Jason Buffington on How to Get the Most Bang for Your Buck

Especially in the highly sought-after Georgia real estate market, it is a delicate dance between you and your realtor. Buying, selling, and investing can be a labyrinth if you’re unprepared and your agent isn’t willing to help you. You could end up on the wrong side of a bad deal, hindered by an overpriced property or less change in your pocket.

To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, you need to take two steps. Firstly, do your research, and take advice from someone who knows real estate. Second, find a realtor with long-standing local knowledge and attentive client service.

Getting better outcomes drives Jason Buffington, recently named one of Georgia’s Top 10 agents, and his realty team. After all, you couldn’t close over $181m in sales volume and facilitate over 700 transactions without inspiration and insight. Jason has given three pieces of advice to help you get a better deal out of your property and your agent:

1. Manage your money

“It’s crucial to focus on finding a property that fits within your budget and financial capabilities,” the Georgia native says. “By searching within your price range, you’ll ensure a more comfortable and sustainable homeownership experience.” 

“Avoid the temptation to overspend to impress others,” he continues. “Focus on searching for a property that meets your and your family’s needs.”

In some circumstances, it might seem unconventional for an established real estate agent to encourage lower-value purchases. But the best realtors consider your circumstances, prioritizing relationships over profit. Some are specialists, while others will take on all transactions equally, so choose the right realtor for you.

2. Look to the long-term

How you’ll feel in 20 years isn’t exactly at the front of your mind when buying your first home. However, it’s important to recognize the magnitude of your purchase and the value it could offer you down the line. Property is one of the most future-proof assets, and thinking about it like that could help you get the most for your money.

“Purchasing a home is often the most significant investment you’ll make,” Buffington states. “We encourage our clients to approach it with an investment mindset, considering factors such as location, potential for appreciation, and long-term value. Making informed decisions and viewing your home as an asset that can appreciate over time will help you make a sound investment choice.”

Realtors who focus on long-lasting relationships can provide a multitude of advantages to their clients. They have connections in the area, providing more local awareness, and can nurture a lucrative long-term partnership with investors. Choosing a realtor who sees your purchase as a home and an investment is the surefire path to property prosperity.

3. Flog with the flow

I know you’ve just found your dream home, and you need to sell your previous one ASAP to move in. But what if the offer’s a little low, or in 12 months, your property could be worth significantly more? The top 1.5% realtor has some valuable advice on the subject.

“When selling your property, it’s essential to be flexible and adaptable,” he explains. “The real estate market can fluctuate, and it’s crucial to go with the flow and adjust your strategies accordingly. Listen to the advice of your experienced real estate agent and be open to adjustments in pricing, staging, or marketing strategies—it will increase your chances of a successful and timely sale.”

So yes, that could mean leaving the dotted line blank on your sale contract for a bit longer. On the flip side, you might receive more for your property than you expected when it was first valued. An experienced and knowledgeable realtor will be pivotal in maximizing the financial outcome of your sale regardless of the scenario.

By following Jason Buffington’s advice, you can make informed decisions, increase your investment potential, and navigate the purchase and sale process more effectively. When the time arrives to buy, sell, or invest, ensure you can call on a committed realtor who puts your profit above theirs.