Christen Lagerstrom - Realtor - Windermere Valley/Liberty Lake

Lengthy read but it’s worth the read… 🙌

There is a lot of talk in the news about real estate agent commissions. They LOVE what they do and they do it because they LOVE helping people but there is almost always a huge misconception on what they do and how they get paid. It's not a secret so here ya go...😊

The average FULL TIME REALTOR’s earnings last year was $31,900 @ 40+ hours a week. (Notice I wrote full time 40+ hours not 0-20 hours a week) which is well below the living wage. As a REALTOR they do not get paid a hourly wage or salary and they only get paid if they sell a home and it closes. They can only get paid by broker to broker. As an agent you could work with someone days, weeks, months, or years with no guarantee of a sale ever.

Essentially they wake up each day unemployed going on Job Interviews and they deal with constant rejection. They dedicate time away from family, use our time, gas, pay for babysitters, miss dinner and weekends and rarely take vacations. They are on 24/7! You constantly need to be on, or you could miss an opportunity. Once they do close a home, half goes to the other persons agent from the remaining half. They have lots of upfront expenses that must be paid out before they even get paid:

Broker Splits and Fees
Office rent and utilities
MLS Fees
NAR Fees
Local Association Fees
E&O Business Insurance
Extended Auto Insurance
Self-Employment Tax
State Licensing Fees
Advertising Fees
Showing Service Fees
Website Fees
Assistant's Salaries
Showing partners
Transaction coordinator
Yard Signs
Photographers
Videographers
Office Supplies
Business Cards
Property Flyers
Electronic Lockboxes
Continued RE Education
Legal Fees
Gas
Income taxes are not taken out so they have to put that aside around 25-30%.

Don’t forget health insurance if you don’t have a spouse who provides it.

As a listing agent they have lots of tasks far more than just selling a home.

1. Prepare Listing Presentation for Sellers
2. Research Sellers Property Tax Info
3. Research Comparable Sold Properties for Sellers
4. Determine Average Days on Market
5. Gather Info From Sellers About Their Home
6. Meet With Sellers at Their Home
7. Get To Know Their Home
8. Present Listing Presentation
9. Advise on Repairs and/or Upgrades
10. Provide Home Seller To-Do Checklist
11. Explain Current Market Conditions
12. Discuss Seller’s Goals
13. Share Your Value Proposition
14. Explain Benefits of Your Brokerage
15. Present Your Marketing Options
16. Explain Video Marketing Strategies
17. Demonstrate 3D Tour Marketing
18. Explain Buyer & Seller Agency Relationships
19. Describe the Buyer Pre-Screening Process
20. Create Internal File for Transaction
21. Get Listing Agreement & Disclosures Signed
22. Provide Sellers Disclosure Form to Sellers
23. Verify Interior Room Sizes
24. Obtain Current Mortgage Loan Info
25. Confirm Lot Size from County Tax Records
26. Investigate Any Unrecorded Property Easements
27. Establish Showing Instructions for Buyers
28. Agree on Showing Times with Sellers
29. Discuss Different Types of Buyer Financing
30. Explain Appraisal Process and Pitfalls
31. Verify Home Owners Association Fees
32. Obtain a Copy of HOA Bylaws
33. Gather Transferable Warranties
34. Determine Need for Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
35. Verify Security System Ownership
36. Discuss Video Recording Devices & Showings
37. Determine Property Inclusions & Exclusions
38. Agree on Repairs to Made Before Listing
39. Schedule Staging Consultation
40. Schedule House Cleaners
41. Install Electronic Lockbox & Yard Sign
42. Set-Up Photo/Video Shoot
43. Meet Photographer at Property
44. Prepare Home For Photographer
45. Schedule Drone & 3D Tour Shoot
46. Get Seller’s Approval of All Marketing Materials
47. Input Property Listing Into The MLS
48. Create Virtual Tour Page
49. Verify Listing Data on 3rd Party Websites
50. Have Listing Proofread
51. Create Property Flyer
52. Have Extra Keys Made for Lockbox
53. Set-Up Showing Services
54. Help Owners Coordinate Showings
55. Gather Feedback After Each Showing
56. Keep track of Showing Activity
57. Update MLS Listing as Needed
58. Schedule Weekly Update Calls with Seller
59. Prepare “Net Sheet” For All Offers
60. Present All Offers to Seller
61. Obtain Pre-Approval Letter from Buyer’s Agent
62. Examine & Verify Buyer’s Qualifications
63. Examine & Verify Buyer’s Lender
64. Negotiate All Offers
65. Once Under Contract, Send to Title Company
66. Check Buyer’s Agent Has Received Copies
67. Change Property Status in MLS
68. Deliver Copies of Contact/Addendum to Seller
69. Keep Track of Copies for Office File
70. Coordinate Inspections with Sellers
71. Explain Buyer’s Inspection Objections to Sellers
72. Determine Seller’s Inspection Resolution
73. Get All Repair Agreements in Writing
74. Refer Trustworthy Contractors to Sellers
75. Meet Appraiser at the Property
76. Negotiate Any Unsatisfactory Appraisals
77. Confirm Clear-to-Close
78. Coordinate Closing Times & Location
79. Verify Title Company Has All Docs
80. Remind Sellers to Transfer Utilities
81. Make Sure All Parties Are Notified of Closing Time
82. Resolve Any Title Issues Before Closing
83. Receive and Carefully Review Closing Docs
84. Review Closing Figures With Seller
85. Confirm Repairs Have Been Made
86. Resolve Any Last Minute Issues
87. Attend Seller’s Closing
88. Pick Up Sign & Lock Box
89. Change Status in MLS to “Sold.”
90. Close Out Seller’s File With Brokerage

