“I started in the real estate business over 20 years ago,” Roe says. “I spent about 15 of those years with the Wyman Group. When my children left home and I became an empty nester, I opened Heartland. Owning a business is a lot like having a baby. We put people first. Technology is great, but what really counts is listening to an individual’s opinions and developing a one-on-one relationship between client and agent. A client that spends $100,000 is just as important to us as someone who spends $500,000.”
All the agents at Heartland are licensed in Indiana, so they can work with and represent anyone throughout the state. There are multiple listing services throughout the various regions but the internet makes real estate information accessible to all. Roe makes sure that all the properties the agency is involved with have up-to-date information on nationwide sites such as Zillow, Trulia and Realtor.com.
The current real estate market in Kokomo reflects a nationwide situation. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country, many areas were experiencing a shortage of available housing. As a result, buyer behavior has become extremely competitive and many listed homes sell in a matter of days.
“It has been a seller’s market like I’ve never seen before,” Roe says. “Low inventory ignited an extremely competitive sellers’ market. Buyers have been aggressive during negotiations in order to get their offer accepted. It’s not like it was in 2010 after the crash, when a buyer could get more bang for their buck. Back then, someone could offer $100,000 for a $120,000 house, and the seller would pay closing costs and provide new appliances.”
“There is a little turning though,” Roe says. “Interest rates have risen and we are seeing inventory increase. Kokomo’s home prices are still some of the most affordable in the state. In most cases is it more financially beneficial to own your own home in the long run versus renting.”
Roe recently received an “At Home With Diversity” designation after taking online courses offered by the National Association of Realtors. She and her staff at Heartland serve a diverse clientele. They welcome everyone regardless of economic status or cultural differences.
“Kokomo is a city with a small-town feel,” Roe says. “You are never too far removed from someone you know. It’s an awesome place to raise kids and filled with kind people who want to help others.”
For more info on Heartland Real Estate Brokers, call 765-271-6875 or visit them online at heartlandrealestatebrokers.com.