Response from Caroline Cassar on 1/30/2025

I always advocate for my clients, and aim to provide reasonable, realistic advice. For his new home purchase, It was through my efforts that Mr. Winter was able to assume the fixed-rate VA loan of the previous owner with an amazingly low interest rate of only 2.875%. Few agents know how to help their buyers assume a mortgage. As for selling Mr. Winter’s condo, we received three offers below his asking price, and chose the offer that resulted in the highest net for Mr. Winter. Mr. Winter chose to accept it because each agent involved reduced their commissions by $1,830 (for a total client savings of $3,660) and this met the net goal that Mr. Winter desired. We sold his condo for 95% of the original list price. It was a cash offer. That is not a 'low ball offer", and the public data on this sale verifies that. It is unfortunate that I'm only learning now of his regret in selling despite achieving his net goal. Regarding their new home search, Mr. Winter and his wife started with a very large geographical area, and I modified the criteria a few times based on Mr. Winter's direction. After seeing the home, we submitted an offer below the seller's asking price. We secured the deal and the super low interest rate. Mr. Winter and his wife were pleased with the outcome. To prepare the condo for sale, I recommended a fresh coat of paint (to replace the dark/bold colors, since it is well-known that neutral colors appeal to the majority of buyers). I suggested replacing old and rusted appliances since the kitchen was original and had not been updated. To maximize exposure, the home was professionally photographed and listed in both MLS's. As part of my action plan to get the condo sold for top-dollar, I reverse prospected (as I do for all my clients) and contacted countless agents. I sent postcards to the area and email blasts to agents. I also virtually staged the rooms. I made a point to be onsite at the condo as often as I could to prepare for showings. I take my job extremely seriously. We always work with our clients' interests in mind - no exceptions. I appreciate that Mr Winter has had a change of heart in his decision to sell his condo. We met his net and sold the condo at his direction.