Buyers Guide
3
A higher standard of service & expertise for Seattle Eastside home buyers
Engel & Völkers Property Buyers Guide
Karen Abbey is equal parts consummate professional, and your new best friend. Her unique style of real estate brokerage combines a seasoned market perspective with value creation and investment potential - customized for each client's needs. Areas of specialty are unique listings, first time home buyers, relocation, short sales, and complex transactions. Beginning her real estate career in 2010, Karen has served buyers and sellers at all price points with a deep commitment to exceeding client expectations. She is known as an advocate and "tactful negotiator" which over the years has resulted in clients sharing 5-star Zillow ratings, being voted a 5-Star Professional for each of the past 4 years, and in achieving many International production awards including President's Club. Karen's expertise serves both buyers and sellers - and underscores pricing/offer strategy, trusted contractor referrals, proven staging services, and premium marketing. She is a member of the National Association of Realtors, Washington State Association of Realtors and the Seattle-King County Association of Realtors. Born in Paris, Karen embraces a global view of both life and of real estate. Affiliating with Engel & Völkers connects her to a global network of listing professionals and locations - and also to the ability to sell Yachts, Planes, and Castles. If anyone could sell a castle - it's Karen. A practical optimist, Karen's motto is "Bringing Sunshine To Every Day." Call her. She does!
Karen Abbey
2
Real Estate Advisor 206.580.409.7415 karen.abbey@evrealestate.com
5311 46th Avenue S • Seattle, WA Bright and cheerful craftsman in superb location! Curb appeal to spare and artful interior finishes just spell HAPPY here. Honey-colored oak hardwoods, classic craftsman trim, mullioned windows, French doors, arched entry ways for style; modern systems for structure. Updated kitchen is centerstage, slate-gray tile, SS appliances, lots of storage and prep space, gas cooking. French doors open to fantastic backyard with pretty brick patios, winding paths, wisteria arbor and spring color ready to pop. Finished basement has bedroom, office, recroom, bath & W/D. Fully efficient w/ 2022 gas furnace, gas water heater, double-panled windows. Orca K-8 school same block, close to all the fun in Columbia/Hillman City, Lake WA & Seward Park. Just smile & move included.
6414 Ne 154th Street Kenmore • WA Beautifully remodeled mid-century charmer in sought after Arrowhead! Bright, open living spaces featuring white painted millwork, designer paint colors, gleaming hardwoods, vinyl windows, vaulted ceilings, skylights, & more. Inviting great room with wall of windows, plus additional family room off kitchen. Remodeled kitchen including custom cabinets, quartzite counters & SS appliances. Gorgeous primary suite with 5-piece bath & walk-in closet. Oversized yard with mature landscaping, covered entertainment size patio, outbuilding/studio, & lots of garden and/or play area. Easy access to Lake Washington, Saint Edward Park, eateries, shopping, and all that the eastside has to offer. Hurry!!!
"I need more stars for Karen. It is a genuine pleasure to watch a master at her craft. It's rare to see someone so good at what they do and who clearly enjoys it so much. Karen is the real deal" ..." I've trusted her since and been rewarded with an incredible champion in my corner. She goes way beyond expectations, whether we are looking for a place or just looking to get some expert knowledge, she is here for us. Need someone to come meet with a general contractor and play bad cop? Need someone to explain some arcane aspect of local housing rules? Need someone to coach you through negotiation? Karen has your back. I'm slow to trust someone who's relationship to me involves money, and over these past years I have come to trust Karen 100%. She has our best interests at heart and is a really good person. Seriously, you won't find a better advocate, specialist, or teacher than Karen. I'll never go with anyone else!" -Chris ___ "Wow! We have bought and sold multiple houses and I can easily say Karen is the best realtor we have ever worked with. She is an expert on the market in South Seattle, a tactful negotiator, and a great communicator. We had an offer over the asking price in the first week on the market. She went above and beyond on promotional material, house staging, drone & 3d footage, and virtual open houses. " -Ainsley ___ "Karen was wonderful to work with - she came with us to all of the showings and scoped out some on her own. She always had insightful knowledge about every house as well as the location. She has a good feel for how neighborhoods are changing and made our experience feel comfortable and successful." - Alli ___ "I just purchased my first home with Karen, and she was extremely supportive, kind, and easy to get ahold of. She patiently walked me through the entire process and was extremely efficient and professional. She has spoiled me for all other realtors! I can't recommend her enough for the most stress-free property purchase possible." -Sarah
Successfully Sold
expertise
5
What My Clients Say
Opinions
4
826 77th Drive Se • Lake Stevens, WA Meticulous and Spacious Upgraded Sonterra Smart-Home (Orig. 5 Bdrm Plan) with Bay/City/mountain Views & Gorgeous Sunsets! Formal Living room & Dining with See-thru Stone Fpl, Nook w/Slider to Rear Entertainment Size Sealed View Deck, Gourmet Kitchen with Granite/SS Appl’s/Walnut Cab’s & Walk-in Pantry, Shoe/Coat Station, Powder Bath, Up-Loft Bonus Rm, Spare Bedrooms with Walk-ins, Dbl Vanity Hall Bath, Master with Lavish 5 Piece Bath & 2 Walk-ins, Laundry with built-ins, Down–Full Bath, Huge Family/Rec Area with Gas Fireplace and Slider to Year-round Covered Patio with Stamped Concrete/Heaters/Speakers/TV & Built-in BBQ with Bar Seating! A/C, Knotty Pine hardwood, Painted Millwork, Sec System w/Video, Fully Fenced with Synthetic Turf, Hardiplank w/Stone Accents & Knotty Pine Ext! Community Park & Play Area!
7
rom starter homes to dream homes, as 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 Engel & Völkers Buying Experience
6
There are both financial and emotional benefits to owning a home. After all, a home is the center of y our 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.
The Power of Investing in Ownership
9
8
Partner with an Engel & Völkers advisor
11
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.
10
FIXED COSTS Seek professional advise 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.
The Value of the Buyer's Agent
13
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.
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.
12
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:
Breaking it Down: The Buying Process
15
14
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.
16
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.
17
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.
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.
18
19
Select an advisor 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
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:
The Buying Process
Packing Tips
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 sales and purchase 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!
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.
Moving Checklist
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.
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.
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.
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.
21
20
22
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
23
Karen Abbey • Engel & Völkers Seattle Eastside Karen.Abbey@evrealestate.com • karenabbey.evrealestate.com (206) 409-7415
{{=ifError(nearestNamedReferenceKey('https://data.app.marq.com/dataSets/3895').'Disclaimers', 'Disclaimers')}}
