Melissa Zimmerman Buyer Presentation

The Home Buyer Guide

The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Difference

WE ARE PROUD TO LEAD THE WAY IN MARKETING AND TECHNOLOGY, however these innovations are not what define us. Our unparalleled value is in each one of our sales associates and their industry knowledge, professional experience and commitment to building a relationship with you that far outlasts the closing table. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is the FOREVER BrandSM. Our team members are local experts, community activists, liaisons, advisors and oftentimes a friendly ear to listen. We earn trust by partnering with you to achieve your goals and look forward to the opportunity to help you thrive in the communities we serve or wherever life takes you.

Having moved at least ten times with the airlines I worked for, I was ready to settle down in one place. My husband and I had just spent two long, cold years in Minneapolis, MN, and I knew I needed a more inviting climate. We made a list of several cities that met our requirements, and Charlotte, NC topped the list. The draw to Charlotte for me was more than just great climate, it was also a great city with so much to offer!

After moving to the University area, we discovered all the wonderful things that Charlotte had to offer. The amazing Greenway system for hiking and biking, the museums, civic arenas and sports for every type of fan, and amazing scenic lake views! Over the past twelve years, I have seen Charlotte blossom into a bigger city with more infrastructure to support all the local growth, all while maintaining the small town feel that drew me here. The people are the best in the country, kind and welcoming, and that is why I am proud to call Charlotte my home.

Because I have moved so many times, I know how hard it can be - finding just the right location to meet all your family’s needs. I look forward to helping you find the perfect home for your family.

2022 & 2023 Best Real Estate Agent in North Carolina

Why I being a REALTOR®

In my role as a REALTOR®, I've had the incredible privilege of witnessing some truly heartwarming journeys. Take Janelle and Cody, for example. A young couple filled with excitement, they relocated to Charlotte to draw closer to their family. With a precious baby girl already in their arms and another on the way, they eagerly prepared their home for the newest addition. I've had the joy of watching them blossom into a family of four, assisting them in selling and buying homes as their needs evolved.

Then there's the touching story of Maureen and John. Their move was driven by a desire to be near their children, a decision that remained unshaken despite John's declining health during the construction of their new home. I was fortunate to be a part of Maureen and John's journey, standing by their side through John's final days. What began as a professional relationship grew into something deeper; they became an extension of my own family.

And then there's Sharon, whose tale reflects the bittersweet reality of life's twists. He embarked on a journey from California to Charlotte with dreams of permanent relocation. After years of commuting, the reality sank in that this dream might not materialize. From a thousand miles away, he entrusted me with the sale of his home, relying on our relationship and my commitment to make the process seamless.

These stories underscore why I cherish my role as a REALTOR®. Beyond transactions, it's about forging connections that endure. It's about being there as families grow, supporting them during the most challenging times, and ensuring that dreams find a way to become reality. These clients, these stories, they are the heartbeat of why I love what I do.

Featured Sales Associate on

The American Dream is a National TV Show which started in California and is now streaming and airing in nearly every major US city.

The American Dream selects the top Power PlayersTM to be the voice of their city; showcasing the culture, lifestyle and best listings. These Power Players™ represent the top 1% of Real Estate and Mortgage Professionals in the country and are the most recognized leaders of their real estate market.

SCAN TO WATCH MY EPISODE

Over 430 Exceptional Client Experiences Throughout Greater

Charlotte

Client Testimonials

“Melissa willingly took us on as clients who had already gotten into a new build process and were in way over our heads. Melissa negotiated her way into our contract and has been our advocate and confidant! Melissa knows what to look for in a house to ensure the best outcome for her clients and has no problem voicing concerns on our behalf if needed. If/when we ever need a REALTOR® in the area again, Melissa will be my first call and if anyone ever asks for a referral, we will not hesitate to sing her praises.”

— STACEY S.

“My wife and I just purchased our dream home in what is likely the most competitive market to date in Charlotte. Melissa truly looked after us like family. Her industry knowledge and negotiation skills ensured we received a fair deal on our home and saved us a substantial amount of money. If it weren’t for her attention to detail and experience, we likely wouldn’t have closed on our home. Melissa adds a human touch to what can be a stressful process, providing a calm approach each step of the way.”

— SHAWN F.

“You will never find a better REALTOR®! She treats her clients like they are family. Her upbeat mood and attention to every detail cannot be beat. She assisted with ideas for staging, even supplying some items necessary to upgrade for showings. She also assisted with the placement of items and, of course, did an excellent job on the virtual staging to draw people to the open house. She has moved so many times herself that she truly understands the process and how stressful it can be. I cannot tell you the number of times she was there to bolster my flagging energy and mental state, also timed just when needed. I cannot give her enough kudos for what she did to assist me with my sale. You will not find a better REALTOR®!”

