Agent Background

A 29 year Real Estate veteran in the Pacific Northwest. Clients of Mr. West, regardless of their position in life benefit greatly from the wisdom he has experienced in many types of markets and properties. A strong proponent of exploring ideas to diversify the real estate investment, including tax, trusts, titling, finance, exchanges, and debt structure and lives by the motto of ... "Straight Forward Facts... Always" *. He strives to deliver ideas for clients to consider, focus on those issues that could reap good rewards in the investment of Real Estate and is recognizant of looking into the future for solid planning in any type of market. Mr. West demonstrates strong abilities in marketing homes, condominiums and land plus investments. Handling a 1031 exchange or utilizing the team of advisors from the business community proves to be a great resource along with a very experienced contingent of supporting providers. "I think it’s important to educate the consumer on the important issues that are not on the "internet" in regards to real estate information and deliver whatever I can to fully inform them on a timely basis, so they can make a good decision regardless of my position. Hence, I do not like the computer generated market valuations, but rather a clear & complete statement of facts for the consumer to evaluate. I have done my job when years later I'm recognized for serving them well, because it’s not always about today... but the future as well." A recent testimony indicated, "Brad knew what I needed without even asking and delivered everything on time and as exactly as he promised, I wish all business could be conducted this way! (The Turners). Mr. West and his family are very active in the community, school and many church activities. Mr. West enjoys woodworking, home projects, playing ball with his son and fishing as time permits. Mr. West's market areas generally include King and Snohomish Counties. (with portions of Kitsap, Island and Jefferson Counties) If you are not sure-- be assured that he will direct you in a qualified direction!

Brad, what describes a good agent?

My answer is pretty simple to describe a good agent, hence some ideas. 1. Genuine product knowledge. I believe a good agent doesn't search the "net" for listings to sell you but knows the neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and needs, THEN goes out to find it for you. Knowledge includes future trends, investment longevity and a home that provides a solid base for a lifetime of real estate ownership. Ask an agent at an open house about other neighborhoods in town at your price point or bring some up... it won’t take long to know if they really know the area. 2. 10+ years experience. It’s easy to get a license and “degrees”, been there-done that. I am a long term thinker and I like to explore ideas to consider in regards to real estate. I believe it's healthy to discuss tax, investment, financing/debt strategies to build your goals. (A big goal for my clients is to get debt free home at some point-lets make a plan) An experienced agent should least recognize a balance of other financial opportunities that could greatly benefit the buyer. It’s important to know what sells or holds value better in different markets and when an agent is established he/she can more easily act in a manner that may not be in his best interest (a sale today vs. a better home for buyer tomorrow). This is not like a stock purchase where it’s easy to diversify with different stocks. Most agents have a list of do’s and don’ts for a good purchase. Ask them-if they have a long good list there might be some wisdom there. 3. A great agent will put on your shoes or “cowboy boots” as the case may be and throw out the ego part of sales. It’s not about me. Actually I tend to look at the negative things first on a house then I share my mistakes and impart ideas often with clients so hopefully they don’t make the same mistakes, I or others have made. Many times I see where strategies of NOT buying at the max. is actually to the benefit of the buyer and when structured properly pays bigger dividends, so finding the most for the top dollar is not always the best benefit from a great agent. A great agent knows today’s decisions can shape tomorrows future so when I do a presentation or a class to owners, business people or first time buyer’s, I’m heavy on values, safety and ideas. A great agent should start with a client long before they even look at houses & if I don’t provide ideas and viable options and explain them clearly with a balance of other factors in life (marriage, kids, jobs, &…) its time for me to go live on a farm in Montana. :)

Financial Providers.

Its easy to list many service and financial providers. Since plumbers and handyman are abundant, really good long term thinking finacial partners is where I invest my time for resources. When you need a tax calculation or a question about a trust or legal opinion on things from insurance to pensions and you are in the middle of a real estate transaction you need qualifed answers quickly. Many times these are beyond the mortgage lender and escrow part of my business. Ideas. I like to throw them out (the ideas that is to you). Business owners get them for success and so should you.

Distressed Properties, Short Sales and Bank owned?

A PLEA.... In the medical field there is something called, "early detection", Well, same holds true for a client in a distressed position with real estate. The minute you, or someone you know might be getting behind or is on the verge- getting qualified help is critical and can save you years of agony and potentially relief from piles of debt. The scammers are intense and most of the programs do not work. Let our team get you either help or directed to a professional qualified for your situation. I am selling many bank owned, HUD homes, short sales with excellent results both for buyers and sellers as each has their own set of challenges. For buyers this is without a doubt the best time in my 29 years of being a Realtor to invest in the market. We have several seminars and meetings we do periodically on each of these topics so call 206-979-5519 today. (no fee or any obligation-the only time we charge a fee is if we sell your home & many times the lender is paying for our fees :). Call today.