Download my services for buyers

BUILDING COMMUNITY
ONE HOME AT A TIME
MY SERVICES FOR BUYERS
Making the Purchase with Ease
Office: (206) 352-4752
Cell: (206) 790-0081
[email protected]
www.JamieFlaxman.com
REALTOR ® | Broker
CNE, SRES
ABOUT JAMIE
REALTOR® with more than 25 years experience in
real estate sales, non-profit management, marketing,
social work, and customer service.
 Seattle resident since 1992 and a homeowner since 1995. First owned a condo in
Magnolia, where I was active in my homeowner's association including stints as
treasurer and president. Since that time I have owned homes in the Meadowbrook,
Queen Anne, and Phinney Ridge communities, the latter of which I currently live in
with my teenage son.
 Active with numerous community organizations, including the Pancreatic Cancer
Action Network, FamilyWorks Family Resource Center & Food Bank, and Ingraham
High School. Prior to becoming a real estate broker, I was in non-profit management,
including with Wallingford Boys & Girls Club, Seattle Youth Involvement Network,
Hilltop Children's Center, Big Sisters of King County, and SCAN-TV. I also worked as
a consultant with a host of other non-profits, primarily focused on the well-being of
children, families, and women in our community.
 Accredited Buyers Representative, Certified Negotiation Expert and Seniors Real Estate
Specialist. Member of National Association of Realtors, Seattle-King County
Association of Realtors, and Northwest Multiple Listing Service.
RESUME
Jamie Flaxman, REALTOR®, CNE, SRES
REALTOR® with more than 25 years experience in real estate sales, non-profit management, marketing, social work,
and customer service.
Professional Experience
Real Estate
Coldwell Banker Bain – Lake Union
REALTOR®
Non-Profit Management & Consulting
Self-Employed
Seattle Community Access Network (SCAN)
Hilltop Children’s Center
Boys & Girls Clubs of King County
Seattle Youth Involvement Network
Women’s Funding Alliance
Grantwriter/Consultant
Director of Development & Marketing
Business Director
Branch Executive Director
Executive Director
Development Manager
Clinical Social Work
Big Sisters of King County
Big Sisters of Los Angeles
North Los Angeles County Regional Center
Program Coordinator, Quality Assurance
Clinical Social Worker
Counselor
Specialized Expertise, Professional Affiliations, and Community Involvement
Accredited Buyers Representative
National Association of Realtors
Certified Negotiation Expert
National Association of Realtors
FamilyWorks Family Resource Center & Food Bank Board Vice-President and Annual Dinner Co-Chair
Ingraham High School
Volunteer with Auction Committee and Robotics Team
Licensed Real Estate Broker, WA State
License # 108873
Northwest Multiple Listing Service
Member
National Association of Realtors
Member
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
Volunteer
Seniors Real Estate Specialist
National Association of Realtors
Education
Master of Public Administration
Master of Social Work
Bachelor of Arts
Graduate School of Public Affairs, University of Washington
School of Social Work, University of Pennsylvania
University of California San Diego
TESTIMONIALS
“We worked with Jamie for about 4 months while searching for our first house as a young couple.
We had a set budget in mind and knew the area we wanted to live in, but did not know much about
the home buying process. Jamie, from the beginning, was not only quick to respond to our
questions, but sought out houses that matched our style and showed us some that had potential.
We ended up putting down several offers on various houses and my husband and I both felt like
Jamie was quick to put together the offers and was not afraid to negotiate for our terms. She is a
fun, knowledgeable and trustworthy person to work with and we never felt any pressure to buy a
house that wasn't exactly what we were looking for. When we finally found the perfect house for
us, Jamie worked with our lender to get us a quick closing date so we could move in ASAP. We
would definitely recommend Jamie to our family and friends who are looking to buy or sell their
home and look forward to working with her again in the future! “ - Chet & Lindsay K.
