How Can A Real Estate Agent Help A Client On A Budget? – Ashley Bodell
On this episode of The Closing Table, we sat down with Ashley Bodell!
To watch the full episode, check it out on YouTube below. In the meantime, here’s a summary of the conversation…
Here’s what you missed from Ashley Bodell…
The conversation began with a fill-in-the-blank icebreaker on what most first-time home buyers have a problem with, the key to adding value to your home, and more. Ashley introduces herself as a dedicated mother to her six-year-old son and embarked on her real estate journey without prior knowledge in the field. However, this endeavor has empowered her to grow personally and become more involved in her community. Apart from her work, Ashley has a passion for running and indulges in gardening.
When asked about the current market, Ashley mentions that Grand Rapids stands out due to its accessibility. The surrounding areas have experienced a similar surge in demand as Grand Rapids, fueled in part by its proximity to the lake shore. The market’s dynamics since the onset of the Covid pandemic make it both intriguing and noteworthy.
According to a customer review, Ashley’s commitment to her clients’ best interests shines through. Even when they were unaware of their own needs, she guided them through the process, ensuring their well-being. Ashley emphasizes that she draws on her own experience as a first-time homebuyer, where there were certain aspects she didn’t understand initially. Recognizing that people may hesitate to ask questions, she pays close attention to cues. When working with first-time homebuyers, Ashley tailors her approach to suit their personality, breaking down the process into manageable sections. For some individuals, she lays everything out on the table, providing thorough explanations to ensure clarity.
When it comes to managing people’s perception of listings with revised prices, Ashley takes an honest approach. She explains to clients that the market ultimately determines the value of a property, and price adjustments can simply reflect market conditions or generate more interest. She highlights that price reductions can even lead to increased offers and facilitate successful deals.
Considering the median household income in the U.S. is $75,000, which sets an affordability limit of $256,000 for a home purchase, Ashley actively assists buyers within this income range. She humorously remarks that “$250k is the new $150k” due to rising prices. However, she strives to set realistic expectations and positions her clients for success. By encouraging them to think creatively and explore different options, Ashley helps them navigate the competitive market. She also suggests more affordable neighborhoods like Wyoming and North Park, considering her clients’ individual motivations and goals.
When comparing condos and townhomes to single-family homes, it is often observed that the former are more affordable. In response to a question about the benefits and drawbacks for first-time homebuyers, Ashley points out that condos, especially for single individuals, offer low maintenance. However, one drawback is that the rate of appreciation may be lower compared to single-family homes.
Recognizing that each first-time homebuyer’s journey is unique, Ashley shares a success story of her own. Initially, she never thought she would own a house and neglected important aspects like credit. However, with the encouragement of a realtor friend, she worked on improving her credit for a year. When she finally closed on her home, she was astounded that the property was now hers. Within two years, she sold it and made a $40,000 profit. Ashley advises others to view their homes as a financial asset and leverage the growth potential. She cites another success story of her friend, who overcame medical bills and credit challenges to purchase a home that now has $100,000 in equity. Ashley emphasizes that anyone can achieve homeownership, even in the face of setbacks, as long as they persist and learn from their experiences.
The conversation wraps up with her approach to homeownership with today’s resources, Ashley suggests using credit cards with deposits as limits to improve credit scores. Keeping even a small balance on these cards can be beneficial, especially for those struggling with debt. She encourages individuals to change their perspective on debt and not let it weigh them down. Ashley believes in learning the game of credit and observing trends to navigate the process successfully. Her message to aspiring homeowners is to overcome fear, keep pushing forward, and believe that owning a home is possible for everyone.
Check out Ashley Bodell:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BodellRaeAshley
Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyBodellRealtor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.bodell.realtor/
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