Just Sold: A Beautiful 3BR Townhome in St. Petersburg for $395,000
A Pleasant Surprise: Assisting a First-Time Homebuyer and Ongoing Clients
My day took an unexpected turn when I received a call from a familiar number. Initially, I thought the call was from one of my clients about the new construction home they were under contract for—a project I was already deeply involved in as their Realtor.
However, to my pleasant surprise, the call was about their son, Nicholas. They sought my expertise to guide him through his first home-buying journey. This dual engagement—assisting seasoned clients with their new home while looking to find the perfect first home for their son—was an honor and a testament to the trust they placed in my services.
Understanding Needs: The Quest for the Perfect Home
In my conversations with Nicholas, I wanted to know what he wanted in his first home. His budget, around $400,000, posed a challenge in the Tampa Bay market, but I was determined to find a property that met his needs and expectations. With a pre-approval letter in hand from my trusted lender Didier Malagies, we set off on our adventure to find Nicholas's dream home.
Exploring Options: Townhomes and Houses
Our search was broad, exploring properties from townhomes to single-family homes. Nicholas was open to looking in both Tampa and St. Petersburg, which broadened our search significantly. It was during this house-hunting phase that we discovered a property that stood out among the rest.
The Perfect Match: A Newer 3BR Townhome
We found a newer 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome that seemed to tick all the boxes for Nicholas. Located in a welcoming community, it featured a one-car garage, a community pool, and tennis courts. Nicholas's parents, already deep in the process of their own home purchase, joined us to view the property and shared in the excitement. They agreed that this townhome was the perfect fit for their son.
Sealing the Deal: Negotiations and Closing
The negotiation process was handled with expertise and finesse, but was tough. We were over budget on this townhome listed at $412,000, and I was tasked with making the deal happen at or under budget.
The sellers weren’t sure about lowering the price. They appreciated our interest, but we're weighing the option of leaving it on the market and maybe making a little more money on the sale.
After a few friendly reminders of what it means to have a buyer vs. the “maybe” of the market, we landed on an agreed purchase price of $395,000. The following steps, including the home inspection, appraisal, and loan approval, were managed with the utmost care. I was there at every step, ensuring that both transactions—for Nicholas's townhome and his parents' new construction home—progressed smoothly.
Celebrating Success: A Milestone for Nicholas
This experience was more than just a successful sale; it was a milestone for Nicholas and a reaffirmation of the lasting relationships I built with my clients. Over my 38-year career, helping families navigate these significant life changes has been both a privilege and a joy.
Looking Ahead: Ready to Assist in 2024
As we step into 2024, my dedication to providing top-tier real estate services remains stronger than ever. Whether you're a first-time buyer, navigating the new construction process, or seeking to sell your property, I am here to offer my expertise and support. If you or someone you know needs a Realtor who is committed to making your real estate dreams come true, feel free to reach out.
Kevin Freel, your partner in making pivotal life moments memorable.
Realtor since 1985
Phone: 727-410-8599