As a buyers agent they also have many tasks.

1. Schedule Time To Meet Buyers
2. Prepare Buyers Guide & Presentation
3. Meet Buyers and Discuss Their Goals
4. Explain Buyer & Seller Agency Relationships
5. Discuss Different Types of Financing Options
6. Help Buyers Find a Mortgage Lender
7. Obtain Pre-Approval Letter from Their Lender
8. Explain What You Do For Buyers As A Realtor
9. Provide Overview of Current Market Conditions
10. Explain Your Company’s Value to Buyers
11. Discuss Earnest Money Deposits
12. Explain Home Inspection Process
13. Educate Buyers About Local Neighborhoods
14. Discuss Foreclosures & Short Sales
15. Gather Needs & Wants Of Their Next Home
16. Explain School Districts Effect on Home Values
17. Explain Recording Devices During Showings
18. Learn All Buyer Goals & Make A Plan
19. Create Internal File for Buyers Records
20. Send Buyers Homes Within Their Criteria
21. Start Showing Buyers Home That They Request
22. Schedule & Organize All Showings
23. Gather Showing Instructions for Each Listing
24. Send Showing Schedule to Buyers
25. Show Up Early and Prepare First Showing
26. Look For Possible Repair Issues While Showing
27. Gather Buyer Feedback After Each Showing
28. Update Buyers When New Homes Hit the Market
29. Share Knowledge & Insight About Homes
30. Guide Buyers Through Their Emotional Journey
31. Listen & Learn From Buyers At Each Showing
32. Keep Records of All Showings
33. Update Listing Agents with Buyer’s Feedback
34. Discuss Home Owner’s Associations
35. Estimate Expected Utility Usage Costs
36. Confirm Water Source and Status
37. Discuss Transferable Warranties
38. Explain Property Appraisal Process
39. Discuss Multiple Offer Situations
40. Create Practice Offer To Help Buyers Prepare
41. Provide Updated Housing Market Data to Buyers
42. Inform Buyers of Their Showing Activity Weekly
43. Update Buyers On Any Price Drops
44. Discuss MLS Data With Buyers At Showings
45. Find the Right Home for Buyers
46. Determine Property Inclusions & Exclusions
47. Prepare Sales Contract When Buyers are Ready
48. Educate Buyer’s On Sales Contract Options
49. Determine Need for Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
50. Explain Home Warranty Options
51. Update Buyer’s Pre-Approval Letter
52. Discuss Loan Objection Deadlines
53. Choose a Closing Date
54. Verify Listing Data Is Correct
55. Review Comps With Buyers To Determine Value
56. Prepare & Submit Buyer’s Offer to Listing Agent
57. Negotiate Buyers Offer With Listing Agent
58. Execute A Sales Contract & Disclosures
59. Once Under Contract, Send to Title Company
60. Coordinate Earnest Money Drop Off
61. Deliver Copies to Mortgage Lender
62. Obtain Copy of Sellers Disclosure for Buyers
63. Deliver Copies of Contract/Addendum to Buyers
64. Obtain A Copy of HOA Bylaws
65. Keep Track of Copies for Office File
66. Coordinate Inspections with Buyers
67. Meet Inspector At The Property
68. Review Home Inspection with Buyers
69. Negotiate Inspection Objections
70. Get All Agreed Upon Repair Items in Writing
71. Verify any Existing Lease Agreements
72. Check In With Lender To Verify Loan Status
73. Check on the Appraisal Date
74. Negotiate Any Unsatisfactory Appraisals
75. Coordinate Closing Times & Location
76. Make Sure All Documents Are Fully Signed
77. Verify Title Company Has Everything Needed
78. Remind Buyers to Schedule Utilities
79. Make Sure All Parties Are Notified of Closing Time
80. Solve Any Title Problems Before Closing
81. Receive and Review Closing Documents
82. Review Closing Figures With Buyers
83. Confirm Repairs Have Been Made By Sellers
84. Perform Final Walk-Through with Buyers
85. Resolve Any Last Minute Issues
86. Get CDA Signed By Brokerage
87. Attend Closing with Buyers
88. Provide Home Warranty Paperwork
89. Give Keys and Accessories to Buyers
90. Close Out Buyer’s File Brokerage

