back to archive'Meet the Agent' - Carrie Thatcher from Rego Sotheby's International Realty
This month for 'Meet the Agent', we interview Carrie Thatcher, a Real Estate Agent from Rego Sotheby's International Realty. Carrie brings her previous expereince of selling properties in Los Angeles, California, to jump back into the real estate estate industry with Rego Sotheby's International here in Bermuda. Carrie discusses her excitement of being back in the industry with Rego Sotheby's International Realty, the competitive local market for sales and rentals as well as some excellent and thorough tips for buyers and sellers in the currenty market.How long have you been in the business? Well, technically it's been almost 20 years since I first dived into the world of real estate! Back then, in my late 20s and early 30s, I had the incredible opportunity to sell properties in the vibrant neighborhoods of Los Angeles, CA. From Beverly Hills to West Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, Los Feliz, and Silverlake, I got to immerse myself in a market teeming with amazing homes across various price ranges. Those years were truly formative, and I learned the ins and outs of the business while working with some incredible properties in a fiercely competitive market with some super cool clients. After spending a few years living in Bermuda, I decided to obtain my real estate license here. Since then, I've primarily worked as a referral agent, but I've missed the hands-on interaction with clients and the thrill of being a part of property transactions. The experiences and knowledge I gained in Los Angeles, combined with my time in Bermuda, have shaped me into a well-rounded and relatable real estate agent. It feels like the perfect time to jump back in!
Why do you like working for Rego Sotheby's International Realty and what’s your favorite part of your job? Working for Rego Sotheby’s is a joy. The office team and agents are exceptional in their knowledge and expertise. It's been rejuvenating and exciting to immerse myself back into the real estate industry. Rediscovering the real estate industry after a brief hiatus is an invigorating experience. The excitement of connecting with clients, being their trusted partner, and confidant is an awesome feeling. Working together to navigate the intricacies of the market and finding the perfect property for buyers or the perfect buyers for my sellers, is a rewarding journey that has given me renewed motivation. The opportunity to make a positive impact in clients' lives by creating a vibrant atmosphere fuels the excitement of being back in the real estate game. I also enjoy being witness to the creative transformations people have made to their homes.
Where are you seeing activity in the market at the moment? The current market conditions pose a challenge for potential buyers and renters due to the low inventory and high demand. With a limited number of available and affordable properties, the market becomes highly competitive. This means that there are many prospective buyers and renters vying for the same properties, leading to increased competition, and potentially driving up prices. In such a competitive market, it's essential for buyers and renters to be proactive and prepared.
What is your favorite property on the market right now? There are fabulous properties on the market right now, but I am not sure that I could pick just one as my favorite. I love bright, airy, and open spaces. Big floor to ceiling windows and doors, with views of the ocean or Harbour with a beachy aesthetic are what appeals most to me. I enjoy bright colors and tropical fixtures and furnishings that exude a relaxed, coastal aesthetic. In my previous life living in a big city, I favored mid-century modern properties with its architectural simplicity and minimalism, however living in Bermuda has shifted my preference towards a more casual, comfortable, and inviting environment that warmly welcomes people into my space. It's about finding that perfect balance between the peaceful island lifestyle and personal sense of style.
How do you see the Bermuda property market over the next 12 months? Predicting the future of the property market is challenging as it is influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, government policies, and market dynamics. Market trends can fluctuate, and unforeseen events may impact the overall trajectory. As a realtor, it is my job to stay on top of the changes, keep a sharp eye on the properties that are available and educate my sellers and buyers about the trends. Bermuda is a niche market with limited available land to build, so there will likely always be a lower inventory than some other jurisdictions.
What are your top 3 tips for purchasers when looking for a potential new home?
1) Determine Your Budget: Before you begin your search, it's crucial to establish a budget and understand your financial capabilities. Consider your income, savings, and any additional costs associated with homeownership, such as stamp duty, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. By setting a realistic budget, you'll have a clear idea of the price range you can afford, which will help narrow down your options and prevent you from overextending yourself financially.
2) Define Your Needs and Prioritize: Before starting your search, it's crucial to define your needs and prioritize them. Consider factors such as location, size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, proximity to schools or work, and any specific features or amenities you require. Understanding your priorities will help you narrow down your options and focus on homes that meet your essential criteria. Being creative and having vision are also essential qualities when it comes to transforming a home that may not initially appear ideal. It's all about being able to see the hidden potential and envision what it could become. Sometimes, a property might not perfectly align with your initial preferences, but with a touch of creativity, it can be transformed into a space that suits your needs and desires. Having the ability to see beyond the surface and imagine the possibilities is incredibly valuable.
3) Engage Professionals and Inspect Thoroughly: It's essential to involve professionals throughout the purchasing process. Hire a reputable and enthusiastic real estate agent who understands the importance of communication. They can guide you, provide expert advice, and negotiate on your behalf. When you find a potential home, have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified home inspector who can identify any structural, electrical, or plumbing issues that may exist.
When it comes to buying or selling a home, it's important to have fun, learn, and feel satisfied throughout the process. Teaming up with someone who knows their stuff and understands the ups and downs that can come with real estate is your best bet. Look for someone who's knowledgeable and experienced, but also empathetic and supportive.
Finally – do you have any good tips for sellers when preparing their home for sale?
1) Declutter and Depersonalize. When preparing your home for sale, decluttering and depersonalizing are key. Remove any unnecessary items, such as excess furniture, personal decorations, and cluttered countertops. This will make your space appear more open and allow potential buyers to envision themselves living in the home. Additionally, remove any personal photographs or highly personalized items to create a neutral and welcoming atmosphere.
2) Basic Improvements. It will only increase the value of your home if you can address any outstanding necessary repairs and/or improvements ahead of listing your home. Consider making strategic upgrades or improvements that can add value to your home, such as fresh paint, updated hardware, or energy-efficient upgrades.
3) Staging. If you have a unique style or an empty property, you might want to think about neutrally staging your home. This can help highlight its best features and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Try rearranging furniture to make the most of the space and improve the flow. Adding tasteful decorations, accessories and artwork can also help create inviting areas that potential buyers can easily picture themselves in.
4) Clean! A clean and fresh home is essential when preparing for sale, especially in Bermuda where homes get quite damp very quickly. Deep clean every room, including carpets, windows, and appliances. Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms, as these areas are often scrutinized by potential buyers. Consider freshening up the home with fresh flowers for showings.
To Contact Carrie Thatcher:E-Mail: cthatcher@regosir.com
or Phone: +1 (441) 599-6780
