back to archive'Meet the Agent' - Erna DeGraff - MainPoint Real Estate
This month for ‘Meet the Agent’ we interview Erna DeGraff - Broker/Owner & Appraiser at MainPoint Real Estate Ltd. Erna has a wealth of experience in the industry as both a property appraiser and as broker. Erna discusses the key factors when valuing a property, circumstances why you may require an appraisal on your home and why she enjoys working in the Real Estate Industry.
How long have you been a real estate agent? I have been a real estate agent for approximately 10 years and an appraiser for longer.
Where do you work? MainPoint Real Estate Ltd is my baby. It was a big step to take but a step I was determined to make. I have been in the industry for over 13 years at another agency and worked at Bermuda Government years before. I am grateful for the excellent foundation and experience that I have gained over 20+ years. The opportunity to venture on my own was indeed possible. I am excited to put all my hard work, energy, enthusiasm, gumption and much prayer into this. It’s worth it.
What is the favorite part of your job? I remember as a teenager – no one wanted a job that you had to sit in the office all day. Most of us then, including me, desired a job that enabled you to be inside and outside. As an Agent and an Appraiser I get to do both. I love to visit properties, admire the architectural beauty, learn the tuck away streets in Bermuda and so much more as I travel from the east to the west.
What is one tip you would give prospects when looking for their Home? Always be open-minded when searching for your home. You may not always get what you want. Identify your ‘needs’ and your ‘wants’. Sometimes, you have to be creative in making that house work for you. You could always extend, upgrade, and make the house your own over the years.
What is an Appraisal? An appraisal determines the estimated market value of your home, condominium, commercial property, vacant land or estate.
What are some of the reasons people would need an Appraisal?An Appraisal is required for several reasons. A few of the popular ones are for banking purposes (buying a property); probate purposes (when a loved one has died and their property has to be assessed for stamp duty purposes); matrimonial purposes (divorce settlement); estate planning (voluntary conveyance) and if you desire to know the value of your property for yourself.
What are your top 3 aspects when determining a value on a property? Location, of course is always one. Condition - internally and externally is an important criterion. The better maintained the better the value. Last of all, size of house and size of land.
What do you think of propertyskipper.com (we promise not to edit!)? I always share propertyskipper.com to prospects/people and believe it or not people still have not heard about this great tool and its effectiveness. I will do my part to get the word out! (ed. - Thanks Erna - we appreciate you spreading the word)
Erna’s Contact Details:
Erna DeGraff, BA, BSc, M.R.I.C.S.
Agent Contact Details: +1-441-335-0984
Website: http://www.mainpointrealestate.com
