The Seller Experience
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
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.
YOUR POTENTIAL LISTING EXPOSURE
15,447,382
17,232,445
4,398,656
TOTAL VIDEO VIEWS
TOTAL IMPRESSIONS
TOTAL ENGAGEMENT
SCAN TO WATCH MY EPISODE
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.
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.
The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Difference
Initial Consultation Prepare Property & Develop Marketing Strategy
Launch the Listing
The Seller Experience The seller experience begins and ends with you. I will serve as your professional consultant to guide you through
Accept the Best Offer
this transition, and any future real estate needs. I am dedicated to streamlining the experience so you can focus on the demands of
Contract Period
Closing & Beyond
daily life.
PRE-LISTING INTERVIEW Why are you selling your home? Where are you going? How soon do you need to be there?
PROPERTY WALKTHROUGH HOME SELLING TIMELINE AND SCHEDULE
Initial Consultation
PROPER PRICING I will assist you with pricing your home based on a competitive market analysis. This will help you set the best price on your home so that it will sell within your time frame. I will also review potential costs associated with selling your home in order to reduce the likelihood of surprises.
MARKET VALUE Understanding Market Value Market-sensitive pricing can be the key to maximum market exposure and ultimately, a satisfactory sale.
PERCENT OF BUYERS WHO WILL VIEW A PROPERT Y
Competitive Market Analysis A Competitive Market Analysis (CMA) is an evaluation of similar, recently sold homes in proximity to the home intended to be bought or sold. These homes are of similar size, condition, age and style. Neither a seller nor a sales associate can determine the price of a home; the market determines the price of every home. Dangers of Overpricing An asking price beyond the market range can adversely affect property marketing. • Fewer buyers are attracted and fewer offers will be received. • Marketing time is prolonged and initial marketing momentum is lost. • The property attracts lookers and helps competing houses look better. • If a property does sell above true market value, it might not appraise and the buyers may not be able to secure a loan. • The property may eventually sell below market value as a result of extended days on the market.
+10% Asking Price
+5% Asking Price
-5% Asking Price
Fair Market Value
-10% Asking Price
Prepare Property & Develop Marketing Strategy
PREPARATION First impressions are key when selling a home. Before the ‘for sale’ sign goes up, put in the time to make sure your home is camera ready. Fresh paint, clean closets, and staging – there’s a lot you can do to maximize your market value. Consider a prelisting inspection if you have lived in the home for several years. Reviewing the property disclosure form can also serve as a checklist.
MARKETING STRATEGY The vast majority of
1
2
SIGN LISTING
PHOTOGRAPHY &
PREPARE MARKETING
AGREEMENT
MEASUREMENTS
COLLATERAL
homebuyers use the internet in their home search so your marketing plan will include focused online activities, in addition to print collateral and open houses.
GOALS • To make the process easier for you. • To put you in the strongest negotiating position possible. • To get your home sold and get you where you want to go on time.
3
DIGITAL EXPOSURE Tailored for your listing
our properties using our intelligent
Did you know the average person
targeting system to connect
spends over two hours a day on
with the right buyer.
social media? We know how to navigate the digital world to meet
We reach over 10 million people
potential buyers online. By creating
and generate over 300,000 clicks
a diverse online presence across
on average per year with our digital
multiple networks, we promote
advertising efforts.
ADVERTISE across the entire web
+1000 MORE
TARGET ads to the right location
FIND PEOPLE looking to buy your home
partnerships with select real estate websites ensure
DIGITAL PARTNERS Buyer behavior has shifted to a digital medium and
that your home will be published through hundreds of
the use of the internet to find properties continues to
powerful online channels.
increase at a steady rate year-over-year.
Additionally, our worldwide recognition and
As more buyers conduct their property searches
unmatched marketing efforts help you reach buyers
online, you can be confident your home will be
everywhere. We excel at engaging audiences through
showcased locally and globally. Our strategic
ongoing placement strategies.
97%
of buyers search online during the home buying process.* *Source: National Association of REALTORS® 2021
Website created for your listing
Email blast for your listing
Social media posts
DIGITAL ASSETS
Listing digital ads
Optimized for an easy Open house digital ads
online experience
Fast and easy online property search
Mobile app showing your listing
Open house registration page to capture event traffic
Launch the Listing SHOWCASING THE PROPERTY Open House Open your door to potential buyers on Open House Extravaganza weekends, which include a targeted digital ad promoting your open house on Facebook, Instagram, and the online display networks. All of our open houses are advertised on our listing syndication network and our website to ensure that potential buyers are being reached. Broker Open House A valuable opportunity for local sales associates who represent prospective buyers to preview your property.
