Melissa Zimmerman | Buyer Experience

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.

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.”

— LESLIE D.

“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.”

— 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.

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

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

Title

Other:

TOTAL CLOSING COSTS:

Home Buying Checklist

GETTING STARTED

Contact a real estate agent to let them know you are thinking of buying.

Get referred to lenders who will pre-qualify you for a mortgage.

How much monthly can we afford?

What documents do we need to have for a mortgage?

What are the neighborhoods or areas you like? Taxes and HOA dues will help get accurate mortgage monthly pricing.

Have your REALTOR® set up a home search meeting your needs.

Let your REALTOR® know your availability to see homes. That way they can pre-book appointments when homes come on the market.

Start looking at cities and neighborhoods on your time off to see if they are of interest.

Start going to view homes with your REALTOR® and narrow down until you find your dream home.

IMPORTANT TIPS TO REMEMBER

Know that you will never find a home that meets 100% of your needs. If you find one that meets 85% or more, it is a good option to consider.

If the area you love is too expensive for single family homes, consider if a townhome or condo would also suit your needs.

Offers have to be competitive to win. The less “things” in the offer you ask for, the better your chance to get your offer accepted.

Never go to new build homes without your agent. Some new build communities will not allow an agent to represent you unless they are with you on the first visit.

Define your must haves. What can you never live without?

Do you need a garage for your car’s?

Do you have to have a designated office in the home?

Is a neighborhood that has amenities a must have?

Talk to your REALTOR® about how these “must haves” rank in order of importance.

Be prepared for your home inspection once under contract. Home inspections are typically 35 pages in length. Things will be written up that are suggestions only. They may not have been required at time of build. Take into account that sellers are not required to bring homes up to current day codes unless fully reconstructed.

Do not open credit cards, make large purchases, lease a car or change jobs while you are in the process of buying a home. They all effect your credit.

ONCE YOU GET UNDER CONTRACT

Have your REALTOR® help in suggesting a closing attorney.

Set up a home inspection. Do you want home, termite, radon, water or other inspections?

Do you want a survey? That will tell you if you have any encroachments or utility easements on the property.

Make sure to get your lender all documents in a timely manor.

Set up utilities on your new home to take effect the day of closing.

Arrange for your mailing address change to new homes address.

If you are needing contractors, painters, flooring specialist for your new home, talk with your REALTOR® for a list of trusted professionals.

Again, do not open any credit cards, make large purchases, lease a car or change jobs. These all can effect your credit.

Breath deep. On closing day bring with you to the attorneys office:

Your photo ID

Your bank information in case they need to refund you money

Marriage, death, citizenship, Power of Attorney or any other document needed to prove identity or ability to purchase a home.

ENSURING SUFFICIENT FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE

Estimate how long it will take for your business to acquire paying customers.

Itemize your living expenses for the first year, at least, and assess where these will come from.

Itemize your living expenses for the first year, at least, and assess where these will come from.

From this, determine how many months of savings or investment you need to breakeven.

If outside investment is required beyond the founders’ savings, complete a business plan.

PLANNING FOR YOUR HOME-BASED BUSINESS’ BUSINESS PLAN

Complete a Company Overview that includes basic information and a summary of the management team.

Write a Business Description section describing your services and what problems they solve.

Prepare a Market Analysis section that describes the total market and your target market, specific segment needs, competitive offerings available, and any trends that will affect the analysis.

Describe an Operating Plan for the business, such as operating hours, number of employees, key vendors, or seasonal adjustments your business might need to adjust to.

Create a Marketing and Sales Plan that includes a “Go To Market” or launch plan, pricing, how your business will generate leads, and close new business.

Build a Financial Plan that shows a break-even analysis, projected profit and loss, and projected cash flows.

Write an Executive Summary which gives a general overview of the above completed sections.

SETTING UP TO OPERATE

Find a feasible space for your home office that can provide you with the ideal space needed to conduct business.

Set up your home office with a comfy chair, desk, shelves, filing cabinets, and etc.

Identify any staffing needs.

Recruit, interview, hire, and train employees (if applicable).

If hiring employees, get an employer ID from the IRS.

Identify and set up any needed technology:

Laptop for business operations

Printer

Business software and applications

POS

Business email account

Phones

CRM

Billing

Payment systems

Ensure your technology systems are secure with your information and customer information.

Install a security system.

Depending on the business type, identify and partner with the right suppliers/vendors.

MARKETING & LAUNCHING YOUR HOME-BASED BUSINESS

Develop and refine a brand for your company and its products or services.

Create and fine tune an Elevator Pitch through conversations.

Community outreach and networking: as a home-based business, you will not have the normal foot traffic. Therefore, other marketing strategies are needed to offset the lack of a storefront. Attend various networking events to build relationships with community connectors.

Begin distributing or displaying your marketing materials:

Web-based promotions

Social media

Direct mail

Business cards

Trade shows

Brochures

Establish an email marketing account and initiate digital marketing through blogs, emails, or SEO strategies to drive traffic to your website.

Let the local or regional press know you are opening.

Utilize Guerrilla Marketing tactics to generate traffic.

Organize an opening event at a local business. Create a relationship that might allow cross-promotions.

SUSTAINING YOUR HOME-BASED BUSINESS

Keep track of strategies that worked and flopped to fine tune your marketing tactics.

Ask for referrals and testimonials to build credibility.

Maintain and nurture your repeat business. Remember, it costs 80% less to maintain a current relationship than to develop a new one.

Recognize your top client base. They will be your best pied pipers. Ask for referrals.

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.

Title Insurance

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.

(800) 222-4502

Attorneys Title has access to over 2 million prior policies and provides a reissue rate when applicable, to help ensure you are getting the best price for your title insurance.

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.

UNSURPASSED SERVICE

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

in every major market in North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina