Buyers Guide
A higher standard of service & expertise for Seattle Eastside home buyers
Engel & Völkers Property Buyers Guide
Robert Laing Engel & Völkers Seattle Eastside Real Estate Advisor (206) 552-0599 • robert.laing@evrealestate.com
Julie Fontanez Engel & Völkers Seattle Eastside Real Estate Advisor (206) 651-5770 • julie.fontanez@evrealestate.com
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Julie and Robert are a dynamic duo of real estate professionals, each with their own area of specializationand a shared commitment to exceptional service.With Julie's years of experience in real estate and banking coupled with Robert's extensive background in tech, finance, legal, and contracts, they bring a comprehensive wealth of expertise to the table. Julie's expertise in residential properties and Robert's focus on commercial real estate allow them to cater to a diverse range of clients' needs. Their deep knowledge, coupled with their ADU Specialist Certification and fluency in Spanish, positions them as trusted advisors in the Seattle-Tacoma markets and surrounding cities.
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What Our Clients Say
Opinions
5614 SW Admiral Way, Seattle, WA 98116 Comfort, luxury, and aesthetic all meet to bring you this new construction home in Alki! Modernist design combines with striking views of Puget Sound on every level. Perfect for entertaining guests, the rooftop deck also include views of Mt. Olympus in the west. Features two primary bedrooms and decks on the main and upper levels. Multiple highlights in the home for convenience and safety include a dumbwaiter for all four levels, pot filler above stovetop, and a wetbar. Home is bathed in natural light thanks to the open space and ample windows.
"Julie & Robert are a dream team! We had experience of purchasing a condo, but it was a completely different ball game being first time single-family-home buyers. From the initial call with Julie, she asked thoughtful questions to get an idea of what we were looking for, and stayed in constant contact throughout the process. Julie & Robert were very patient with us as we asked questions and deliberated over things we were unsure of. And, they offered guidance and expertise when we really needed it: making an offer, the inspection report, and more. They even asked if we could bring our dog to the inspection and final walkthrough and made it happen! The details and thoughtfulness really make this team stand out. I would definitely recommend the FontanezLaing team to anybody looking for a home!" -ATHENA J. ___ "My experience with realtors over years has been pretty cut and dried, until October 2022. After finding Julie Fontanez online, I chose her because she speaks fluent Spanish. I felt this would be an asset, because my home was in a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood. We met, and she then introduced me to her business partner and husband Robert Laing. They work as a solid team. The entire experience with these two agents from Engel and Volkers/Seattle, was a smooth transition on all accounts, from home owner, to seller, to closing. Julie and Robert are true, experienced professionals, who know the market and see it with a clear vision, to a fair conclusion. Their honesty and support motivated me. Thank you for the opportunity to express my appreciation. " -SHIRLEY R. ___ "Julie and Robert were the best! I can’t speak highly enough of them. Their professionalism, knowledge, integrity and hard work, they kept us apprised about available appointments and always let us know as soon as a new one came on the market. They were honest and forthright- no games. much appreciated and respected. Very detail oriented and good with people. Every time we were checking homes our kids was so excited to meet Julie and Robert. Thank you for making purchase of our first family home so a breeze." - BINIAMAN T.
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3553 SW 100th St • Seattle, WA 98146 This one definitely makes The Nice List! Everything is done - just unpack & enjoy. Tucked away on a quiet & private lot, this updated home has it all! Entertain effortlessly in the open kitchen, overlooking a cozy hangout nook & formal dining room. Main floor living room is spacious & comfortable for movie or game nights. Primary suite is a sanctuary next to additional bedrooms & convenient laundry. 4th bedroom or rec room/home office provides flexible layout options. New backyard deck is ready for BBQ’s. Newer roof, siding, paint & efficient Milgard Windows throughout.
expertise
737 Olive Wy #3800 • Seattle, WA 98101 Penthouse Living at its Best in this Northwest corner home atop Seattle's premier Hyatt Hotel. Sparkling City Lights, Puget Sound and Mountain Views from this Custom 3 Bedroom 3 Bath Plus den NW Corner Home at Olive 8! 10' Ceilings, Marble Baths, Pedini Kitchen. Automatic shades throughout, Two parking spaces. World-Class Hotel Amenities: 24-hour Concierge, Room Service, Gym, Saline Lap Pool & Spa. Residents-Only Club w/ BBQ Terrace, Dog Run & Grooming Station, Entertainment Lounge & Caterer's Kitchen. Walk to World Class Shopping, Theaters, Restaurants, Amazon, Whole Foods.
