You’ve made it through your home purchase. Congratulations! The hard work is done and now it’s time to let out a sigh of relief and start life in your new home. 

But while homeownership is definitely a rewarding experience, there can be ups and downs along the way. Even through the transaction is over, your REALTOR® is still an important resource who can help you on that journey. 

A Trusted Guide 
REALTOR® Erin Klinger with Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood tells her clients at the closing table that she is their REALTOR® for life. 

“Most of us are full service REALTORS®, and that means our relationship doesn’t end the day you buy or sell your home,” she said. “There are still a lot of major decisions that you’ll face over the years, and we’re here to help guide you.” 

For instance, Klinger says she receives quite a few calls every March from clients who are concerned their tax assessments might be off, and if needed, she helps prepare them to go in front of the board to present an appeal. 

“I am also always looking at what’s going on in the Lansing area related to new development, taxes, market trends, whatever it may be,” she said. “If I come across anything that could affect my clients, I will definitely reach out to keep them updated.” 

A Large Network 
REALTOR® Missy Lord with RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals says she is often called upon by clients for professional referrals. 

“At some point, you’ll need a contractor, a painter, an HVAC professional, a landscaper, you name it,” she said. “Over the years, we’ve worked with a variety of professionals and have developed a network of service providers we trust, and we are more than happy to pass that information to our clients whenever they need it.” 

Lord actually had a recent situation where her rolodex of professionals came in very handy. 

“One of my clients was having issues with their septic system and needed someone to come out right away,” she said. “I reached out to a contact I worked with in the past and he went out that same day and got them all taken care of.” 

Sound Advice 
Thinking of renovating your kitchen? Refinishing your basement? Putting an addition on the back of your house? How will those renovations affect your value? Your marketability? The best way to know if you’re using your dollars wisely is to consult your REALTOR®. 

“I’ve been contacted by clients who are thinking of selling, and want to know if they should do some work to their house beforehand,” said Klinger. “When it comes to renovations, we know what buyers are looking for, we know what is expected in the current market, and we know how to help our clients get the biggest bang for their buck.” 

Lord says she has also given advice to clients who are trying to get their private mortgage insurance (PMI) removed. 

“I’ve had clients reach out to me for a market analysis, so we could determine if they could possibly refinance and have enough equity to remove their PMI,” she said. “Of course, to move forward they would need an appraisal, but I can help them find out if it’s even worth spending the money.” 

Moving Up
And when you outgrow your current home and are ready to make a move, your REALTOR® will be there again to help you navigate both the selling and buying process. 

 “I’ve seen clients get married, start families, get new jobs...whatever the life experience is, it’s been truly rewarding to watch their journeys.” 

Lord agrees and says being a part of her clients’ lives over the years is her favorite part of the job. 

“When they’re ready for their next home, it’s easy to pick back up where we left off,” she said. “I already know their likes and dislikes, I know what’s important to them, I know their budget, so it’s really a seamless transition and that makes them feel more comfortable.” 

For a listing of local REALTORS® who can be your trusted resource before, during, and after the sale, visit the Greater Lansing Association of REALTORS® website at http://www.lansing-realestate.com.