Whew…exhausting isn’t it!?! 🤯

✨You don't need to buy or sell a home to support your agents real estate business – here are just a few simple ways to show your support!⁣ By sharing one of their listings, sending a friend or family member their way, letting them connect you with agents outside their area for a broker to broker referral, or leaving them a positive comment or review, this helps them feel seen and supported - (thanks to you)! ❤️✨

If you’re a Realtor, please feel free to copy & paste and continue to share this information.

Check out this beauty! 🏡✨ Call or text if you’d like to schedule a showing! 📲509.818.8221

🎉 OFFICIALLY HOMEOWNERS 🎉 I am literally bursting with excitement. These folks started off as clients… now they are really great friends! 🤩 Thank you Randi & Corey for trusting me to help navigate you through the home buying process. There were so many ups and downs, and an enormous amount of moving pieces that we had to hurdle to get to the finish line, but we did it! HUGE shout out to Sam Mikolasy and Kim Nichols with Knight Financial Home Loans for working tirelessly on making sure everything aligned perfectly, your efforts are forever appreciated! CHEERS to all involved who played a part in getting this transaction to the finish line! 🥂🍾

Looking for your own little slice of Paradise?! 🤩 Endless possibilities! Contact me today for your private showing! 📲509.818.8221

1611 E Smythe Rd, Spangle, WA 99031 | MLS# 202316765 | Trulia 1611 E Smythe Rd, Spangle, WA 99031 is a 5 bed, 2 bath Single-Family Home listed for $620,000. Totally remodeled barndominium! Brand new roof, brand new exterior and interior paint, brand new LVP throughout and freshly...

Discover the potential of this investment or equity opportunity with this 2-bed, 1-bath home! Most of the major systems were updated in 2018, which include new electrical wiring, new electric panel box, new high-efficiency gas furnace, new electric hot water heater, new vinyl windows, new bathroom shower & fixtures, living room & kitchen flooring, and new countertops. The roof was re-done in 2013, including new sheathing. 834 sqft. of living space on a 0.12-acre lot, the covered front patio welcomes you in. Low-maintenance metal siding, half a block west of Rogers High School, and a 1-car detached garage with ramp access. Needing only cosmetic updates such as flooring, paint, & updated lights, you can bring this charming home back to life! This home has incredible potential as an ideal starter home or investment property.

