home, it is a good idea to make some preparations. Build Your Financial File Create a green file that contains all your important financial documents. You will need it to secure financing for your home. The typical green file should contain: • Financial statements • Bank accounts • Investments • Credit card statements • Auto loan information • Recent pay stubs • Tax returns for two years Check Your Credit Rating Your credit score will have an enormous impact on what type of home you can buy and at what price. Anything above 650 is considered good. A premium credit rating may mean a lower interest rate on your mortgage. Check your credit rating with a credit reporting agency such as: Equifax, Experian, or Trans Union. Be Careful With Your Finances Now is not a good time to make sudden career changes or large purchases. You want to approach home buying from a position of financial stability.
CHOOSING A REAL ESTATE AGENT Buying a home requires making many important financial decisions, understanding complex issues and completing a lot of paperwork. It helps to have an expert in your corner when undertaking such a large purchase. Our real estate team can guide you through the process, and they also can get you access to exclusive home listings before they hit the general market. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a real estate agent: • Look for a FULL-TIME agent who has experience completing transactions similar to yours. • Interview a few agents: Are they familiar with the area interests you? • Ask how much time the agent will have for you, and if they have a licensed assistant. • Ask about their credentials and education: A good agent will continually strive to improve and gain knowledge of the latest real estate trends. • Does the agent return your calls promptly? Time is money when attempting to buy a home. • Ask for a list of homes they have sold or a list of references. • Choose an agent who listens attentively to your needs and concerns. • Pick an agent with whom you feel comfortable.
STEPS TO BUYING YOUR FLORIDA HOME TIME TO GO SHOPPING
Once you have completed your preparations, it is time to find the home of your dreams! Take a Drive RE/MAX Platinum Realty will help you get to know the neighborhoods that interest you. We will drive around with you and help you get a feel for what it would be like to live in the area as well as get a sense of the homes available in those neighborhoods. Tip: It is always a good idea for you to drive neighborhoods at varying times of the day to see what it is like during the morning commute, on the weekends, or at night. View Online We realize that most buyers begin their search online. We want you to know that RE/MAX Platinum Realty has access to EVERY listing in the Multiple Listing Service. Whether you see a home online, on the street through a for sale sign, in the newspaper, open house, new construction community, or word of mouth, we can represent your interests. It is important to have an agent who represents YOU during negotiations. We will provide you access to your very own ‘portal’ of homes for you to view and search. We want you to get the most accurate and up to date information as possible so you do not lose your dream home to another buyer! Short Sales and Bank Owned Properties If you are considering placing an offer on a distressed property, we can help you navigate this unique situation. We know what questions to ask the listing agent and what to expect during our ‘waiting period’ for the bank to respond to our offer. There are many advantages to buying a short sale property including an often ‘discounted’ price. However, the process can be lengthy and frustrating. Our team can discuss with you what to expect when buying a short sale or bank owned property in detail. Narrow your Search Select a few homes that interest you the most and we will make appointments to visit them. By now we will understand your wants and needs and have the knowledge about the potential long term re-sale value as well as comparable values of the homes you are considering to purchase. Time to Buy Once you have decided to make an offer on a home or condominium, our team can help you prepare an offer to present to the seller and negotiate the best price for you.
STEPS TO BUYING YOUR FLORIDA HOME ESCROW, INSPECTIONS & APPRAISAL Escrow
Escrow is the process that starts when your purchase offer is accepted by the seller. It ends when you become the new registered owner of the property.
Escrow Holder and Title Company
Typically, you as the buyer can choose the title company or rely on our relationships to help you decide. The title company will research the complete recorded history of the property to insure that title is free and clear of any encumbrances by the date of closing and that all new encumbrances are properly added to the title. Some properties are subject to restrictions which limit various activities such as building to parking restrictions. Also, there may be recorded easements and encroachments, which may grant others limited use of your property.
