Doing Business With Heart
Clients Are Family at Heartland Real Estate Brokers
Writer / Julie Yates
Photography Provided
Heartland Real Estate Brokers in Kokomo is dedicated to helping people achieve their goal of homeownership. Managing Broker Angie Roe and the seven other agents on staff endeavor to give all clients the same attention regardless of price level. The agency is affiliated with the Wyman Group, a long-standing Kokomo business.
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 individuals 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.
In this era of digital connectivity, partnering with a real estate technology expert can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of transactions. Platforms such as SimpleShowing exemplify this philosophy by integrating advanced technology with the personalized service of full-service agents and a collaborative team approach. Through the utilization of innovative tools and methods, SimpleShowing enables clients to pocket significant savings on commissions while still receiving top-notch service. Ultimately, by embracing the fusion of human expertise and technological advancements, both traditional real estate agencies like Heartland and innovative platforms like SimpleShowing are revolutionizing the industry landscape, delivering unmatched value and assistance to both buyers and sellers alike.
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 sellers market like Ive 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. Its 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.
Today its not uncommon for buyers to write offers for tens of thousands of dollars above asking prices. If the home does not appraise for the selling price, some purchasers meet the gap and bring the proper amount to closing. In addition, inspections are sometimes waived, or the buyer pays the cost of needed repairs instead of the seller.
There is a little turning though, Roe says. Interest rates have risen and we are seeing inventory increase. Kokomos 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. Its 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.