Promotional materials to showcase your home · Yard Sign · Direct Mail Postcards · Flyers / Brochures · Door Hangers
ACTIVATE & SHOW PROPERTY After preparing your home for market and developing our marketing plan we will begin showings. Our showing service will contact you to schedule appointments on behalf of buyer’s agent who desire to bring their clients. We will provide consistent communication with showing
Our seller reports contain extensive information regarding online views of your property, including the number of times our website visitors looked at the listing details, how many times the property was emailed to clients, and any activity that was completed by a visitor looking at the property online.
feedback and report results of
Our digital performance reports
marketing activities. During this time
contain information about ad views,
we can modify the marketing plan
clicks and engagements
and pricing strategy as necessary.
for our online campaigns promoting your listing.
Analytics and Reporting We keep you informed every step of the way.
Seller
Accept the Best Offer RECEIVE OFFER Once an offer or multiple offers are received from a potential buyer or their buyer’s agent, I will guide you through the proposed price and terms. I will clarify each item and answer questions to help you decide whether or not to accept or respond with a counter offer.
NEGOTIATIONS Response – Will you accept, reject or counter? Negotiations can involve everything from sales price to concessions or dates. I am an expert negotiator whose job is to represent your interests. I will negotiate through the buyer’s agent to reach a favorable final agreement. The offer becomes a binding contract on the effective date, i.e. when the document is signed by all parties and communicated.
NEGOTIATIONS CAN INVOLVE EVERYTHING FROM SALES PRICE TO CONCESSIONS OR DATES.
Contract Period DUE DILIGENCE PERIOD The seller receives a copy of the executed contract along with the due diligence fee. Earnest monies are deposited with the escrow agent. Due diligence investigations are performed by buyers (inspections, appraisal, survey, etc.) During this time the buyer can terminate the contract for any reason and receive the earnest money deposit back. The home inspector is hired by the buyer to determine if the home is in need of any repairs. An inspector will check items, such as the roof, major systems, structure, plumbing, and electrical systems.
REPAIR NEGOTIATIONS The buyers will have an opportunity to submit a repair request and negotiate with you to cover the costs of requested repairs or to ask for concessions.
PENDING PERIOD I will help coordinate the preparation of attorney drafted seller documents (deed, lien waiver, 1099). I will always stay in contact with you and on top of the timelines. You will be responsible for removing personal property and preparing the home for the buyer’s final walk through in advance of settlement. Prior to settlement, you will receive a closing disclosure outlining all of the proceeds and fees that apply to you. We will review this together so that I can answer any questions.
CLOSING At settlement, all the paperwork is signed by the buyer and seller, both parties pay any settlement fees and the documents are officially recorded. Proceeds are delivered to the seller and keys are made available to the buyer.
I WILL ALWAYS STAY IN CONTACT WITH YOU AND ON TOP OF THE TIMELINES.
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.
Beyond Closing
Strength, Trust & Integrity Berkshire Hathaway Inc. is a worldwide
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
holding company based in Omaha, NE.
Carolinas Companies benefits from a
Its Chairman and CEO, Warren Buffett
globally respected reputation and a
is ranked one of the world’s most
sound financial foundation. Our roots
influential people according to Time
are local, and our reach is global.
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.
As proud members of this remarkable
Most 4 World’s Admired Companies
#
network, we thrive on helping buyers and sellers find their perfect home whether around the corner, across the country, or anywhere in the world.
3
#
Real Estate Company and Home Services Provider based on Transactions
Our Promise BEYOND OUR NAME THERE ARE CERTAIN QUALITIES THAT DEFINE US – TRAITS, PRACTICES, VALUES. EXCEED
PARTNER
expectations for exemplary service
with our associates to create an environment that
and professionalism in everything we do.
fosters success and meaningful careers.
BUILD
REDEFINE
lasting relationships based on trust and care
the home buying, selling, and owning process
with our clients and the communities we serve.
by integrating each element into a seamless real estate experience.
Greater Charlotte Ballantyne | Lake Norman SouthPark
UNSURPASSED SERVICE in every major market in North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina
Pinehurst Pinehurst | Southern Pines Triad Greensboro – Battleground Greensboro – Friendly Center Winston-Salem | Kernersville Triangle Cary | Chapel Hill | Durham | Raleigh
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.
Our Complete Suite of Home Services
Broker / REALTOR® 440-503-3580 Melissa.Zimmerman@BHHSCarolinas.com MelissaZimmermanRealtor.com @MelissaZimmermanRealtor @MelissaAZimmerman Melissa Zimmerman © 2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.