Call or text to schedule your showing! 📲509.818.8221

TourFactory Property Site #3074232 $200,000

Today kicks off day one of, “Restaruant Week.” I personally love trying new places and new foods.🤤 Do you have a favorite restaurant that is a must try?!

Inlander Restaurant Week Inlander Restaurant Week. February 24 - March 5, 2022. Ten Delicious days and 100 Inland Northwest Restaurants - all serving 3 Course meals at a fixed price.

🚨Eastern Washington Market Update!🚨

If you enjoy keeping up on Real Estate, this is definitely worth the read.👌

Q4 2022 Eastern Washington Real Estate Market Update What's happening with the Eastern Washington economy and housing market? Read Windermere Chief Economist Matthew Gardner's fourth-quarter analysis.

Are you thinking about buying? Well, you should stop thinking about it and just do it, the time is now. Wind, rain, snow, or shine, I stay ready to go on this journey with you. Let’s go find your dream home.🏡💚

✨Milestones & Gratitude✨

Did you know today marks 1️⃣ year since I transitioned to a full-time Real Estate broker with Windermere Valley?! Wow, time sure flies when you’re having fun. 🎉 For those who don’t know, I have actually been with Windermere since 2018. Let’s just say, I have worn many hats prior to my transition to agent. Thanks to those many hats, I have learned so much and continue to learn as I grow. I mean let’s be real, growth doesn’t happen if you’re not moving up on your success ladder and also moving out of your comfort zone. A wise man once told me, “You have to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.” It’s a work in progress for me. 😅

With that said, 2022 was quite the year! I am so thankful to everyone who supported me and allowed me to navigate them during the buying and/or selling process. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I am beyond excited to see what 2023 has in store! If you have any Real Estate needs, let’s connect. I would be honored to help you too.♥️

Anyone else feel like January flew by?! … Cheers to a fabulous February! ♥️

🚨Market Update🚨

Interest rates have dropped a little and things are definitely starting to pick up. All good signs! 🏡

Your weekly market update! 👏👏 The more you know, the better. If you’d like to chat Real Estate, call or text me anytime. 📲509.818.8221

Who wants to write up an offer?! Call or text me anytime. ☎️509.818.8221

Need to add some investments to your portfolio? Here ya go! FOUR (4) (yes, I said 4!) South Valley Duplexes in the Central Valley School District. To be sold together as a package. Just over a 5% Cap Rate. Rents range from $1600 per month on non updated units to $1900 per month on the updated ones. All units are 3 bedroom 1.5-2 baths. Addresses are 1215/1217 S Progress, 2806/2808 S Bowdish, 3204/3206 S Gillis, 3210/3212 S Gillis. Showings only upon a mutually accepted offer. DO NOT DISTURB OR CONTACT TENANTS. Sellers are both licensed real estate agents in Washington State.

$2,400,000 for all four duplexes

Click here for details:
https://www.homesnap.com/WA/Spokane-Valley/1215-S-Progress-Road?a=352199736

Would you like to know what your home is worth?! I am here to help. One of my services to you is providing a Complimentary Market Analysis of your homes value in our current market. Let’s connect today to get the process started. 📲509.818.8221

🌟OPEN HOUSE🌟

Saturday, January 14th @ 9AM until 11AM! Come by to say hi, I would love to show you around this amazing home! ♥️

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. I am always available to chat. 📲 509.818.8221

Follow this link for more information: https://homesbychristen.com/listings/my-active-listings

🚨 OPEN HOUSE 🚨 Today, 4PM-6PM. Come see me and check out this beautiful home! 🏡♥️

If you have any questions feel free to reach out anytime. ☎️509.818.8221

This must-see beautifully maintained Northwood Rancher is ready for its new owners! Situated on a cul de sac, you will enjoy the peace and quiet while you relax on your patio or back deck. Also, the low maintenance landscaping is a huge plus. This home is in close proximity to schools, and just minutes to all that the Millwood community has to offer. The layout of the home creates great natural lighting throughout. Main floor has 3 bed, 2 bath, large kitchen, and laundry room. Primary bedroom features a full bath w/ double sinks and walk in closet. Daylight walkout basement has an additional 2 bed, 1 bath, storage room and large open family room, great for entertaining! Don't miss out on this one, schedule your showing today!