How to Hold Title
You may wish to consult with an attorney or tax advisor regarding the best way to hold title. Different methods of holding title have different legal, estate, and tax implications especially when selling or upon death of the title holder.
Inspections
Once your offer is accepted by the seller, your 10-day inspection period will typically begin. You will need to have a professional inspector evaluate the home’s major systems. We have a long list of well qualified inspectors that we recommend and use continuously. The inspector will go through the report with us carefully to discuss the findings. We then can discuss whether you want to have the seller repair any items or you can choose to cancel the contract.
Appraisal and Lending
We will keep in close communication with your lender who will let us know when additional documents are needed. The lender will often send an appraiser out to the proper ty and you may pay a fee for this service. Appraisers are specialists in determining the value of proper ties based on a combination of square foot measurements, building costs, and recent sales of comparable proper ties. The hard part is behind you, but there are a few more steps before you can move into your new home.
Final Walk-Through
A few days before your closing, we will conduct a final walk-through to ensure everything is in order.
Utilities and Services
You will have to change any existing utilities and services of the property over to your name.
Closing Escrow
72 hours prior to the day of closing, the Title Agent will work closely with your lender to provide you with your CD (Closing Disclosure), this statement breaks down all of the financial costs involved in the purchase of your new home. Initially your lender will go over this with you to ensure its accuracy. A best practice is for the buyer to give permission to the title company and their lender to share this information with their Realtor®, so they can have an independent person help them review the CD.
After Closing
After all documents have been signed by the buyer and seller, the Title Agent will record the title documents at the Assessor’s office and turn over the keys to you to your new home.
Congratulations!
MOVING CHECKLIST Here are a few things to consider when planning your move:
Two Months Before • De Clutter. Moving is always a great time to get rid of accumulated items that you can throw away or donate to a local charity. • Research. Start getting estimates from moving companies. • Important Records. Arrange for any important records to be transferred such as school or medical records. • Order Supplies. It’s time to gather boxes and moving supplies. Get bubble wrap, markers, tape, etc. • Take Measurements. Check to make sure your furniture is going to fit in your new home. Think about how you are going to move special pieces into certain rooms.
One Month Before • Select the mover and confirm arrangements. • Begin Packing. Start packing the items you do not use day to day. • Label Boxes. A great idea is to number or label each box with its room or contents to help keep track of where things go in the new home. • Separate Valuables. Plan to personally take any valuables such as jewelry or important pieces so they do not get overlooked in the move. • Order Change of Address. Go online to usps.gov and order your change of address now so your mail arrives quickly after your closing. • Notify Businesses. Begin to notify your services such as your banks, brokerage firms, payroll department, accountant, credit cards, and utility companies. • Pet Arrangements. Arrange for pets to be moved and preferably out of the house during moving day. • Schedule Goodbye Lunches or Parties. If you are moving out of town, now might be the time to begin with your goodbyes to friends and neighbors before things get too hectic with the move.
Two Weeks Before • Clean out your safe deposit box. • Confirm Moving Arrangements.
One Week Before • Refill prescriptions. • Pack suitcases with enough clothes to wear for a few days. • Defrost your refrigerator. If it is going with you, defrost it at least 24 hours before the move.
• Source and Full Checklist can Be Found Online at: www.RealSimple.com
We look forward to working with you on the purchase of your home!
Bryan and Cheri GUENTNER
Bryan Guentner, CRS, CIPS, CLHMS, ePRO Owner
941.929.9090 Bryan@Guentner.net Cheri Guentner, ABR, GRI Owner
941.302.9091 Cheri@Guentner.net
941.800.8200 www.LuxuryRealEstateGroup.com
941-800-2800
www.LuxuryRealEstateGroup.com 4 Office Locations to Serve You: 1312 Main St | Sarasota, Florida 34236 412 S Tamiami Trail | Osprey, Florida 34229 8215 Natures Way #109 | Lakewood Ranch, Florida 34202 307 W. Venice Ave. | Venice, Florida 34285