——————————————————————“My first time buying experience was far easier & faster than I expected, and that was due in part to
Jamie's help. Jamie is a very proactive and knowledgeable agent who will anticipate your needs &
wants to bring you viable options within your price range and other parameters. . . . She is also very
responsive to emails, texts and calls at all hours of the day and evening. I felt very at ease with
Jamie throughout the whole process and was very comfortable asking her any and all questions
relating to the process and paperwork. I highly recommend Jamie as a buyer's agent as she seems to
really enjoy her work. The enthusiasm she brought to the process made things a little more fun and
exciting.” - Anna D.
——————————————————————“I was very pleased to be able to work with Jamie. She is an exceptional person and has great
integrity in dealing with people.” - Kavonne W.
——————————————————————“Jamie is a pleasure to work with. She is very detail oriented as well as being very organized. She
will represent any client well!” - Julia Eaton Harford, Axia Home Loans
——————————————————————“Jamie is great to work with. She provides wonderful customer service and a willingness to go
beyond the scope of the task to ensure that the customer needs are met. She has been a great
source of knowledge and information for me and my family in our real estate planning and needs.”
– Dian F.
CERTIFICATIONS
I Understand What Buyers Need and Want
I have achieved the certification from the National Association of Realtors of Accredited
Buyers Representative.
Being an Accredited Buyers Representative signifies that I represent buyer-clients in real
estate transactions with integrity and honesty, and provide the quality of service and degree
of fidelity to buyers that sellers have customarily enjoyed.
I Understand the Secret of Power Negotiating
I have achieved the certification from the National Association of Realtors of Certified
Negotiation Expert.
For buyers, I will deliver your offer personally to the Seller and their Broker. I will negotiate
to your benefit! A face-to-face presentation by me on your behalf will also ensure that you
get the best price and terms!
There is no other way to represent your best interest.
I Understand the Unique Needs of Seniors
I have achieved the certification from the National Association of Realtors of Seniors Real
Estate Specialist.
No matter what the transition, I can help you with downsizing and/or upsizing. I know the
many challenges seniors face in buying and selling a home, and have the community
resources to help you through the often emotional and overwhelming process. If you’re not
connected to the Internet or email, I’ll work with you through more in-person meetings and
phone calls.
WHY WORK WITH JAMIE
I pride myself on creating long lasting relationships with my clients and my utmost goal is to
help you make wise real estate purchasing and selling decisions. In doing this, I have to be
honest, forthright, and sometimes point out negative things you may not see. This is all done
to help you achieve the goal of making a wise real estate decisions.
I’ll offer you the highest level of service by getting to know you and what your individual
goals are. I will also provide you with an in-depth analysis of what is realistic in today’s
market, taking into consideration your needs, your timeline and the next step in your future.
I offer personal service and believe communication is the key to working together as a team.
I make the home buying process enjoyable for you by providing you with a hassle-free
buying experience, by reducing your stress and worry, and by ensuring you are comfortable
with the process.
Once you have made the decision to sell your home, I will help you with all aspects of the
sale, from preparing the home for market to helping you with packing and moving, if
needed. Regardless of how long this may take, I will never rush you and we’ll take as much
time as you need. Even after we have found the perfect buyer, accepted an offer and closed
the transaction, I will not forget about you. I will stay in touch with you for years to come
providing you with up to day Real Estate reports, articles, and information.
The key to my success is your success.
SERVICES FOR BUYERS
When it comes time to buy a home, finding the right home, in the right neighborhood, at a
cost that fits your budget, it is not an easy job.
I am a licensed experienced professional with specialized skills. Here are the many benefits
you receive when working me:
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I know the local market and can focus on the areas that have the greatest possibilities
for finding a home at the right price
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To save you time, I will organize, expedite, and gather the appropriate documents you
need. Homes that don’t meet your specific needs are removed from your potential
options.
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I will make appointments, accompany you to previews, and help you determine which
homes best fit your needs.
