Image

Your Guide to

Residential Real Estate

Stephanie & Michael Glaubitz of The First Response Team presents to You

Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism

Dear

Chris Ojo

Buying a home is a rewarding adventure and we're so happy to have the opportunity to bring your real estate dreams to life! In doing so, we aim to instill knowledge and confidence in all our buyers while helping them successfully navigate through every step of the process.

In the following presentation, you’ll be provided an outline of everything you need to know from consultation to handing over the keys. Our mission is to deliver world-class customer service and a winning experience.
Sincerely,

First Response Team

- you're in great hands -

Meet

First Response Team

REALTORS
(240) 832-1753 (240) 832-0688
Stephanie Glaubitz Michael Glaubitz The First Response Team of Home Towne Real Estate is a unique group of realtors dedicated to serving their clients with the same level of care and commitment as they would in their roles as first responders and their family.
Comprised entirely of first responders and their family members themselves, the team brings a unique perspective to the real estate industry.
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, looking to upgrade or downsize your property, or in need of purchasing short/long-term rentals, the team has a wealth of personal and professional experience to draw on.
They pride themselves on their ability to protect and serve their clients' interests throughout every step of the real estate transaction process.
In honor of their fellow first responders, the team offers a discount to those within the first responder family.
Facebook
YouTube
Seller Home Valuation
Image

Proven Track Record

Service

Provide great customer service by building bonds with clients that lead to long-term relationships where we truly care about their needs.

Knowledge

By pursuing excellence in our expertise as agents we can better service our clients and lead them to home ownership in a smooth and easy process.

Integrity

Be ethical in all you do and communicate with honesty while paying attention to the details of each and every client, agent, and transaction.
Market data as of:
The Market Action Index (MAI) is a literal temperature gauge that shows whether the market favors buyers or sellers.
An MAI of 30 is typically balanced; over 30 is a seller's market, under 30 is a buyer's market.

Buyer markets

Buyers get better deals and more choices when MAI is low.

Seller markets

Sellers can list for higher prices and quicker sales when MAI is high
Market data as of:

View current market trends

Scan the QR code to see the current Market Trends report

Processes

1

Consultation

We’ll sit down together and help you determine your needs, wants and goals while offering our personal industry expertise and strategies for bringing your vision to life.
Image

2

Preapproval

Through vetting every possible home option for you - even exclusive and off-market opportunities we determine your best options and accompany you in viewing them to make sure everything is above board.
Image

3

Property tours

After you have reviewed and selected which homes you want to tour, we get to go shopping! This is where you can start figuring out what you really want in your new home.
Image

4

Write offer

.Once we find the home of your dreams, we'll submit an official offer - including but not limited to sale price, inspection contingencies, commissions and closing costs. The seller then has time to accept, reject, or counter your offer.
Image

5

Under Contract or Escrow

With your offer accepted, we usually enter a 30-60 day Escrow period. This involves a neutral third party company that holds funds while conducting a thorough underwriting process to ensure all aspects of the contract are upheld properly
Image

6

Appraisal

The appraisal is ordered by your lender to protect their investment. They have their own checklist of things they look at for the final approval to move forward. The appraiser can demand repairs completed by the seller before they will give their approval.
Image

7

Inspections

Now that you've found your home we need to order the inspection. The inspection will let you know what repairs are needed, some are minor and some may be safety issues. Don't worry, you are still protected.
Image

8

Closing

Congratulations! You now own a home and can get moved in. It's time to celebrate and have your housewarming and show off your home. We will be standing by to answer any questions you may have about home-ownership and have a list of contractors if the need arises.
Image

Unique Value We Provide Our Clients

★
Professional Network to help your purchase go smoothly

Professional Network

Image

Sr. Loan Officer-SWBC Mortgage

Kristofer Webb

NMLS 201818

410-530-2747 Kris.Webb@swbc.com

Image

Branch Sales Manager-First Home Mortgage

Jeffrey Halbert

NMLS 71222

301-802-1944 JHalbert@firsthome.com

★
Market insights as a result of my recent sales in your area

My Recent Sales in the Upper Marlboro, MD area!

Sales activity in your desired search area will directly benefit you due to my market knowledge, negotiating prowess, and insights into local activity!
★
Exceptional reviews that reflect a pattern of excellence with our past clients.