— BARBARA W.

Client Testimonials

“Words are hard to describe how amazing Melissa Zimmerman was during our home selling period. As part of a relocation move, I was able to pick our agent and from the beginning Melissa showed highly attuned communication skills. She proactively made recommendations on window glass repairs and tips for presenting our home splendidly. She continued to communicate frequently throughout the home selling process. Our property had some interesting features and Melissa was an informative pipeline and always in front of each negotiation. Melissa is professional, knowledgeable, and amazing at what she does. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 5 STAR SUPERSTAR.”

— STEPHEN M.

“We truly cannot recommend Melissa enough. She is beyond knowledgeable about the Greater Charlotte community and the neighborhoods that encompass the area. Most importantly, Melissa is honest and realistic about the home buying process, condition of a home, pricing of homes, etc. Melissa went above and beyond with our home purchase. She made us feel at ease during a time that can typically be stressful. I make no hesitation when recommending Melissa Zimmerman.”

“Words cannot describe how thankful we are to have found Melissa. She is nothing short of excellence! Melissa’s extraordinary work ethic, extensive knowledge of the real estate market, and professionalism made our first home purchase a breeze! Our experience through each phase of the sales process was superior. Melissa made us feel as though we were her top priority. Never once did we feel like we were just another transaction. Melissa will be the first and ONLY one we call when we are ready for our next move.”

— LESLIE D.

— STEPHANIE H.

The Buyer Experience

The buyer experience begins and ends with you. I will serve as your professional consultant to guide you through this transition, and any future real estate needs. I am dedicated to streamlining your experience so you can focus on the demands of daily life.

Initial Consultation Financing

Finding the Right Home Making an Offer

Beyond Closing

Contract Period Closing

Negotiations

Determine criteria, needs and urgency.

Discuss financing options and the process for finding the right property.

Initial Consultation

Financing

Introduction to our Home Mortgage Consultant and completion of the pre-approval process.

Home Loan Document Checklist

Use this helpful checklist to gather documents for your home loan.

Income Information

□ 30 days most recent pay stubs with year-to-date information for all jobs and for each borrower

□ Federal tax returns for the 2 most recent years (1040s)

□ W-2 or 1099 forms for the 2 most recent years

□ Retirement and/or social security income award letter

□ Written explanation if employed less than 2 years or gap in employment in the last 2 years

Credit Information

□ Most recent 2 months asset statement listed on the application — all pages to each statement even if blank (Example: checking account, savings account, CDs, money market accounts, IRA, 401k, etc.)

□ If applicable: credit explanation letter for any late payments, collections, judgements or other derogatory credit items

□ Documentation for any large deposits outside payroll or gift fund deposits shown on asset statements

□ If applicable: previous payments for alternative credit sources

Special Information, if applicable

□ Last 3 years complete Federal tax returns (both personal & business returns)

□ Year-to-date profit and loss statement

□ List of all business debts

Other Information

□ Real Estate Agent Information (if applicable)

Agent name:

Contact Number:

□ Homeowners Insurance Information

Agent name:

Contact Number:

□ Additional:

□ Additional:

Finding the Right Home

Review various neighborhoods and areas to identify those that match your criteria.

Begin home showings to find your perfect home.

Making an Offer

Review of disclosures and property information to make an informed decision.

Review comparable sales and market conditions to determine offer price.

Be prepared with your pre-approval letter, due diligence fee, and earnest money deposit.

Negotiations

Offer is delivered to the listing agent for presentation to the seller. Seller responds with acceptance, rejection or a counter-offer.

Offer becomes a binding contract once all parties have signed and communicated.

Contract Period

• Monies referenced in offer are delivered

• Property appraisal is conducted as part of the loan approval process

• Schedule closing attorney

• Select title insurance policy and secure homeowners insurance

• Schedule inspections as requested on Professional Services Disclosure and Election form

• Arrange for movers and utility transfers

• Review Closing Disclosure and arrange for monies to be delivered for settlement

• Conduct your final walk-through of property

• Attend settlement

Closing attorney records deed.

Receive keys to your new home!

Beyond Closing

At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Carolinas Companies we are committed to building lasting relationships based on trust and care. I will continue to be a resource for you by providing annual real estate reviews and recommendations for service providers. I also look forward to assisting your friends and family.

