Jim Downing

I'm a:	Real Estate Professional
Company:	Coldwell Banker
Location:	Washington
Web sites:	DC Real Estate News
	Search the MLS Database
Phone:	703.244.3971

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About Me

I am a Licensed REALTOR and Accredited Buyers Representative in the Washington DC Metro area. I work in Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland.

My specialties include helping First-Time Home Buyers and People Relocating in and out of the Washington DC area.

Please let me know how I may help you in your next more - or if you simply have a Real Estate question!

James T. Downing
REALTOR, ABR
Licensed in Maryland, Virginia & Washington DC

703.244.3971 Direct
Jim@JimDowning.com Email http://www.JimKnowsDC.com

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
5028 Wisconsin Ave NW
Suite 100
Washington DC 20016
202-362-5800 Main Office
Licensed in DC,MD,VA

Testimonials

"Thank you for everything. I knew I could count on you for your professionalism, quick resolutions and to go out of your way to get things done. It really meant a lot to me. Thanks so much!"
Lise Tue Dec 4, 2007

"It was a pleasure working on this transaction with you. You were so organized and prompt with everything. Thank you and we hope to do business with you again."
Pat; Coldwell Banker Tue Nov 20, 2007

"Thanks again for getting my condo sold so fast, especially since the market was so bad right now, I feel lucky to have found you to help me!"
B. Plemons Thu Nov 1, 2007

"I am so so glad you were my Realtor. You helped me every step of the way. I had no idea how many details there were to the whole process. Thanks again!"
E. Thurston Wed Aug 1, 2007

"Jim-- a huge thank you for being a terrific realtor and guiding us so well. The whole experience was a pleasure and we enjoyed our time together. We raise our glasses to you and again say thank you for everything."
Jill & Steve Sun May 20, 2007

"Thank you for your hard work and dedication. I will call you again and sent any friends I have your way."
S. Jossell Wed Sep 20, 2006

"This was the first home buying experience for both of us and James walked us through the entire process from start to finish. To ensure that we understood every aspect of the home buying experience, James took the time to learn more about us as individuals so that he could mold his search qeuery specifically to our needs/wants. James helped ease many of the questions and uncertainties we had as first time home buyers and remained professional throughout. We truly felt like more than just a client with James. To this day we drop his name to all friends and family searching in the capital region."
M. Johnson Sun Aug 20, 2006

"It was very comforting to work with you and that meant a lot to me. Thanks for all your help and the priority you must have given to selling the apartment. I will certainly consult with you for any future real estate needs and recommend you to people I know. Again, thank for your professional, customer oriented services."
E. Jones Thu Mar 15, 2007

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Jim Downing's Questions (0)

Jim Downing's Answers (113)

The sellers want to strike the line on the home inspection and radon testing addendum for the notice voiding

Asked Mon Nov 10 2008, 08:56 by Vicky - Virginia - Home Buying - 4 answers

Jim Downing answered:

You need to consult your agent as to the best strategy for you. I would want to know why they want to strike this? Perhaps they feel the agreed upon price is so good; that they do not wish to see a further reduction in price. Perhaps they are afraid of what the inspector may find.

One idea which you may use to help you: Get a Home Warranty - and make sure it covers pre-existing conditions. - Mon Nov 10 2008, 10:02

What is the complete process on buying a Short Sale? When is the inspection done and appraisal needed?

Asked Fri Nov 7 2008, 08:09 by Jodi Gab - Falls Church - Home Buying - 5 answers

Jim Downing answered:

Jodi- Good questions. The biggest different is it takes MUCH MUCH longer. You can expect 60 to 90 days for an answer from the bank. I advise not having inspections or appraisals done until the bank has approved the sale - and for 2 very good reasons. 1) Why should you pay for these things when the bank may say "NO". 2) More importantly - a lot can happen with both the value and the property condition while you wait those couple of months.
For more information; feel free to email or call me directly. - Fri Nov 7 2008, 08:35

Question removed

Asked Mon Nov 3 2008, 17:03 by Kimberly - 20018 - Home Buying - 8 answers

Jim Downing answered:

Kimbery- That last answer is exactly right. Having a Buyers Agent is in your best interest and the commission is typically always paid by the seller.
Listing Agents, by law, represent the seller. If you call on a home and the listing agent shows it to you; they are representing the seller. While the must be honest and fair to you; they are not looking out for your best interest.

In DC and Virginia (not in Maryland), agent may represent both the buyer and seller in the transaction. While this is completely legal; I do not practice this (it is called Dual Agency). I will only represent one party in any one transaction at a time.

When a Listing Agent represents both sides; they get "both sides" of the commission - which is normally twice as much.

I always suggest using a Buyers Agent. Please visit my blog for details. - Mon Nov 3 2008, 17:37

How do I apply?

Asked Thu Oct 30 2008, 12:36 by Swhite - Fort Washington - Home Buying - 6 answers

Jim Downing answered:

Yes, the 1st answer is correct. FHA is currently requiring 3% down payment; which increases to 3.5% Jan 1st. - Thu Oct 30 2008, 12:52

short sale multiple offers

Asked Thu Oct 9 2008, 08:04 by Susan - Woodbridge - Home Buying - 3 answers

Jim Downing answered:

This is a mess. First of all; you can only have ONE "ratified" contract on a home at a time. The sellers cannot sell the home to 2 or 3 people; with or without the banks approval.

Banks seldom care about who is first or second - they care about the money. It sounds like you need to ask your agent about their experience with short sales and I would ask them how there can be multiple "ratified" contracts on 1 house!

Good luck - Thu Oct 9 2008, 08:26

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