Typically, there are two categories of buyers shopping for homes:

• those who know exactly what and where they want to buy a house or apartment, and
• those who know their needs for housing but are not sure what they can afford and where exactly they want to live (for instance, some neighborhoods are perfect for young families with small children and might be considered too noisy by those whose children are already out of the house)

So, when a new client asks me to help him or her with finding a house or apartment (sometimes, they are not sure what they want or what they can afford), my first job is to listen and to ask questions.  The questions and answers session helps me to understand what the family wants and can afford (from the price range to the number of bedrooms and bathrooms to the style of the house to the proximity to New York City or houses of worship, etc.)

Very often the initial session helps us to re-formulate the desirable housing and make the goal more realistic and practical.

For those whose are not set yet on a particular neighborhood, I usually offer tours around the area (with me being a driver and a guide).

After the goal is formulated, I continuously send my clients via email the listings of the properties that have just come of the market.  My clients keep receiving new listings for as long as they are interested in seeing them.

As a rule, I am available to my clients to show them one or more properties at a time any time they want, Monday through Sunday.  If they are coming from New York City by train and have no car, I meet them at a train station.

When my clients ready to make an offer, we discuss in detail how much should they offer and under what conditions.   After that, I assist my clients with (or, sometimes, represent the clients in) negotiations with the seller of the property.

If asked, I provide my clients with the list of several reputable local engineering inspection companies, mortgage brokers and attorneys.

All my clients know that they can call me for advice virtually any time, 7 days a week.

My friendship with those who purchased homes with my assistance never ends at closing.  For those who moved to Westchester from the far, I am the most trusted adviser on many things, for example:

• What is where (from a supermarket to a drycleaner to good restaurants to doctors’ offices)
• Where to buy stylish and affordable furniture and clothes
• Which food supermarkets are better than others
• What are the best known local restaurants
• Names of family and specialty doctors and dentists.

If you are planning to move to Westchester, let’s talk.  In me you will find a trusted advisor, knowledgeable professional and a good friend.  Please call me at (914) 714-2955 or email me at alona@alonashomes.com. 

No message received until 10 PM, Monday through Sunday will remain unanswered until the next day.