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I have access to the multiple listing service (MLS), a service that provides access to
thousands of homes for sale.
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I have strong relationships with mortgage lenders, escrow companies, and title
companies. Through my affiliation with Coldwell Banker Bain, we have partnerships
with Axia Home Loans, Escrow Professionals of Washington, and Rainier Title.
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When you find the right home to buy, I will guide you through the negotiation
process, the inspection process, and all other details that follow.
The Buying Process has many different steps. It is not simply a matter of finding a house,
writing an offer on it, taking money to closing, and moving in. There are many important
steps that must be adhered to—listed below are the most important ones. It is my job to
orchestrate the successful execution of each one of these steps:
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I provide you with a list of homes in area of interest.
I open the doors so you can inspect every home first hand.
I continue until I find the home that is right for you.
I provide you with detailed information.
I counsel you so you can make informed decisions.
I prepare a complete Purchase and Sale Agreement for your approval.
I negotiate directly with Seller and Broker on your behalf.
I negotiate to your benefit in every situation.
I open escrow and deposit earnest money for you.
I find and help secure the best possible financing.
I order and coordinate all inspection needed or required.
I explain the findings of all inspections.
I monitor the progress of your escrow DAILY!
I communicate regularly with you during escrow.
I oversee every detail involved in your new home purchase.
I make sure every "i" is dotted, every "t" is crossed.
I make sure that your escrow closes on time.
I explain all escrow and other documents involved.
I hand you the keys to your new home.
I check in with you in case there are any surprises.
I continue to communicate with you forever.
I handle all of your friends and family real estate needs.
I personally provide your referrals these same services.
I ask you to grade me on my services.
I want to be your real estate broker for life!
SERVICE COVERAGE AREA
I can help you with your home purchase no matter where you live. While I primarily work
in the greater Seattle area, my real estate license allows me to help you with a transaction
anywhere in Washington state. If I feel I won’t be able to help you because I don’t know
the area you’re interested in, I will turn to a colleague within the Coldwell Banker Bain and
Coldwell Banker networks for assistance. And because I’m affiliated with Coldwell Banker,
I can refer you to real estate professionals throughout the United States and more than 50
countries world-wide. Whether it’s a single family home, condominium, investment or
vacation property, I am able to help you find the right property.
Partner with the best in the world.
Coldwell Banker Bain’s extensive network of tools and knowledgeable professionals
allows us to provide the first class service you expect during the very personal experience
of buying or selling a home. Through our expertise in home preparation, price setting,
inspection guidance and contract negotiations, we deliver the results you demand. We
bring insight, experience and in-depth understanding of markets and personalities to each
transaction, and we put our knowledge on your side to engage you fully in the entire
process.
These high standards have given Coldwell Banker Bain a
legacy of success in Western Washington and beyond. Out
of more than 3,000 Coldwell Banker companies around
the world, Coldwell Banker Bain consistently ranks as one
of the top two, and is perennially number one in the
West.1 In addition, both Real Trends and RIS Media’s
Real Estate rank us in the top 20 of the nation’s most
productive residential real estate companies. 2
Our high standards and proven track record of success
make us your best partner when it comes to buying or
selling your home.
This designation is awarded each year to the Coldwell Banker residential affiliate with the highest Closed Adjusted Gross
Commission Income. Coldwell Banker Bain combines with Coldwell Banker Seal in the Portland, OR/Vancouver, WA area as
a single Coldwell Banker affiliate. 2 Based on closed sales volume.
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BUYER AGENCY AGREEMENT
Our agreement eliminates surprises.
With our Buyer Agency Agreement, you can be confident that your home buying process
will be transparent and well-managed by me. The agreement serves to:
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Detail the scope of my services.
Explain my compensation.
Define our commitment to each other.