Successfully Sold
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The Engel & Völkers Buying Experience
rom starter homes to dream homes, at Engel & Völkers we provide unparalleled and personalized buying experiences for every client. We believe that buying a home is one of the most important decisions you will make, and it’s an honor and our passion to be part of this journey with you. As trusted advisors, we make it our responsibility to understand your home buying goals – from your overall vision and budget, to neighborhood amenities and architectural details – and help you discover the right space to call your own. To us, luxury is about the richness of life that begins and ends in the most important space we know — home.
The Power of Investing in Ownership
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There are both financial and emotional benefits to owning a home. After all, a home is the center of your world. HOME EQUITY When you own a home, you are investing your money into your future. Home equity has the ability to increase each time you make your monthly mortgage payments, as well as when you make smart home improvements. In a strong economy, home values can increase each year. The greater your equity, the more you can capitalize on your home’s value over time.
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Engel & Völkers is known throughout the world for the unmistakable service experience our advisors provide their clients. Our advisors offer more than a typical real estate agent, representing an elevated level or service, expertise, and performance. Engel & Völkers attracts real estate professionals who are well respected within their communities, as well as those who have a deep understanding of client service. We know the people, the places and the nuances of each cul-de- sac, community and country we represent. As trusted advisors, we guide you through your home journey with in depth neighborhood expertise, distinguished care — and a bit of fun.
Partner with an Engel & Völkers advisor
FIXED COSTS Seek professional advice from your tax consultants about your financing options (if you are financing) to tailor your investment commitment to your specific needs. CREATIVE FREEDOM Owning a property allows you to surround yourself with an aesthetic that reflects your personality and brings you joy. The possibilities can be endless when it comes to turning your home into your dream space. STABILITY A home should be a place of comfort and happiness. With homeownership comes a sense of security in an investment and a space where memories are made.
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The Value of the Buyer's Agent
Hiring a buyer's agent can offer several advantages to individuals looking to purchase a property. Here is a list of reasons why hiring a buyer's agent can be beneficial to you.
Market Knowledge Buyer's agents are familiar with local real estate markets and can provide valuable insights into current trends, property values, and neighborhood dynamics. Negotiation Skills Experienced buyer's agents are skilled negotiators who can help you secure the best possible deal. They can negotiate on your behalf to get a fair price and favorable terms. Access to Listings Buyer's agents have access to multiple listing services (MLS) and can help you find properties that match your criteria more efficiently than if you were searching on your own. Save Time and Effort By outsourcing the property search to a buyer's agent, you can save significant time and effort. They can narrow down options based on your preferences, schedule showings, and handle paperwork. Objective Advice Buyer's agents work for you and have your best interests in mind. They can provide objective advice, helping you make informed decisions without being influenced by the seller or their agent.
Legal and Contractual Expertise Real estate transactions involve complex legal documents. A buyer's agent can guide you through the paperwork, ensuring that all the necessary documents are properly completed and submitted. Professional Network Buyer's agents often have a network of professionals, including inspectors, mortgage brokers, and real estate attorneys. This can be valuable in streamlining the buying process and connecting you with trusted service providers. Understanding of the Buying Process If you're a first-time homebuyer or unfamiliar with the buying process, a buyer's agent can educate you on the steps involved and provide guidance at every stage. Property Evaluation Buyer's agents can assess properties based on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. They can point out potential issues and help you make an informed decision about the property's value. Streamlined Communication Acting as a buffer between you and the seller's agent, a buyer's agent can facilitate communication, ensuring that your interests are protected and that negotiations remain professional. Risk Management A buyer's agent can help you identify potential risks associated with a property and advise you on how to mitigate them. This includes issues related to the property condition, legal aspects, and potential resale challenges.
