Christopher Braxtan's Q&A

Hi Joyce,Zillow's zestimates are frequently inaccurate. They can be used to track trends in neighborhood values with some degree of accuracy, but the values for individual properties need to be verified by a person. Zestimates don't consider the subjective criteria that add value to your property; things like the quality of the view, finish quality, how well your home is presented when listed for sale and many other criteria that cannot be plugged into the zestimate algorithm. That said, a new condo project in South lake Union was announced last week. That project will put more than 300 additional units ont he market. While SLU is not your neighborhood, it's close enough to compete with yours and homes there will compete with homes in the core of downtown. There is already an over-supply of condos in Seattle. Let me know if you would like a more accurate pricing opinion on your condo. I would be happy to provide one for you. Just drop me a line at christopher@braxtanre.com.Best,Christopher

Hi kitadog1,Mortgage balances, original sale price and year recorded are available to the public, but Realtors can look this information up faster than the general public.  I can find that info for you in less than five minutes. If the property you're interested in is in King County, just send me an email with the specific info you want and I'll get it for you.christopher@braxtanre.com

As Terry said, good communication with your agent is key. You and your agent should both work to stay in touch and be comfortable communicating with each other.