BUYER SERVICES GUARANTEE
Coldwell Banker Bain and I guarantee our services. If at any time you are unhappy with
the services provided, you may speak with our principal managing broker, and if
necessary, we will terminate our contract with you.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU MAKE
AN OFFER ON A HOME
Once we make an offer on a home it is my job to make sure that your offer is accepted, carefully
executed, every detail of your transaction is completed, and adheres to the strict time schedules of
your contract.
I will be providing you with a calendar once we have mutual acceptance on your home. In this
calendar you will see tasks that will be shown in either red or black. The black will represent all the
tasks that I will be completing for you and the red will show you any tasks you need to be
concerned about. (For example: Your closing date) This calendar is provided as a visual display of
the important dates of your contract.
Additionally, the following items are all part of the pending to closing process:
The Offer and Contract
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When the offer has mutual acceptance, I will deliver copies of the fully-signed contract to
all parties & escrow.
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I will direct you where to deliver your earnest money.
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I will provide copies of the signed contract for you and the office file.
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I will track all dates in the contract, making sure that you are meeting all agreed-to
deadlines.
Tracking the Loan Process
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I will touch base with you weekly to ensure your loan is processing on track.
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I will relay final approval of your loan application to seller’s broker.
Home Inspection
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I will coordinate your professional home inspection or you may select a licensed
professional of your own choice. Broker must be at inspection.
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I will review your home inspector’s report and discuss issues with you.
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I will draft an inspection response to sellers based on your requests; then negotiate work
items with seller’s broker and seller.
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I will recommend contractors to perform any negotiated or required repairs.
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I will oversee the completion of all required repairs on your behalf, if needed.
The Appraisal
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I will confirm with your lender that appraisal is scheduled.
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I will follow up with you and your lender on the status of the appraisal.
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I will alert the seller’s broker when the appraisal has been completed.
Closing Preparations and Duties
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I will confirm you have received the title insurance commitment.
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I will coordinate the closing process with you, the seller’s broker and escrow company.
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I will update closing forms and files.
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I will ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale.
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I will coordinate the closing location with you and the closing agent.
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I’ll assist you in finding a moving company and track possession date to confirm move-in
date.
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I will work with the seller’s broker in scheduling and conducting your final walk-thru prior
to closing.
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I will request final closing figures from the closing agent.
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I will request a copy of closing documents from closing agent.
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If a Home Warranty was purchased, I will deliver claim forms/directions to you.
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If you’re buying and selling, I will coordinate this closing with your sale (if necessary) and
resolve any timing problems.
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I will have a “no surprises” closing by closely tracking all the details with all parties.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Many buyers do not fully understand the home-buying process and the role of a real estate
broker. Here are some of the most often asked questions brokers receive from buyers.
What is a “Buyer Agency Agreement?”
A “buyer agency agreement” is a contract between a buyer and a real estate broker. Contracts
often vary in length, and can include or exclude certain geographical areas. The buyer agency
agreement lays out the commitments of the buyer to the broker, and of the broker to the
buyer.
Is it expensive to use a buyer’s broker?
The compensation that a buyer’s broker receives (also called the “selling broker”) typically
comes from the seller’s proceeds and is a percentage of the total commission charged by the
listing company. That information is available to me through the Multiple Listing Service
(MLS). In such a case, there is no cost for a buyer to be represented by a broker.
If a buyer is interested in purchasing a property not listed in an MLS, it is possible that the
seller will not compensate the buyer’s broker. In this case, a buyer agency agreement would
detail the buyer’s obligation to compensate their broker. Typically, even with unlisted
properties, the seller compensates the buyer’s broker.
What type of information will my broker need from me?
To do the best job for you, your broker will need the best information you can provide. This
would include such things as:
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preferred price range
number of bedrooms / bathrooms
style of home (single-story, two-story, etc.)
size of yard
preferred school districts
geographical areas / neighborhoods of interest
special needs / special interests which your home needs to accommodate
down payment, lender, and proposed mortgage
Keep in mind that a very specific set of criteria may narrow your list of potential properties,
while a very broad list may lead to an overwhelming number of properties to view.
