Chic vs. Geek: What's in a name?

What’s the difference between a Realtor and a real estate agent?

CHIC (PEARL)

This is a riddle that many of our clients aren’t sure how to answer because the titles are often used interchangeably. Both agents and REALTORS® are licensed to sell real estate, but each title refers to a specific type of real estate professional, and there are key distinctions between the two. For our clients, the most important difference is the level of professional standards. Anyone can become a real estate agent by studying, taking a test, and obtaining a license. Becoming a REALTOR® takes a whole new level of commitment to your clients and your work. You can find a local REALTOR® using this search tool.

GEEK (KEVIN)

“REALTOR®” is actually a trademarked term for real estate agent who is an active member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the largest trade association in the United States. New members attend an orientation and agree to abide by NAR’s Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice, which outlines our duties to clients, the public and other REALTORS®. The code includes 17 Articles, 71 supporting Standards of Practice, and 131 explanatory case interpretations. It’s based on the “Golden Rule” and requires that REALTORS® cooperate to further the best interests of consumers and their clients.

Chic vs. Geek: Before the Flood

Everybody’s talking about wildfires these days, but how can I tell if the home I’m looking at is in a flood hazard zone?

CHIC (PEARL)

One way is the Natural Hazard Disclosure form that the seller is required by state law to provide in their disclosure package.

GEEK (KEVIN)

You could also look at a map. Find your property using this interactive map of FEMA flood hazard zones.

Chic vs. Geek: Buying from a Builder

Are you thinking of buying a new construction project directly from the builder? Here are some things you need to know before you sign the contract...

CHIC (PEARL)

We know what you’re thinking: Buying a brand new home sounds like a dream. No creaky floors, no skeletons in the closet, and no surprises in the crawlspace. But you can’t judge a book by its cover. Just like old homes, new constructions come with their own set of potential pitfalls. We suggest you have the home professionally inspected before making any commitments.

GEEK (KEVIN)

The most important thing to remember when you’re buying a brand new construction is that you can’t take anything for granted. A builder will recommend their preferred lender, but shop around for multiple quotes to be sure you’re getting the best deal. And watch out for hidden defects, missing necessities, and pricey upgrades and upsells. Here’s more advice to help you through.

Chic vs. Geek: Macroeconomics

Real estate economists are reading the tea leaves from the first half of 2021 to predict what the housing market will look like for the rest of the year and into 2022. What are they finding?

CHIC (PEARL)

Based on early returns from 2021, national real estate economists are predicting a surge in supply from new home construction, the winding down of mortgage forbearance due to COVID-19, and a higher level of consumer confidence thanks to widespread vaccinations.

GEEK (KEVIN)

Higher home prices and higher mortgage rates will also create less demand. That means properties will remain on the market longer, leading to less hurried decisions for homebuyers. Meanwhile, rental prices will slowly increase with inflation. (More in Number Talk later this week!)

Chic vs. Geek: Hardening Your Home

Drought conditions combined with summer heat make the upcoming fire season even more threatening for homeowners. How can you prep your home? We’ve got some tips!

CHIC (PEARL)

Things any of us can do:

GEEK (KEVIN)

Things not everybody should do:

Things that should be left to professionals: