Chic vs. Geek: Autumn or Fall?

This Wednesday, we celebrate the beginning of autumn — or fall — when the weather begins to chill and colors begin to turn. So what’s your favorite part of the season?

CHIC (PEARL)

I love everything about autumn, but my favorite thing has to be kicking up a pile of red, yellow, orange-y brown leaves and hearing them snap, crackle, and pop underneath my feet. It makes me feel like a kid again, even just for a moment, and you can’t trade that for anything.

GEEK (KEVIN)

I cannot tell a lie. I live for pumpkin spice. Lattes, muffins, waffles, milkshakes. I will literally try anything with that precious taste that’s not quite pumpkin, not super spicy, and all things delicious. Of course, this obsession has a bad effect on my health, so I have to learn to control the urge.

Chic vs. Geek: Local Touch / National Reach

In today’s real estate market, it’s important to find an agent who knows the local scene and has contacts to open opportunities across the country.

CHIC (PEARL)

As Compass agents, we have access to a cross-country network of more than 22,000 colleagues who can help you find your dream home, wherever it may be. We can also provide you with the best digital platforms to make your buying or selling journey clean, simple, and low-stress.

GEEK (KEVIN)

Did you know about 95% of all real estate searches start online? In order to find potential buyers, you need to hang a sign in the big digital mall that is the Internet. We’ll leverage the Compass brand to get greater exposure for your listing when you sell your home with us.

Chic vs. Geek: Housing Affordability

With younger generations looking to buy or rent a home and older folks staying in their homes and living longer, there’s a nationwide shortage of affordable housing. So how do we solve it?

CHIC (PEARL)

Many first-time homebuyers have unrealistic expectations of what “affordable” means for them, especially in Silicon Valley. Unless you have an unlimited budget, it might make sense to start with a smaller home and build equity toward a bigger purchase later. And take advantage of all the government assistance and financing options available.

GEEK (KEVIN)

I’m a big believer in the power of technology. We have the tools to mass-produce prefabricated homes in factories faster and cheaper than building on site. But red tape gets in the way in the form of land use, zoning, and delays with inspections and paperwork. We won’t solve this problem until government works at the speed of business.

Chic vs. Geek: Buyer fatigue — or exhaustion?

Even the most patient people get worn down by the real estate market. How can homebuyers avoid burnout?

CHIC (PEARL)

First thing’s first: Know what you want and have a plan. If you don’t stick to a clear vision and price range, you’ll get stuck stressing over the details, and you might miss out on some great opportunities. And don’t get lost in a sea of listings. Pick your top targets and focus your energy on them.

GEEK (KEVIN)

Just like pro athletes, you have to dig deep and find that second and third wind to get to the end of your real estate journey. When it comes to keeping your eyes on the prize, it’s important to have a partner in the journey who you can trust — whether it’s your agent or your friend. We try to be both.

Chic vs. Geek: Know Your Market

It seems like a seller’s paradise out there right now, but how can you be sure to get the price you want with a quick turnaround?

CHIC (PEARL)

With all these bidding wars ending in sales prices well above listing in Silicon Valley, it’s easy to think all you need to do is put your property on the market to get a big, quick sale. But it’s not that easy. First impressions are still important. So don’t skimp on the spruce. Give your home a facelift with a new paint job or other upgrade, and make sure to get the word out through a strong marketing campaign.

GEEK (KEVIN)

Price is just as important as looks. You may end up selling high, but you can’t necessarily start there. If you want to create a bidding war, go with a reasonable listing price and let the buyers take it from there. Oh, and don’t just take the highest offer. The terms of the deal can be just as lucrative, like cash up front, more time to stay in the house until you find a new home, or other perks.