For more info, follow this link: https://homesbychristen.com/listings/my-active-listings

Spectacular Northwood beauty on a quiet cul de sac! 4918 N Elton Ln This is "Spectacular Northwood beauty on a quiet cul de sac! 4918 N Elton Ln" by Everyday I’m HOVERIN’ on Vimeo, the home for high quality…

💥 OPEN HOUSE 💥 Saturday 11AM-1PM! Come say hi, I’d love to show you around. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. ☎️ 509.818.8221

For more information, follow this link: https://homesbychristen.com/listings/my-active-listings

Inventory is up a little and interest rates are down a little. 👏👏 If you’re looking to buy a new home or sell your current home, it’s a great time to start the process. Let’s connect to get you going on the right path. 📲509.818.8221

Good stuff!

Too good not to share! 🤣

Wishing everyone a day full of love, happiness, and blessings! Happy Holidays! 🎄🥰♥️

“A house is built of boards and beams, a home is built of love and dreams!” ~Author Unknown

How would you like to call this place home?! It’s ready, bring us an offer! ♥️

Listed at💲556,000
🛏️ 5 Bedrooms (3 upstairs, 2 downstairs)
🛁 3 Full Bathrooms (2 upstairs, 1 downstairs)
🚗 2 Car Garage
🏠 3002 sq ft
📏 .23 acre lot
❄️ Central AC
🔥 Gas Fireplace
…… and so much more!

For more information and pictures, follow this link: https://homesbychristen.com/listings/my-active-listings

🚨 PRICED TO SELL 🚨

Price drop to $555,900 - that’s a steal of a deal! Bring us an offer! 😊

This must-see beautifully maintained Northwood Rancher is ready for its new owners! Situated on a cul de sac, you will enjoy the peace and quiet while you relax on your patio or back deck. Also, the low maintenance landscaping is a huge plus. This home is in close proximity to schools, and just minutes to all that the Millwood community has to offer. The layout of the home creates great natural lighting throughout. Main floor has 3 bed, 2 bath, large kitchen, and laundry room. Primary bedroom features a full bath w/ double sinks and walk in closet. Daylight walkout basement has an additional 2 bed, 1 bath, storage room and large open family room, great for entertaining! Don't miss out on this one, schedule your showing today! ☎️ 509.818.8221

For more info, follow this link: https://homesbychristen.com/listings/my-active-listings

Spectacular Northwood beauty on a quiet cul de sac! 4918 N Elton Ln This is "Spectacular Northwood beauty on a quiet cul de sac! 4918 N Elton Ln" by Everyday I’m HOVERIN’ on Vimeo, the home for high quality…

🔥Motivated Sellers - $15K Price Drop!🔥

Agents bring me a buyer, this is a steal of a deal! 🙌

If you don’t have an agent, feel free to call or text to schedule your private showing. 📲 509-818-8221

This must-see beautifully maintained Northwood Rancher is ready for its new owners! Situated on a cul de sac, you will enjoy the peace and quiet while you relax on your patio or back deck. Also, the low maintenance landscaping is a huge plus. This home is in close proximity to schools, and just minutes to all that the Millwood community has to offer. The layout of the home creates great natural lighting throughout. Main floor has 3 bed, 2 bath, large kitchen, and laundry room. Primary bedroom features a full bath w/ double sinks and walk in closet. Daylight walkout basement has an additional 2 bed, 1 bath, storage room and large open family room, great for entertaining! Welcome home!

For more information and pictures, follow this link:
https://homesbychristen.com/listings/my-active-listings

Check out this stunning Liberty Lake home! ♥️ If you’re interested in a private viewing, call or text me today. ☎️ 509.818.8221

Immaculate Legacy Ridge Rancher! 67 S Legacy Ridge Rd This is "Immaculate Legacy Ridge Rancher! 67 S Legacy Ridge Rd" by Everyday I’m HOVERIN’ on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the…