Hank Miller

Understanding Real Estate Data

Atlanta home buyers receive a major benefit of working with Hound Dog, Hank is both a broker and an active certified appraiser. This allows for analysis of a significant amount of data that is utilized and explained in a very clear manner. The distinct client advantage is that the data is considered from the appraiser’s perspective, not an agent’s. This closes the chronic gap between agents and appraisers; the one that sees the typical agent focused on what is convenient and appraisers focused on the data. This also reduces the chance for appraisal issues; collecting and analyzing the data as the appraiser will allows for better discussion with that appraiser should issues arise.

A detailed review of a property in the current market requires more than one resource, the MLS is simply inadequate to use as a decision making foundation. Most agents either don’t or can’t use additional resources and this is a major handicap for their clients. Our clients will see data from a multitude of sales, appraisal and independent research sources. These include but are not limited to:

FMLS and MLS, Redlink, Realist, Altos Research, ChartMasters, Smart Numbers, Real Valuator, Smart Data Appraisal Research, Map Merge, Public Records and more.

Before any contract is written, a systematic process is used to collect, analyze and explain the data to the client. Everything is presented in an easy to follow written form with supporting data. The process is repeated with counteroffers, detailed discussions and strategies are reviewed. There isn’t a “standard” packet or process as each property is unique and some data sources may not apply, but the end result is always the same – a confident decision by the client that is supported by the data, not baseless agent opinion.

The growth of the internet has changed forever how information is gathered and how people make decisions, if we’re not there yet we’re certainly approaching the “information overload” point. Inapplicable or too much information is as bad as too little; we have internet doctors, lawyers and real estate agents. Purchasing real estate remains a highly personal decision and while it’s critical to treat it as a business, practically speaking a significant part of it remains emotional. It’s going to be a long time before the market and economy stabilizes and this soft market is the “new norm”. It should be obvious at this time that appreciation is not guaranteed, buyers must understand this.

The collected data must be properly analyzed, kept in perspective and applied to the client’s individual situation. All the data in the world is of no use unless it’s properly broken down, understood and applied to the individual situation. Buyers approaching a home purchase with the correct expectations, financial stability and confidence in their agent will pleased with the opportunities available. Those that are not properly prepared or work with inexperienced or ineffective agents are likely to have an unpleasant experience.

Ours is a simple mission; to ensure that every client understands the process, understands the data and acts with confidence. Hit the images below to see two brief examples of “pre-offer briefs sent to buyers ahead of writing offers. These are reviewed together and the strategy prepared.

Once an offer is in play, the same level of research and analysis is applied to the counter offers – again the goal is a buyer client that acts with the highest degree of confidence possible. Click the image for a sample.

Anyone can be sold a home; we don’t sell, we counsel and advise.  Please feel free to contact us VIA EMAIL or by phone at 678-428-8276 with any questions.