Top SF Agent POV: Need to Know for Buyers

Writings about residential real estate and all things home, by Cynthia Cummins of Kindred SF Homes.

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I’m writing a book about residential real estate (part how-to, part memoir) and was recently looking at “comps” to present to a potential publisher. 

Luckily (or not, depending on your viewpoint), there’s no shortage of resources for people who want to learn about investing in real estate. We could stack a column of books from floor to ceiling in a Victorian house. We can start with Rich Dad Poor Dad, work our way past The ABCs of Real Estate Investing, fit in The Millionaire Real Estate Investor and add Never Split the Difference just for the heck of it. 

But I’m of the opinion that you don’t need a book to prepare you to buy. You need an agent, first and foremost.

That’s the number-one piece of advice contained in this excellent primer from Real Simple, 7 Things First-Time Home Buyers Wish They Knew. Ignore that awkward title (my question is when do buyers wish they knew those seven things?) and take note of the right-on-target advice it offers. Nothing about shopping for competitive loan rates or educating oneself on Zillow.

Along the same lines, check out this Real Estate Therapy post about how home buying is decidedly not a DIY activity. Excellent agents are ready and available to help you right now and it won’t cost you a dime – ever. Why wouldn’t you avail yourself of that assistance? Duh…

If you’re interested in purchasing in this current buyer’s market, or if you know somebody who’s looking for a big-hearted, kick-ass agent to represent them, please contact me!

Photo Credit: Stephanie Guarini