The Savvy Realtor with Angie Cole

The NAR Settlement: What You Need to Know

Effective August 6, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement introduces new regulations that will impact how real estate transactions are conducted. Angie Cole explains that the settlement stems from a lawsuit where a seller claimed they were forced to pay the buying agent's commission. The outcome has led to two major changes: commissions can no longer be listed in the MLS database, and real estate agents must have a signed buyer agency agreement before showing a property.
Find out more about how these changes impact you, whether you are looking to buy or sell a house in the near future!
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
What regulations will be implemented due to the NAR settlement.
Media misconceptions regarding the settlement changes.
Mailbag: Saving for land purchases?
Mailbag: What first-time homebuyers should know about urban areas?  
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

What’s Happening Lately in Real Estate

What’s the latest in the real estate market? From summertime home sales in the Triangle to national news headlines, Angie shares her insight on what’s happening and what to expect. Whether you are renting and want to know more about recent rental rate proposals or are looking to sell at the right time, there’s something in this episode for you.
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Triangle market update: what to look for this summer and year.
Potential rental rate regulations.
Timing your home sale alongside school schedules.
Mailbag: How reliable are home estimates from mortgage lenders?
Mailbag: What to focus on when investing in real estate?
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

How to Avoid Real Estate Scams

When buying a home, there are a lot of red flags to watch out for, especially if you are unfamiliar with an area. One concern some home buyers have is falling victim to scams. Angie finds that scams are more prevalent in land purchases, where scammers pose as landowners to quickly pocket due diligence money. To prevent this, Angie advises always working with a reputable real estate company and ensuring thorough verification processes are in place. Listen in as she and Walter discuss this and some other real estate scams to be aware of.
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
How often do people fall for real estate scams?
What common real estate scams are there?
Mailbag: Where can I live lakefront in NC?
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Insider Tips for Navigating the Triangle Real Estate Market

On today’s podcast, Angie answers listener questions about the real estate market in the Triangle area. Find out how long homes in the Kitts Creek neighborhood in Morrisville typically stay on the market, tips for first-time homebuyers in the competitive under $400,000 range, and what to look out for when buying a home with a $1 million budget. Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to a luxury property, Angie provides valuable insights to help you navigate the process.
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Mailbag: How long do homes in Kitts Creek typically stay on the market?
Mailbag: How do first-time homebuyers win homes?
Mailbag: What to look out for when you have a $1 million budget for buying a home.
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Habits Of Successful Homebuyers

Buying a home can be one of the most exciting yet challenging experiences in life. In a competitive real estate market, it’s crucial to adopt the right habits to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. In today’s podcast, Angie shares invaluable tips for homebuyers so you know what to do when the time comes.
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Get your finances straight.
Do your homework.
Get pre-approved.
Know what you want.
Check expectations.
Bid smart.
Use experts.
Take your time.
Keep learning.
Stay calm!
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Mailbag: Selling During the Summer

As we near the 4th of July and people hit the beach over the summer, you may be wondering what kind of impact that has on selling a house. Angie answers one listener question about this to share what listing a home the first week of July could look like. Regardless of when you list your home, make sure it’s prepped and ready to show potential buyers!
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Mailbag: Should I avoid listing near the 4th of July because of the holiday?
Mailbag: Should I wait for interest rates to drop to buy a home?
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

2024 Summer Buyer and Seller Guide

As we enter the summer season, we check in with Angie to hear what the real estate market in North Carolina's Triangle area is looking like. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, understanding the current trends and unique factors at play can give you a significant advantage.
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
What are the significant changes in buyer or seller behavior this year?
Should buyers and sellers keep their eye on any economic indicators this summer?
What has it looked like since the NAR settlement?
What impact did the MLS merger have?
What has happened with 3D tours?
What does Angie recommend for those considering a relocation?
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Mailbag: How Can I Make My House Stand Out?

As you go to sell a house, you want to make sure your house is going to catch the attention of buyers! Dale in Raleigh wants to know how to make his house stand out from others that are similar and also for sale in his neighborhood. Angie suggests how to price, stage, market, and prepare your home for the best-case scenario when you sell.
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Mailbag: How do I make my house unique?
Mailbag: What’s it like to invest in real estate?
Mailbag: How do I know how much home I can afford?
Mailbag: How will our renovations impact the resale value of our home?
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/
 

Avoiding Buyer’s Remorse

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make, and it comes with its fair share of excitement and anxiety. The thrill of finding your dream home can sometimes overshadow the practical considerations that ensure you're making the right choice. But what happens when the dust settles and buyer's remorse creeps in?
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Three out of four homebuyers have at least one regret about home they purchased.
Some homes require too much maintenance.
Home size wasn’t right.
Wrong location causes regret.
Home environment considerations shouldn’t be overlooked.
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Mailbag: How Do I Increase the Marketability of My Home?

If you are getting ready to buy or sell a home, there are a lot of things to think about! Angie answers a few questions from the mailbag as people start to prepare for the process. Bart asks how to make his home more marketable for buyers. How it looks online makes a big difference as that’s the first impression homebuyers get!
 
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Mailbag: How can I increase the marketability of my home?
Is the marketability process the same for online vs. in-person showings?
Mailbag: What are the important questions I should ask potential realtors?
 
Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/