When it comes to buying luxury real estate, there are many tips and tricks that you will commonly hear about how to make the most of the transactions. However, there are a few things to know that are not talked about as frequently that can help you get a leg up and allow you to have the best real estate transactions possible. In no particular order, here are six things to keep in mind when you are interested in buying luxury real estate
1. Defining “luxury”
Napa luxury real estate is going to look different depending on who you ask. For some people, luxury simply means having at least a 3,000-square-foot home with a fully renovated interior and a sprawling oasis for a yard. For others, luxury may mean having a minimum of 10 bedrooms and a glass elevator in the foyer. When looking at properties that are categorized as luxury homes, it is important to be specific with what you are looking for. Be sure to give your real estate agent a clear idea of what, exactly, you are looking for. This list could include anything from architectural style to the layout of the rooms – whatever features you need your luxury home to have.
The fact that this category of real estate is subjective makes it all the more important to work with an agent who specializes in luxury properties. They will understand that it looks different depending on who is being asked and will know how to find you what you are looking for and not waste your time with listings that do not fit the bill.
2. Location takes precedent
It is common knowledge that when it comes to real estate, location is everything. However, not all buyers will put location above the actual property. With luxury real estate, location is truly what matters. After all, you can always custom-design your dream home on any plot of land, but you will not be able to change the surrounding views or amenities. Location is what truly determines the lifestyle you will have and can be the determining factor in how much your home value will appreciate over the years. Now, this is not to say that you should buy a property that you do not connect with for the sake of location, but it can be helpful to remind yourself that you can always make any changes to the structure that you so desire.
3. A calmer market
On average, the real estate market tends to shift unpredictably, with prices rising and falling depending on the time of year and various factors playing a role in supply and demand. With luxury real estate, on the other hand, things tend to be a bit calmer.
Napa luxury homes for sale could never be considered “average” real estate and are in a class of their own. Buyers and sellers in this market are less abundant than those looking for more modest properties and are less affected by the recent shifts in interest rates.
Those who buy and sell in the luxury market do so only when they are ready and not because the market demands it. This way, there is much less urgency and a smaller, refined selection of available properties.
4. Private listings
Many sellers in the luxury real estate market prefer to have their properties listed privately instead of making the listings available to the public. Not only does it help them to maintain some privacy, but it ensures that only those who are serious about buying can come in for a showing. This is one of the many reasons why it can be crucial to work with an experienced real estate agent when you are searching for luxury homes. Your real estate agent will be able to see all of the private listings in the area and can schedule a showing for you to see the property in person. Having this exclusive access can allow you to make an early offer and gives you access to properties that unrepresented buyers will never know about.
5. The importance of tours
It is no secret that buying property is a big investment, but not all buyers realize the importance of taking an in-person tour can have when it comes to luxury homes. While viewing a property online (either through pictures or a virtual tour) gives you a solid sense of what a property is like, it does not give you the clearest possible idea of what the home truly feels like. It is understandable not to have in-person tours if you are a buyer located out of state or internationally. Still, it is always a good idea to take a full tour of a property before making an offer. No matter what your schedule or situation, your realtor will be able to help you get in the door.
6. Negotiate
When making an offer on a luxury property, do not be afraid to negotiate for what you want. There is much more negotiation seen in these transactions compared to the average real estate sale, and it is even expected in many cases. Your real estate agent will have expert negotiating experience that they will use on your behalf and will know the best ways to get you what you are looking for. Additionally, your agent will be able to advise you on the specific types of negotiations and tell you about the most common negotiations that have been agreed to in situations similar to yours.
Work with the best
Sierra Pujals is a real estate professional who specializes in luxury properties. She has a strong passion for the industry and loves helping her clients find their next dream homes. Not to mention, her background in hospitality makes her an expert communicator and allows her to better negotiate great deals on your behalf. Whether you are looking to buy or sell real estate, Sierra would be more than happy to meet with you to discuss your plans.