Raving Reviews

As a first-time homebuyer, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience than working with Mike and Stephanie (First Response Team). They were incredibly diligent and professional throughout the entire process, patiently answering all of my questions and filling in any gaps in my knowledge. Their accommodating nature with my unusual work hours and their flexibility in communication methods made the experience smooth and stress-free. Mike and Stephanie truly went above and beyond to ensure everything went as expected. I highly recommend them to anyone looking to buy a home.
[Read More]
We can not say enough about our experience with Mike and Steph. From the very beginning of our journey they have been the most consistent, helpful and patient. During such a tough market, they helped guide us through a home sale and a purchase. We certainly feel like we got the most value on both of our transactions. From the very beginning they felt like, "home". What we appreciated the most was the consistent communication and information provided throughout our entire process. Never assuming we just knew information but taking to the time to walk us through everything soup to nuts. They have certainly earned our business for future transactions.
[Read More]
Stephanie has been my realtor and helped me to sell a home and to buy another. She is knowledgeable and answered all of my questions. She showed a lot of patience and made sure I was completely happy with my purchase. It took a while to find the right home for me and my son but Stephanie made sure we saw what was available and provided me with all the information I needed. I highly recommend!
[Read More]
Stephanie and Mike are the ultimate dream team! From start to finish, their communication was impeccable, always quick to respond to our questions and concerns, and consistently made us feel at ease and supported. Their attention to detail and proactive approach turned what could have been a challenging process into a seamless experience. We are incredibly grateful to have found them and will undoubtedly reach out to them in the future. Highly recommend!
[Read More]
Stephanie helped me purchase my first home! It was a great experience as client. The purchase was more complex than usual being a short sale, however Stephanie was there every step of the way guiding me through the process. 100% would use again.
[Read More]

Loyalty

This custom presentation that I’ve shared with you is an example of the care and effort we put into each client. We recognize that this purchase is one of the largest financial transactions of your life and it deserves careful consideration and wise planning. In light of this, we feel strongly that mutual respect and understanding are key components of us helping you accomplish your real estate goals.

Reviewing each others roles and responsibilities as we embark on the next steps of your home-buying journey is how we can decide if we are ready to be loyal to one another.
Image
Image

Starting August 17th, 2024

It is required to complete and sign a written agreement before showing a home. This applies to buyers requiring the services of any licensed agent in the U.S. to visit a property.
Image

By Signing the Agreement to Partner with an Agent

Our agent is dedicated to you and committed to finding a home that meets your needs.
Image

With a proven track record

We have the knowledge and experience to be the BEST asset in your real estate endeavors.

Signing a Buyers Broker Agreement or BBA

  • This is an agreement to engage with a professional real estate agent to consult, show homes, negotiate contracts, and advocate.
  • It will establish the length of the agreement
  • It shows the agent/broker's services and responsibilities
  • It explains the agreement's exclusivity between Broker and client, what fees are owed for services rendered, and how to terminate the agreement. It mentions additional fees if the buyer signs with more than one agent.
  • It provides a clear explanation of the various ways an agent can be compensated for their services to the Buyer.
Image

104 More Ways

Agents Who Are Realtors ® Are Worth Every Penny Of Their Compensation.

Here’s a look at all the things – big and small – that a REALTOR ® may do to help clients when buying a home.

Counseling Session Activities

  • Prepare the buyer for executing a buyer representation agreement
  • Explain agency relationships to the buyer and get state required legal consentto represent, if needed
  • Inform the buyer of working relationship based on state law, the REALTORS®Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies

Building a Relationship

  • Learn the buyer’s wants and non-negotiable needs
  • Understand the buyer’s budget and what will be needed financially
  • Help the buyer understand what property their chosen budget will buy
  • Consider having the buyer fill out a homebuyer’s checklist
  • Assist the buyer in examining how much they can afford to spend
  • Provide quality lender resources
  • Partner with the buyer to locate suitable properties for consideration
  • Match the buyer’s needs with available property
  • Constantly re-evaluate buyer’s needs and refocus property showings to fit those needs
  • After ensuring the buyer understands what is done for them, how it is done,and the benefit to them, obtain signatures on the buyer representation agreement
  • Explain how compensation is paid, who pays it, and what the buyer’s options are for paying it

Educating the Buyer

  • Communicate the working relationship based on state law, the REALTORS®Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies
  • Explain Federal and State Fair Housing laws
  • Explain what to look for in applicable property disclosures
  • Reassure the buyer that their personal information will remain confidential
  • Inform the buyer that you will always disclose all known material defects
  • In accordance with state law, provide information on checking the sex-offenderregistry and crime statistics for the neighborhood
  • Discuss available resources that the buyer can check to learn more aboutprospective neighborhoods
Image
REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS®

Preparing the Buyer

  • Explain the timeline for house hunting, mortgage approval, and closing
  • Explain the local market and how it impacts the buyer
  • Show statistics on what percentage of list price sellers in the area are currently receiving
  • Inform the buyer on what home features are popular
  • Identify current average days on market
  • Share the dangers of using the price per square foot to figure home values
  • Explain the concept of absorption rate and how it impacts the buying process
  • Indicate current listing months of market inventory
  • Share estimated potential out-of-pocket costs to complete the transaction
  • Assist the buyer in analyzing the loan estimates
  • Qualify the buyer for financial ability to purchase
  • Help the buyer account for the complete costs of homeownership
  • Prepare lender for listing agent calls
  • Assist in comparing different financing options
  • Help the buyer select for viewing only those homes that fit their needs
  • Proceed in showing homes that fit the buyer’s must-haves
  • Caution the buyer on posting information to social media
  • Review the sample sales contract so the buyer is prepared when it comes time to make an offer

