Cara Lonsdale, North Scottsdale Realtor | Broker

Every Real Estate journey is different, but clear communication is at the center of all of them. I start with a conversation to determine what the client is looking for as their end result, and then build a customized, strategic plan of action from there. So, having that conversation is an important first step toward working proactively to achieve the ultimate goal. Then, I like to familiarize my client with forms and processes that they will likely experience during the course of the transaction. Having a clear understanding of what is coming can be a relief to clients, especially if this is a first purchase or sale.

I started in Real Estate in 1997 when I was a 24 year old single mother. I absorbed everything about Real Estate and loved every aspect of it. As a learning based person, I went to classes and training seminars that would advance my knowledge and sharpen my skills in contract writing, negotiation, and Real Estate law. When I wanted to explore a new avenue of Real Estate I would use myself as the trial case. In 1999, I bought my first house using the HUD program. Through that experience, I learned how the HUD program worked and I was able to add a valuable tool for first time homebuyers, and eventually investors. This is one example of how I went through the experience not only to learn HOW to do it, but also, so I knew the best way to support a client through it.

I have worked with all kinds of clients from Sellers in any part of the Valley, to first time home buyers or investors to seasoned Investors, developers, capital partners and more. I have worked with out-of-state and out-of-Country (FIRPTA) clients. I am equipped to do virtual walk throughs or evaluations for investors looking to add to their portfolio, or as simple as a Buyer being relocated for work and needing to have a place to live when they get here. I provide the same attention and skill to every client, regardless of the purchase price.

Agents are NOT the same. It is so important to select an agent who will invest in educating you on what you need to know for your transaction, prepare you for things that will, or may come up, and equip you with an actionable plan for achieving your goal, whether it be making your first purchase, selling your home, or starting your investment portfolio of properties. Having an experienced advocate to guide you through your transaction is a vital part of your Real Estate journey. Some questions to think about: For Buyers, how will the agent develop a customized search to target only properties that meet your exact criteria? Will they provide a dedicated online portal to manage your search and allow you to communicate with them and ask questions. Do they have trusted partners they rely on to refer you to throughout the transaction like lender, title, home inspection and home warranty, or will they just hand you 3 pamphlets and tell you to choose? Are they a strong negotiator who will advocate for you during the contract negotiations? Do you have a direct line for them to reach them when you have questions or concerns? How do they handle unexpected surprises in a transaction? For Sellers, what kind of strategy does the agent have for determining the best price, besides looking at recently closed sales, especially in a shifting market? How will they maximize qualified Buyer foot traffic through your property besides just listing it in the MLS? Do they have an aggressive marketing plan to get your property noticed? Are they a strong negotiator that will be a fierce advocate for you during contract negotiations, and continue to protect your bottom line through home inspection and appraisal processes? How will they manage an inspection repair request? Do you have a direct line to the agent, or will you be passed off to their assistant once you sign the listing agreement? Will they send activity reports so that you have clear communication about the status of your listing as it pertains to their efforts? For Investors, does the agent know how to evaluate a property for your purpose (rental/STR, flip/BRRRR) including the ability to walk the property with investor eyes to determine what is needed. Will they be able to coordinate timing for a 1031 if applicable? Do they have resources for capital funds in case you need hard money? Can they make strategic recommendations on pricing, rather than using arbitrary lowball figures that will likely be rejected?