Big Island

Being the Quarterback

Nothing is more American than the spirit of self-reliance but trying to quarterback the largest transaction of your life can actually find you throwing passes right into the hands of the opposing team. Statistics show that you can cost yourself time, effort, and certainly money by attempting to do so.

Going Pro

The majority of homes sold are still listed with an agent, especially here in Hawai`i. With so many buyers from off-island, it’s unrealistic to believe buyers have time, patience or motivation to drive miles and miles of roads scouting “For Sale” signs. With a limited amount of time in which to conclude their purchase, they want to make wise use of their time. After one disappointing experience visiting a home listed in the newspaper or posted on Craigslist (watch out for scammers), most buyers flock right back to an agent.

Motivation alone should leave buyers and sellers with serious doubts about proceeding without professional assistance. Keep in mind:

  • Sellers normally desire to “save” the commission or worse, they may be attempting to hide defects, or get around the State owner-builder regulations.
  • Buyers are looking for sellers representing themselves because they generally feel it’s a good way to get a bargain basement price. They are looking for a “deal”. In other words, there is simply no common ground from which to achieve a “meeting of the minds”. 
  • Sellers normally find themselves wasting precious marketing time placing ineffective advertising and showing the home to unqualified buyers.
  • Interested buyers usually find themselves unable to interact honestly with a seller about their property or are so unsure of themselves that they back away. 

The MVP

Interestingly, two of my favorite magazines are the Elk’s and AARP. A recent issue (I believe AARP) spoke to just this issue (being our own Quarterback). Guess how the sellers determined how much their home was worth? They asked an agent or agents.

Hopefully, they were kind enough to pay the agent for their time and expertise (and access to the appropriate data). Part of the value proposition a licensed real estate agent brings to the table is taking attributes of a property into consideration in order to arrive at a reasonable value. Attorneys don’t work for free, and neither should real estate professionals. Shame on a seller who expects us to do so.

So, if getting across the “sold” line is your goal, hire a professional quarterback. Just like the big guys, we’re extremely motivated for you to win in the biggest of all financial transactions!

About the Author

Denise Nakanishi

Denise Nakanishi is a REALTOR Broker with Hawai'i Life. Denise Nakanishi is one of Hilo's most acclaimed real estate agents. She reached the rank of Major in the US Army and is now known by many as "Major Mom." The nickname fits–not only does Denise bring the discipline and mission-oriented attitude you'd expect, she's also caring and compassionate, always looking out for her clients like they're her own family. Having made the Big Island her home since 1987, Denise combines her extensive knowledge of the area with a sharp focus on customer service and the results speak for themselves. She's the recent recipient of the Best East Hawai`i, Best of Zillow, Chairman's Circle Award, President's Circle, Top Producing Agent since 2001, and Realtor of the Year awards. Denise stays ahead of the curve because she's passionate about education–she served as Education Chair for Hawaii Island REALTORS® for many years. She's one of Big Island's best real estate resources, known for her weekly article in the Hawaii Tribune Herald. Denise leads Team Nakanishi for Hawai`i Life, who is committed to their family, work, and community. In her little time away from work, Denise is a committed runner and Grandy. She also devotes many hours to various Veterans' Organizations, the East Hawaii Cultural Center, and the Hawaii Island REALTORS®. You can email me at denise@hawaiilife.com or via phone at (808) 936-5100.

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