Breaking it Down: The Buying Process
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The reasons for buying a home are personal, so the first thing to consider is what you want to achieve in purchasing a home. Buying a home is filled with both strategic thinking and emotions. With ever-changing market conditions and other variables, various factors may affect the path you take in finding the property that’s right for you. As your consultant, an Engel & Völkers advisor helps you understand the market landscape and determine, based on your goals, if now is in fact the right time to buy and then identifying the correct approach. As far as the property itself, it’s wise to invest the time to outline the key factors and features relating to your search, including (see next page):
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YOUR BUYING POWER It’s important to identify what you are able to afford when it comes to a home and how much a lender is willing to loan based on key factors such as income, debt, expenses etc. Your advisor can help you work within that budget and take into account other considerations as it relates to the property you seek.
WHAT TYPE OF HOME DO YOU WANT? Are you looking for a single-family home, townhouse, condominium, co-op or a multi-family building? There are many options and considerations for each that will impact your search.
YOUR MUST-HAVES Identify your must-haves and list them out in priority, for both you and whomever you may be purchasing your home with. Make a list of your non-negotiables when it comes to a home and take that with you when you are visiting properties.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION This is one of the most important factors to consider when you’re looking for your new home, because unlike structures, paint colors, and flooring, the location of your home cannot be changed. Beyond the physical location of the home within the city or town, you should also think about its location in the neighborhood, community, and/or the building, as this too will have an impact on your home’s value.
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hether you are looking to purchase your first home, a vacation home, or an investment property, our advisors maintain an active list of available local homes, and also have access to listings worldwide through the Engel & Völkers’ global network. We take pleasure in working with you, and preparing you, for the home buying process through the following steps:
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Select an advisor Sign required Buyer Brokerage Services Agreement Gain mortgage pre-approval (if financing) Have an initial consultation with your advisor with your pre-approval in-hand to set up your strategy together Shop for your new home Work with your advisor to present a well-crafted offer and allow them to negotiate on your behalf Home inspection Appraisal Finalize Documents Final Walk Through Closing & Move In
The Buying Process
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Moving Checklist
Separate your valuables and important documents, and keep them with you during the move. Prepare a ‘Start-up Kit’ of items and box those up to take with you as well. This way if your belongings arrive late, or you are delayed in unpacking, you will have what you need immediately on hand. Label boxes by items and room to make unpacking an easier process.
STRATEGIZE A smooth and successful move is only possible with a plan. Select a moving day to work toward. Identify and engage a moving company as soon as possible – Engel & Völkers is happy to make a local recommendation.
DECLUTTER AND DONATE Before you begin packing up boxes, take inventory of your furniture and other belongings to decide what to keep and what to purge. If items are not worth the effort of packing, moving and unpacking, consider donating, selling or discarding them.
PACK Purchase your moving supplies including boxes, moving labels, bubble wrap etc. Begin packing items that won’t be needed between now and your move date including things like decorations, photos and off season clothing. Then, schedule time to pack remaining items based on room or category to make it easy to unpack.
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS Make sure to not only update your address with friends, family and service providers, but also any mailing clubs, subscriptions and utility companies for both ending services and activating them at your new address.
FINAL PREPARATIONS This is the day when your moving strategy pays off and your focus can be on saying goodbyes and enjoying the exciting elements of your new home. Once you get into your new home one of the first things you should do is to have new locks installed and extra sets of keys made.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT CLOSING As long as you have everything in order, the closing process should be simple and straightforward. Closing day typically happens four to six weeks after the purchase and sales contract is executed and includes the buyer and seller, along with their respective agents, a representative from the title company, closing agent, or attorney, and lender. The closing process is where the buyer and seller execute and sign all remaining legal documents and pay closing costs and escrow items. Be sure to bring two forms of identification, certified funds for any remaining costs, and any additional documents requested by the lender. Once all paperwork is executed you will receive the keys to your new home and then all that’s left to do is celebrate!
Packing Tips
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At Engel & Völkers, we believe in clients for life. Not only during, but well after the purchase of a home, our advisors connect you with experts to help you continue making the most of the walls and community that surround you. Luxury found in the little moments that when combined create the essence — and the intangible qualities — that make a house, “home.”
Live Your Luxury
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FONTANEZ LAING TEAM • {{=ifError(nearestNamedReferenceKey('https://data.app.marq.com/dataSets/604').'Shop Name', 'Shop Name')}} {{=ifError(nearestNamedReferenceKey('https://data.app.marq.com/dataSets/604').'Shop Address', 'Shop Addres…')}} (206) 651-5770 • (206) 552-0599 julie.fontanez@evrealestate.com • robert.laing@evrealestate.com fontanezlaing.com
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