Showing Properties

  • Schedule showings and provide access to all listed properties as soon as they become available in their local MLS broker marketplaces
  • Educate the buyer on the immediacy of new listings appearing in their local MLS broker marketplaces and the lag time for them to appear on some websites
  • Collaborate with the buyer on properties they may have learned about through their sphere contacts
  • Research and assist on all unlisted properties the buyer wishes to see
  • Preview properties prior to showing if needed
  • Network with other agents to source properties not yet in their local MLS broker marketplaces
  • Contact homeowners in focus areas to see if they are considering selling
  • Set up an automated email alert system through their local MLS broker market places that immediately notifies the buyer of properties that fit discussed requirements
  • Arrange a tour of areas, schools, and key points of interest
  • Provide resources containing neighborhood information on municipal services,schools, etc.
  • Inform the buyer of negative aspects like nearby venues or operations that may result in issues that could impact value
  • Check applicable zoning and building restrictions
  • Help the buyer decipher public property and tax information
  • Collect and share pertinent data on values, taxes, utility costs, etc.
  • Compare each property shown to the buyer’s wants and needs list and remind them of what they were looking for
  • Help the buyer narrow the search until the buyer identifies top choices

Negotiating Offers

  • Assist the buyer in getting the best property at the best price
  • Suggest that the buyer learn more about the neighborhood prior to making an offer
  • Prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA) in advance of making an offer
  • Prepare the buyer to have the most attractive offer in the current marketplace
  • Explain common contract contingencies and include approved protective clauses in the purchase offer
  • Ensure that the buyer receives and understands all state and federally-required disclosure forms
  • Prioritize contract negotiation goals with the buyer
  • Help create a negotiating strategy
  • Use strategies such as an escalation clause to maintain a competitive offer
  • Prepare the buyer for a multiple offer situation and develop negotiation strategies
  • Write an offer that has a reasonable chance of being accepted
  • Recommend optional contingencies and explain the pros and cons of using them
  • Provide information on purchasing incentives that may be available
  • Discuss financing alternatives
  • Negotiate the buyer’s offers to arrive at the best price and terms
  • Utilize hyperlocal expertise and strong communication skills to assist the buyer in being the successful offer

Advocating for the Buyer and Facilitating the Close (Part 1/2)

  • Advocate for the buyer throughout the entire process
  • Encourage the buyer to fully investigate their options in terms of a home inspector, title company, appraiser, mortgage lender, and other services
  • Present a list of the types of required and optional inspections such as environmental, roofing, and mold
  • Review and discuss home inspection concerns
  • Negotiate repair requests from home inspection
  • Guide the buyer on meeting all contract deadlines
  • Assist in coordinating communications
  • Advise the buyer to review the settlement statement
  • Inform clients that they need to transfer utilities to the new residence
  • Schedule final walkthrough
  • Accompany the buyer on the walkthrough
  • Assist the buyer in questioning the appraisal report if it affects the financing
  • Confirm clear-to-close with the lender
  • Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale
  • Remind the buyer of the location where the closing will be held
  • Confirm the closing date and time, and notify parties if there are changes
  • Gather all required forms and documents for closing
  • Explain flood insurance to the buyer
  • Explain title insurance to the buyer and refer to qualified insurance broker
  • Order any surveys needed

Advocating for the Buyer and Facilitating the Close (Part 2/2)

  • Order the appraisal
  • Order the title search
  • Confirm the status of the loan funding
  • Check addendums and alterations for agreed terms
  • Review the buyer’s closing statement to ensure accuracy
  • Explain wire fraud risks and remind clients to verify all wiring instructionsbefore transferring funds
  • Double-check all tax, homeowners’ association dues, utility, and applicable prorations, if relevant
  • Request final closing figures from the closing agent (often an attorney or title company)
  • Receive and carefully review closing figures to ensure accuracy
  • Receive and carefully review title insurance commitment with the buyer
  • Advise the buyer to re-key their locks and to consider a one-time cleaning service or landscaping before moving day
  • Review documents with the closing agent (attorney)
  • Support the buyer in any final closing activities
Image
Actual services provided will depend on the needs of the buyer and the transaction –not all 105 things will need to be done in every transaction.

Featured content from the Center for REALTOR® Development’s Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) Designation Course. Visit crd.realtor to learn more.

Let's Chat.

We are sure you have questions and thoughts about the real estate process. We'd love to talk with you about what you've read here and help you on the path to buying your new home.

We look forward to working with you.
Image
www.hometownerealestate.net/team/the-first-response-team
Image
Image

Thank you!

In everything we do, we are driven to help others, because behind every transaction there is a vision, a goal, a dream waiting to come to life. In doing so, we bring our expertise, our instincts from years of experience, and our complete dedication to you.

This is only the beginning of an exciting journey to a bright and shining new future. And it's only the beginning of our commitment to servicing your every real estate need. Thank you for the opportunity to help you find your perfect home!
We'll be right there with you, every step of the way.