Estimated Closing Costs

Appraisal: $

Attorney Fees: $

Brokerage Fees: $

Cost Associated with Loan: $ Mortgage consultant will provide estimate

Escrow Deposit: $ Reserve for HOA dues, taxes, PMI, etc.

Homeowner’s Insurance: $

Home Warranty: $

Property Inspections: $

Home, Radon, Septic, Well, Termite

Recording Fees: $

Survey: $

Title Insurance: $

Other: $

TOTAL CLOSING COSTS: $

This should be used as a checklist for informational purposes only and costs are not to be construed as actual closing figures. A final, detailed breakdown will be made available before closing.

Smooth Transition to a New Home

4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

• Contact and contract with a reputable moving company.

• Have school records transferred.

• Arrange to transfer or transport medical, dental, and other important records.

• Transfer homeowner’s and auto insurance to be sure of continuous coverage.

• Hold a garage sale, donate unneeded items, and place excess items in storage.

• Keep track of moving related expenses (some may be deductible).

3 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

• Complete change of address with the post office, subscriptions, credit card companies, and important contacts.

2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

• Arrange for final utility readings at the former residence the day after moving out, and have utilities and phone turned on at the new home the day before moving in.

• Close, update or transfer bank accounts.

• Arrange for transfer of vehicle registration and drivers’ licenses.

• Have an extra supply of prescription medications for the next four weeks.

• Schedule a final walkthrough of the property; make sure everything is in order.

MOVING WEEK

• Keep valuable financial records and personal papers with you; do not pack them with the rest of the household goods.

• On closing day, the home purchase documents are recorded and the home is now yours.

• Move in.

AFTER MOVING IN

• Consider plans for landscaping design, installation, and maintenance.

• Review home security requirements and systems.

• New home furnishings, appliances, and interior decorating will make the house a home.

Our Complete Suite of Home Services

Berkshire Hathaway wants to be in businesses that are enduring. Real estate brokerages will be around 100 years from now and HomeServices of America will be around 100 years from now. We love that HomeServices is part of Berkshire Hathaway and we would love to see it grow a lot.

— Warren Buffett Chairman and CEO Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.

Homeowners Insurance

WHO WE ARE

We

WHY WE ARE HERE

We

Title

At real estate closings, the lender, if any, requires a title insurance policy (Loan Policy) to ensure that the lender’s interest in the property is protected. To protect your investment and ownership in the property, you also need a title insurance policy (Owner’s Policy). There are no annual payments to keep the policy in force. A one-time fee at the real estate closing protects you against a wide variety of risks to the title of your property.

As part of the seamless transaction for our clients, we are pleased to offer title insurance through our wholly-owned title insurance company, Attorneys Title. Attorneys Title has

provided title insurance to North Carolina homebuyers for over 35 years. As an agent of First American Title, Commonwealth Land Title and Chicago Title insurance companies, our experienced staff and legal team are prepared to handle all of your title insurance needs. We have access to over 2 million prior policies and provide a reissue rate when applicable, to help ensure you are getting the best price for your title insurance. To take advantage of our streamlined process, simply indicate to the attorney of your choice that you designate Attorneys Title as your title insurance provider.

Strength, Trust & Integrity

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. is a worldwide holding company based in Omaha, NE. Its Chairman and CEO, Warren Buffett is ranked one of the world’s most influential people according to Time magazine.

“When people are making the decision of the magnitude of buying a house, it’s the biggest decision a great many families will ever make. They want to know who they’re working with and we think that the Berkshire Hathaway name will be reassuring to many of those people,” says Buffett.

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Carolinas Companies benefits from a globally respected reputation and a sound financial foundation. Our roots are local, and our reach is global.

As proud members of this remarkable network, we thrive on helping buyers and sellers find their perfect home whether around the corner, across the country, or anywhere in the world.

Real Estate Company and Home Services Provider based on Transactions #3

World’s Most Admired Companies #4

Our Promise

BEYOND OUR NAME THERE ARE CERTAIN QUALITIES THAT DEFINE US – TRAITS, PRACTICES, VALUES.

EXCEED expectations for exemplary service and professionalism in everything we do. BUILD lasting relationships based on trust and care with our clients and the communities we serve.

PARTNER

with our associates to create an environment that fosters success and meaningful careers.

REDEFINE the home buying, selling, and owning process by integrating each element into a seamless real estate experience.

Greater

UNSURPASSED SERVICE

in every major market in North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina

UNSURPASSED SERVICE in every major market in North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina