Cathi Weaver

Hi Gina,

I would recommend beginning the process of selling your townhome first before looking for homes. I don't think it is a matter of whether or not it is a financial advantage per se, but practical. If you find something you really like and then start the process of trying to sell your place, you may miss out on getting it.

I usually have my clients who are selling and buying with me just look online at the listings I send based on the criteria they gave me. Then they can get a feel for what is out there and what might meet their needs. There is more to the process, but once we get an offer on a property is when we begin actually looking at homes. I do have to mention though, that in my case, I don't run my clients out to everything that's out there...after they've chosen properties and then driven around the areas in which they are located, I preview the homes for them and then bring them the select ones based on discussions we've had that I feel best suits their needs. It makes things more efficient for my clients and me. So, at this point a lot of homework has been done and they are ready to move fast but not feel overwhelmed.

All of this to say: Get your place on first, price it with a compelling price, get set up to receive listings and start getting an idea of what you want and where you want to live.

As far as viewing properties in person, you can either call the agent who has listed the property or get an agent to take you through the property. Be aware though that if you are being shown the property by the person listing the home, they represent the seller. So, don't give them information that may come back to hurt you if you put in an offer.

Feel free to contact me if I can help you with your real estate needs! I work the GE, Wheaton area quite a bit (buyers and sellers) and also go an hour radius from O'Hare.

Cathi Weaver
Keller Williams Realty Partners
847-477-3494 - Tue Oct 20 2009, 19:05