The Real Estate Process: Pros Discuss Buying & Selling Your Home

Buying or selling your home - this is an inside look at what these pros do for you - real estate agent - lawyer - home inspector - home stager.

Find out how this experienced real estate agent works for you. Get the real story on Open Houses - are there any risks? Could it be the dinosaur of real estate? You go to sign legal documents and don't always ask all the questions. This lawyer clearly spells out each step that is taken to protect you in the sale or purchase of your home. You are advised to have a home inspection. Perhaps your Uncle Fred can take a look at the house? Think again after you hear from this professional home inspector. You are placing your home on the market. Does it look its best? This home stager will give you an idea of how a simple consultation or a staging can get you a faster sale and often a higher price.

With the information they have provided, these four pros empower the consumer when buying or selling a home.

About the Authors:
Vi Brown, B.A. is a highly knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent with a diverse background in business and real estate. She not only walks you through each step of the process but provides some invaluable insights into traditional real estate practices that are worth considering. Vi Brown has been a REALTOR(R) and Broker in both Ontario and British Columbia and has 20 years of experience. She also has a serious interest in writing and editing. Presently, she is based in Victoria, BC with DFH Real Estate Ltd.

Kelly Orr, LL.B. has two loves - law and music. To her law practice she brings a sensitivity to clarity. She ensures that her clients understand the implications of the legal process and has translated legal language into every day understandable terms. She provides a great opportunity for the consumer to become more knowledgeable. Kelly Orr is a graduate from the University of Victoria in British Columbia, had her own law practice specializing in real estate and land development for 15 years, and is presently practicing with Browne Associates.

Robert Hughes brings his no nonsense approach to home inspections by detailing what is involved in the process. He tells you what he does and what he doesn't do during the course of an inspection and demonstrates a high standard of workmanship. Robert Hughes was certified as an Engineering Technologist in 1987 through Ryerson University in Toronto, has an extensive background in both construction and engineering, and is licensed in the Province of British Columbia, a Registered Home Inspector, member of the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI) for the last 5 years, and a past member of the National Certification Program for Home and Property Inspectors.

Josee Lalonde brings creativity to this newer discipline in real estate. She discusses how a small investment in home staging can bring about higher returns. Josee brings a passion to her work but doesn't lose track of the practical dimensions. Josee is a certified Canadian Staging Professional working with both clients and REALTORS(R) in Victoria, British Columbia.