The Tennessean
Real Estate
REALTOR SPOTLIGHT
Years in business: 18
Describe the company and explain what makes it unique. How did you become involved in real estate? I understand that running a successful business – of any sort – requires an unyielding commitment to professionalism and customer service. In the world of real estate, particularly luxury home sales, I’ve also discovered how important it is the stay on the cutting edge of innovation and technology. To that end, I’ve assembled a team of marketing professionals who create cutting-edge brochures, inventive marketing pieces and individualized promotional campaigns for each seller.
My father, Ken Culp, is a retired Realtor. I literally grew up in the world of buying and selling homes and property. He taught me to love and respect this ever-changing business. I also credit him with my work ethic and high standards. He taught me that each and every client should always be treated with the utmost respect.
Where in the Nashville region are you active? Davidson and Williamson counties.
When selling a home, what can the owner do to maximize its value? I’ve written about this extensively in my blog. I think that home sellers can be overwhelmed by all the Pinterest and HGTV advice they’re inundated with, so I try to help them streamline their “to-do” list.
That said, I do suggest that potential clients focus on good landscaping, fresh interior paint in neutral colors and, if their budget allows, luxury upgrades (like granite countertops and hardwood floors) in important rooms like the kitchen, great room and master bedroom. Most of the time, sellers will earn back the money they spent prepping their home for sale.
What advice do you have for clients who are preparing to buy a home? What steps should they take? Hire a good Realtor who has experience with an evolving market and who can walk you through the steps of securing a mortgage and making wise financial decisions.
Many buyers think they know what’s out there through their own internet research, but an experienced real estate professional might have knowledge about properties before they even hit the MLS. Many Realtors also have professional relationships with mortgage brokers, contractors and bankers and can guide their clients (especially first-time or luxury home buyers) in the right direction.
How is technology changing the way people buy and sell houses? Obviously, technology’s been a huge boon for our business and for buyers and sellers alike. As a professional Realtor, technology allows me to research homes, stay abreast of local trends and continue extensive professional development. It also allows me to create state-of-the-art marketing materials that help me sell homes quickly.
But, many clients come to be armed with facts and statistics that they’ve gleaned from an internet search that are misleading or flat-out wrong. Fortunately, my team and I have particular knowledge about how to navigate the plethora of information that’s available at the touch of a button and sift through what’s useful and what’s not.
What features are the most popular with today’s buyers? Open floor plans, master bedrooms on the main level and welcoming communities and neighborhoods in great locations.
While I counsel my clients who are selling their homes to make upgrades, if possible, and stage their home to be shown in the best possible light, many buyers are able to look past the “window dressing” and know that a fantastic location, good schools and ready access to community amenities are going to be important to them.
What is the hallmark of the service you provide to your clients? Certainly, I try to provide unparalleled accessibility and transparency with my clients. When I promise a client one-on-one attention, they can be sure that they’re going to get it.