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Your Guide to

Home Ownership

Ben Poston Presents to Grafton Hull and Jannah Mathers

Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism

Dear

Grafton Hull and Jannah Mathers


Buying a home is a rewarding adventure and I'm so happy to have the opportunity to bring your real estate dreams to life! This is a big move and takes patients, logistics, planning and a little bit of luck. I aim to instill knowledge and confidence in all my 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,

Ben Poston

- you're in great hands -

Meet

Ben Poston

Broker
(850) 408-1479
ben@viewtallahasseeproperties.com
You will find me to be authentic and knowledgeable. My background is diverse and allows for opportunities to set myself apart from other Realtors. I have a degree in design and have worked in the construction, customer service, and sales fields, also with altruistic values in volunteerism putting others' needs ahead of my own. I look to develop and maintain long-term relationships and strive to exceed expectations on a daily basis.
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Proven Track Record

Service

Provide great customer service by building bonds with clients that lead tolong-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.
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Market Trends in Tallahassee, FL 32309

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

Unique Value I Provide My Clients

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Customized listing search to find the perfect home.

I Found

Properties For Sale in Tallahassee

Scan the QR code to see all listings
See all Listings
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Professional Network to help your purchase go smoothly

Professional Network

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Broker / Owner - McLaughlin Mortgage

John McLaughlin NMLS# 2013969

(850) 296-2864

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

Active listings in the Tallahassee, FL 32309 area!

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

Raving Reviews

Ben has helped us with the purchase of our first home as well as our more recent move 4 years later. His background and familiarity with home repairs give him an advantage over other realtors, he's always available when needed, and he really goes above and beyond. I know everyone probably says that, but he got in the crawlspace to do some last minute repairs that would have pushed back closing. We definitely recommend ben.
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Ben helped us find a home and spent a great deal of time getting to know us and what we were looking for. He was extremely patient, personable and knowledgeable and made the process seamless. He was one of the best realtors I’ve ever worked with. And after the house closed, he actually spent hours at our house fixing an issue with the AC. Not too many realtors would do that! Ben went above and beyond for us and I will forever be grateful for his kindness, patience, professionalism and diligence.
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Ben worked with us for over a year as we transitioned from Tampa to Tallahassee. He kept in contact and when we were ready to get serious with our search, he helped us find a home and close quickly. We highly recommend Ben Poston.
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Ben was great to work with! We're grateful for his guidance and expertise which helped immensely each step of the way. He went way, way beyond our expectations. He really listened to us and understood our parameters. The listings he showed us reflected our interest perfectly. He gave us excellent feedback and advice all along the way, helping us to make a decision on a property that fits us perfectly. He even arranged for vendors to help us with after the sale improvements and checked on our home up to move in day to make sure everything was just right. We highly recommend Ben! Shirley Colee and Joe Willis
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Ben Poston is an exceptional realtor! From his knowledge & experience, to his patience & excitement, he has been a dedicated representative to our home search needs! Every concern answered, every question satisfied - Ben is the best realtor we ever had the pleasure of working with! He and his team exceeded our expectations, at every step of the way - from advice with the early termination of our rental lease to negotiating the offer on our new home! We are so thankful to have had Ben represent us in our home purchase, and would highly recommend his team!
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Ben was recommended to us from my mother who purchased a home with his support in 2022. As first-time buyers, we appreciated Ben's patience. He was straight forward and met us where we were. He educated us step by step, from pre-approval to closing. He was very confident that the timeline/budget we shared with him could be met and he was right! His honesty, transparency, and knowledge set him apart. He is incredibly easy to work with, very nice, and above all normalized so many of the insecurities that come with being first time home buyer with realistic expectations. Highly recommend.
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Ben, was the best part of the whole home buying process. He took time to find houses we would like, walked us through the buying process and made sure we understood everything! He made sure we got the house we wanted, at the price we had set. We will definitely be using Ben again whether we are buying or selling. I cannnot recommend working with him enough!
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Ben is friendly, knowledgeable, and very helpful. He goes the extra mile; he helped me find services I needed, such as cleaning and yard work, and even helped me move a bed frame to storage. He communicated continually throughout the process and responded quickly to my texts. I highly recommend him.
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Ben did an awesome job assisting me as a first time home buyer. He was very helpful throughout the entire process and was willing to walk me through the process. He was comitted to helping me buy my home until the very end. Any questions I had he didn’t hesitate to answer. He has experience in what he does and it shows. I would definitely work with Ben again in the future.
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We contacted Ben when searching for a selling agent because we had run across him years earlier, while looking to buy. He remembered us, which was impressive. He understood the market and the neighborhood. After signing, he laid out his listing and pricing strategy, so we'd know exactly what to expect; and it paid off. We were able to sell our home in days, for above asking price; compared to another similar home on the same street that is still sitting unsold as of this writing. (For future readers, this is at a time when many homes are sitting on the market for around 90 days). We were impressed with his willingness to help take care of the plants after we moved out too! He really understands that curb appeal matters, and also gave us good advice on what matters as far as the interior.
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Review has been shortened using AI, click the review to read the full review.