What is a “dual agent” and should I work with one?
“Dual agency” refers to the practice of a single broker representing both the buyer and the
seller during the real estate transaction. When a broker acts in a dual capacity, they owe the
same fiduciary responsibility to both parties. Most states have a required brochure or pamphlet
which details the responsibilities of buyer’s brokers, seller’s brokers, and dual agents. Buyers
considering the use of a dual agent should pay particular attention to the difference in
responsibilities when a broker acts as a representative of both the buyer and the seller.
Pro-Dual Agency: When an experienced, competent broker undertakes the responsibility of
acting a dual agent, the broker no longer acts as an “advocate” for one party or the other.
Rather, the broker becomes more of a mediator. In theory, because the broker knows the
details of each party’s bottom line, the broker can negotiate a solution that will please both
parties.
Anti-Dual Agency : When you are working with a broker who is acting as a dual agent, you have
lost your strong “advocate” in the buying process. In addition, buyers usually meet dual agents
at open houses – meaning that the broker has already developed a strong working (and
contractual) relationship with the seller. In such a case, it’s human nature that the broker is
going to feel a stronger responsibility to negotiate on the seller’s behalf. Since the seller has
already agreed to compensate a broker as part of the listing agreement, it only makes sense for
you to find a broker who is solely committed to being your advocate. The practice of dual
agency, when not performed correctly, is one of the leading causes of real estate litigation.
How can I learn of new properties?
Your broker can work with you to determine how often you want to receive updates on
available homes, and what method you would prefer information to be sent to you (telephone,
email, snail mail). Clients using email can receive automatic updates from most MLS systems
as soon as new listings are entered.
Can my broker provide information on properties listed with other companies?
Yes, provided your broker is a member of the MLS where the property is listed. Some
communities have more than one MLS, so it’s important to find out which MLS(s) your broker
subscribes to.
What if I find a property on my own?
With the arrival of the Internet, many buyers have begun searching for – and often finding –
properties of interest while working with a broker. If you have a broker, contact them with the
address or the MLS number of the property in question. Your broker can then contact the
broker of the property. It is never appropriate for you to contact the seller of the home directly
if it is a listed property; you also should not contact the listing broker directly.
Can I go to open houses without my broker?
Yes. However, when meeting the broker hosting the open house it’s best if you immediately
identify yourself as working with another broker. If you don’t, your broker might not be able
to help you write an offer on that property in the future.
Can I work with more than one broker?
Sometimes buyers think that having more than one broker “working for them” means they’ll
have more sets of eyes looking out for the perfect home. The reality is that brokers all have
access to the same database of homes on the market—the MLS. Working with just one broker
also allows that broker to spend enough one-on-one time with you to really get a good
understanding of you, your wants and needs. They’ll be able to ask questions as they show you
homes, helping you refine your specifications as you go. Having one broker also saves you time,
as once your broker knows you well, they will not show you homes they know will not work for
you. Finally, it is a difficult situation for a broker to work with a buyer who is engaging with
multiple real estate brokers. Without a commitment from you to work with just one broker, it’s
not likely that the broker will be able do their best work for you.
The exception to this situation is a buyer who is looking in a large geographic area. If you are
looking for property outside the market area your broker specializes in, ask them for a referral
to a broker in another area(s). That way, both brokers are in communication during the home
search, allowing them to partner in finding you the right property.
What if I am unhappy with my broker?
Let your broker know that you’re unhappy, and the reasons why because it may be a simple
misunderstanding that can be corrected. If the issues are more substantial, or the relationship
simply isn’t the right “fit,” tell the broker you no longer wish to work with them. If you have a
buyer agency agreement with your broker, you will need to provide a written cancellation of the
agreement.
Don’t let a less-than-perfect relationship keep you from finding another broker to work with.
The process of buying and selling real estate involve complex transactions, and it’s important
that you have a broker to represent your best interests.
