Real Estate With Matthew Fernandes
We’re excited to begin a weekly real estate column featuring one of Toronto’s expert realtors, Matthew Fernandes. He will answer questions regarding buying and selling properties, as well as provide his insight into the current real estate market. Matthew has been licensed with Sutton Group Realty for over six years. He has won multiple awards, including the Sutton Platinum Award.
To begin our series, we asked Matthew to outline for first time homebuyers the best attributes to look for when hiring an agent. Here is his top five:
1) Comfortable and approachable
Matthew suggests setting up an initial meeting with a potential agent, for example at their office or a local coffee shop, to determine if s/he is the right person for the job. You should feel that the agent is attentive and focused on your needs, and encourages you to ask questions. “I am with my clients every step of the way, allowing them to choose the best option for them. By getting to know each of my clients, I can better understand what they need and how to get it for them.” Matthew adds that your agent should be available any time of day to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
2) Experience in helping first time homebuyers
Matthew encourages potential homebuyers, especially those purchasing for the first time, to ask agents for references and testimonials. They should have nothing to hide. The best way to determine how an agent works is by asking those who’ve seen him/her in action. Good agents have been in business for a while, are active agents, and know the current trends. Matthew adds, “ Real estate trends change every month so it’s important to hire an agent who is actively working in your neighbourhood. Your agent should be familiar with the current trends and market in your area.”
3) Well-connected in the real estate community
Matthew attests that great agents connect their clients to the best mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and lawyers, who will all help ensure a smooth and strong deal for their clients. Your agent should also work well with other agents, because, as Matthew points out, “sometimes opportunities for homes happen before they are listed. I work in an office that does volume. Our office does thousands of transactions every year. We build and foster relationships with agents from all over the city, allowing us to stay current on many listings even before they come onto the market”.
4) Full-time and available every time of day
Sometimes the best deals are made when everyone else is working or asleep. Agents should be accessible and willing to go the extra mile for their client. Matthew describes a recent deal for one of his buyer clients. “In this extra heated real estate market, it is important to be one of the first with an offer or you’ll most likely be in competition. The other day, I showed one of my clients a home that just came onto the market. They really liked it so I made sure to present an offer that night to avoid competition with any other potential buyers. The deal was accepted and finalized that night. Yes, we all stayed up until 1am but we avoided competition and managed to secure an excellent price for the property.” Your agent should work diligently to ensure the best possible outcome for you.
5) Client motivated
You want an agent whose ultimate goal is to provide you with the best possible service. S/he gives his/her honest opinion and does not pressure you into buying a property you are not comfortable with. Matthew provides his clients with a list of comparables and statistics of properties they are interested in purchasing. He ensures that they are making the decision and satisfied with the choice they make. “If my clients are not seeing inventory that reflects their needs, I have gone door knocking to find potential sellers, to be able to show my clients everything I possibly can, even if it is not currently on the market. This year, by canvassing a desired building for my clients, I was able to find them a 1,600 square foot penthouse suite that was not listed on MLS, which they fell in love with and purchased”. Great agents go above and beyond for their clients.
If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling a property, Matthew Fernandes is more than happy to meet and sit down to discuss yours and their needs.
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