Review has been shortened using AI.

Loyalty

This custom presentation that I’ve shared with you is an example of the care and effort I put into each of my best clients. I recognize that real estate transactions are one of the largest financial transactions of your life and it deserves careful consideration and wise planning. In light of this, you should feel strongly that mutual respect and understanding are key components of hiring me to help you accomplish real results starting right away.

Reviewing each other’s roles and responsibilities as we embark on the next steps together is how we can decide if we are ready to move forward together.

Processes

1

Consultation

We’ll sit down together and help you determine your needs wants and goals while offering my personal industry expertise and strategies for bringing your vision to life.
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2

Pre-Approval

Getting pre-approved will help you know exactly what you can afford so you can confidently focus on the right homes. Plus, it shows sellers you’re serious, giving you an edge when making an offer.
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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.
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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, and closing costs. The seller then has time to accept, reject, or counter your offer.
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5

Under Contract or Escrow

With your offer accepted, we enter a 30-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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The Critical Role of the REALTOR® 

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Listed here are many typical actions, research steps, procedures, processes and review stages in a successful residential real estate transaction that are provided by Canopy Road Realty in return for their sales commission. Depending on the transaction, some may take minutes, hours, or even days to complete, while some may not be needed.
More importantly, they reflect the level of skill, knowledge and attention to detail required in today’s real estate transaction, underscoring the importance of having help and guidance from someone who fully understands the process – a REALTOR!

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I return calls and emails at lightning speed
I am always available. I answer any questions and am happy to stay on the phone with you. I am a warrior of email, text, and phone and I keep that rhythm right up through the whole transaction. My clients should feel like they are very important to me, and you ARE! My goal is to match my communication style to yours. If you prefer text, I text, if you want a phone call, I call.

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I am up on the latest technology
I always have my laptop and phone with me. I’m an expert in their use. I can do anything from anywhere. Need a document signed when I’m hiking on a trail? You got it. Need to run a quick question by me and I deserves some research? I’m on it. I have the best data plan so I’m never stuck without an internet connection. I go paperless as much as possible. I read a lot of information both about the real estate industry and also about general trends regarding technology.

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I know neighborhoods intimately
The phrase “neighborhood expert” gets bandied about quite a bit but when it comes to top agents, we are walking, talking encyclopedias of neighborhood lore. Ask a question about a street and I know what’s on the market, what sold recently, and the overall status of the neighborhood. Tell me what you like in a neighborhood and suggestions on places to look will come tumbling out. These days anyone can look at houses online but top agents know what lurks below the surface and I keep my value that way.

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I explain everything they are doing
Like straight A students doing math homework, successful agents show their work. When I meet with you for the first time, I explain the process, the potential roadblocks, and a few scenarios that could occur. I’m open and transparent, explaining the negotiations as they happen, keep in regular communication, and they adjust the strategy as needed.

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I have a great network
My top notch partner network provide the same level of service I do. I know the best contractors, appraisers, lenders, title companies and insurance providers in the business. I am the hub of a group of professionals that can advise and assist with anything real estate or home related. As a top agent, I care for my network and am happy to refer clients that they know will get top care. I am ruthless about cutting out anyone who doesn’t provide great customer service to you. Overall, great customer service is about two things, knowledge and authenticity.

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105 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 consent to 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-offender registry and crime statistics for the neighborhood
  • Discuss available resources that the buyer can check to learn more about prospective neighborhoods
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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 currentlyreceiving
  • 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 marketplaces 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
  • Collect and share any other vital information on available homes, remembering to follow all fair housing laws at all times
  • 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 makingan 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 instructions before 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 ortitle 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
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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.
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What buyers need to know about the
National Association of Realtors (NAR) changes.

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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.
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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.
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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.
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Real Estate Expert

Ben Poston

Broker | BK3350492

ben@viewtallahasseeproperties.com | (850) 408-1479

Let's Chat.

I'm sure you have questions and thoughts about the real estate process. I'd love to talk with you about what you've read here and help you along this path.
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www.viewtallahasseerealestate.com/team/ben-poston
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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!
We'll be right there with you, every step of the way.
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