A Lifetime of Memories Starts Here
Steve takes a different approach to real estate ...
Steve understands that buying or selling a home is more than just a transaction: it’s a life-changing experience. That’s why he, as your real estate professional, is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized service for each clients. He takes great pride in the relationships he builds and always works relentlessly on the client’s behalf to help them achieve their real estate goals.
STEVE'S COMMITMENT TO A+ SERVICE
COMMUNICATION – Steve will answer your calls and communicate with you about the activity on your home. You can call, text or email him and he will respond quickly!
KNOWLEDGE – Steve stays on top of the latest market trends so that he can guide you through pricing strategies and negotiate the sale of your home or the negotiation in a purchase of a home.
CONNECTION – Steve stays connected with local professionals in the real estate, home building and finance industry so that he will have resources to help close the deal.
TECHNOLOGY – This is the age of the internet and through careful placement of ads on websites and social media Steve will use his considerable skill to market your home heavily to increase traffic and showings.
BUYING? CALL STEVE FIRST! WHY?
The sign will have a phone number to allow you to quickly access more information—but beware. Your information goes directly to the listing agent and the listing agent works for the seller, not the buyer.
Your first move should be to call Steve!
Sellers and their agents (the name and phone number displayed on the yard sign) have a written contractual agreement outlining their relationship. That means the listing agent has a legal obligation to work on the seller’s behalf — to get the highest possible price and the best terms available for the seller, not the buyer
The listing agent is legally obligated to share any information they learn about you, the buyer, with the seller. If a potential buyer walks into an open house and strikes up a conversation with a personable listing agent, any information divulged there can be used against the buyer during eventual negotiations. So telling a listing agent you are “relocating within the next month for a new job at a high profile company with a great offer that increased your salary so now you can afford more house than before?” That can hurt you later if it comes to a bid on the property.
Call Steve FIRST. Within seconds he can have all the details of that house in front of him and can schedule a time for you to go in and see it with him to guide you through the process. And besides, Steve loves Open House hoping with clients.
AS YOUR BUYERS AGENT WHAT DOES STEVE DO?
Whether a buyer uses an agent or not, the seller still pays the commission. The only person that wins when buyers are not represented is the listing agent.
Most buyer agents will have their clients sign an agency agreement, an Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement. It outlines their services, how they are compensated, and how the two parties will work together.
Remember, you wouldn’t hire your spouse’s attorney to represent you in your divorce. The same goes for real estate. Why use the seller’s agent to negotiate your best interest? There is an inherent conflict of interest.
The home buying process is stressful enough without worrying about who you can and cannot trust. Your buyer’s agent is your trusted advocate.
Buyer Agents and the Agreements
According to most buyer agency agreements, the buyer’s agent must do these things:
- Protect their client’s financial information
- Negotiate the best possible price for the buyer
- Must disclose to the buyer if they are working with another buyer interested in the same property
- Show all properties the buyer is interested in that fits their criteria and budget
- Connect you with the service providers—inspectors, lenders, home warranty companies—to best suit your needs
The buyer also has some responsibilities to their buyer’s agent:
- Buyers must work with their buyers agent exclusively
- Buyers should never give personal information to any other agent
- Buyers should not call other agents to see properties, even if they think they are saving their agent some time and effort
- Buyers should clearly define their must haves and deal breakers to help their agent streamline the showing process
Buyers should interview agents just as seller’s interview listing agents.
Make sure the buyer’s agent you select is familiar with the type of property you want to purchase, the area you want to purchase in and the particulars of your situation. An agent is only as effective as the information they are given.
Buying real estate is a big decision. The best advice is to find a REALTOR® who will guide you through the local market conditions.
STEVE IS YOUR GO TO RESOURCE
Mission Statement:
My philosophy is simple: clients come first.
I pledge to be in constant communication with my clients, keeping them fully informed throughout the entire buying or selling process. I believe that if you’re not left with an amazing experience, I haven’t done my job. I don’t measure success through achievements or awards, but through the satisfaction of my clients.
Listings
Steve was awesome to work with. He listened to my needs and didn’t stop working until we found the home of my dreams! Thankful for his help and professionalism.
Jacob FaulknerSteve has been the most wonderful agent to work with. Our experience was very enjoyable and I enjoyed getting to know him as we saw forty plus houses. You’re the best!
Nona KellySteve has an amazing process to sell your home and provides the personal service and commitment needed to get top dollar. He can make it happen!
April Bell
Hamilton County Communities
Ooltewah
Chattanooga
Hixson
North Georgia
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From time to time I'd love to share with you what's happening in the real estate world here in Chattanooga and Hamilton County.
Hear about real estate trends and market moves that affect your home. These emails will include value added information on free workshops on finance, home improvements, and more.
I'll share special home owner offers and listing specials found nowhere else. You'll be invited to social and benefit events in the area as my guest. By signing up, you'll be a part of the Darmody Realtor family.
I'd be honored to have you stand with me as we make Ooltewah one of the greatest places to live on earth.