TIPS FOR GETTING STARTED
The key to finding the right home is organization. Here are some tips to help you get
started:
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Before you start house-hunting, determine what you can afford. If you are obtaining a
loan, I can refer you to a loan officer to pre-approve you for a home loan.
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Prioritize what is most important and then make a list of what you are looking for in a
home. We will go over your list, so I know exactly what your needs are.
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Make notes as you look at the home; some people even bring along video recorders or
digital cameras to help remember which features go with which home.
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When you do choose a home, you should have the home inspected, to make sure the
home is structurally sound. I would be happy to provide you with a list of home
inspectors you can contact. The inspector will look for large repairs that are needed
and report on the overall condition of the home.
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Once you've found the home you want to buy, together we'll complete a purchase and
sale agreement. This is the contract in which the seller and the buyer outline the
details of the property transfer.
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A closing date is jointly agreed-upon during the negotiation stage of the transaction.
Before closing, the closing broker (usually an escrow or title company) will compile a
thorough settlement statement for both buyer and seller.
SUMMARY
The purchase of real estate represents a large financial commitment on your part. It’s
important for you to have representation during the process.
When working with a buyer’s broker, remember:
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Typically there is no compensation required from you to have representation.
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Your broker can get you information/show you any listed property.
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You can search for properties on your own, but you should involve your broker
once you’ve found a property of interest.
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You can attend open houses without your broker, but be sure to quickly identify
your agency relationship to the broker at the open house.
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A buyer agency agreement details the working agreement between you and your
buyer’s broker.
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“Dual agency” is an option; be sure you understand the differences between
traditional buyer agency and dual agency.
If you have any questions regarding purchasing a home or would like me to be your broker,
please give me a call. I want your home buying experience to be as easy and enjoyable as
possible and will do everything I can to ensure you find the home that is right for you.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
ONE HOME AT A TIME
Thank you for taking the time to preview my qualifications and resumes. This
information package was prepared for you to answer any questions you may have about
the buying process.
I recognize that purchasing a home is one of the most important decisions you will ever
make, therefore, I treat our relationship with the utmost care and respect.
I look forward to working with you in the near future and feel confident that you will be
happy with my services.
THANK YOU!
Office: (206) 352-4752
Cell: (206) 790-0081
[email protected]
www.JamieFlaxman.com
REALTOR ® | Broker
CNE, SRES
BUYER NEEDS ANALYSIS
Price Range: ____________________________________________________________
Style: __________________________________________________________________
Age: ___________________________________________________________________
Approximate Square Footage:_______________________________________________
Bedrooms:______________________________________________________________
Den: (yes/no) ___________________________________________________________
Baths:__________________________________________________________________
Lot/Acres:______________________________________________________________
School District:___________________________________________________________
Heat:__________________________________________________________________
Fireplace:_______________________________________________________________
Garage:_________________________________________________________________
Special Features/Notes:____________________________________________________
HOMEBUYER INFORMATION:
Name: ____________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________
City:___________________________
Home #: (
)___________________
State:__________
Work #: (
E-mail: _________________________ Cell #: (
Zip:_________________
)_____________________
)_______________________
Lender: _________________________ Contact: __________________________
Lender #: _______________________ Amt. Down: ______________________
Pre-approved:_____________
Loan type: ____________
WHAT ARE YOUR BUYING CONCERNS?
I’m eager to have you share your concerns and expectations about buying your
home. From the list below, please check any items that may cause you concern:
 My Ability to Buy?
 Inconvenience?
 Financing?
 Closing costs?
 Commissions?
 Closing Timeline?
 Selection Options?
 Pricing?
 Environmental Concerns?
 Mortgage Assistance?
 Negotiations?
 Viewing Schedules?
 Inspections?
 Location?
 Zoning?
 Investment Value?
Write-in any other concerns not mentioned above:
__________________________________________________________________
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