For homeowners looking to buy or sell in the Potomac Region, working with a Realtor who can walk you through all the ins and outs of the market, highlight the pros and cons of various neighborhoods, and help educate you about what to expect throughout the process is extremely important.
We recently spoke with Nurit Coombe, owner and managing partner of The Agency DC in Bethesda, who shared her insights on market trends, advice for buyers and sellers, and the unique benefits of working with a boutique brokerage that offers a variety of services to homeowners.
For homeowners looking to make a move this year, Coombe notes that housing in the region is still a good investment. While interest rates will likely remain high and inventory remains low, she encourages clients to look for the best house for them rather than the best deal.
“We talk to potential clients about their needs, wants, lifestyle, what neighborhoods they see themselves living in, and their budget to help determine the best decision for their family,” says Coombe.
“Our biggest concern right now is the attainable housing proposal in Montgomery County, which aims to allow duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes in single-family home neighborhoods. While the proposal seeks to address the housing shortage and provide more options for middle-income residents, it may not achieve its goal of affordability due to high lot and construction costs. Additionally, this plan could disrupt the character of our beautiful neighborhoods by mixing different types of housing within the same street, and concerns remain about insufficient infrastructure, overcrowded schools, traffic congestion, and the potential reduction of property values,” she stresses.
When it comes to finding the right house, Coombe encourages clients to focus on the long term.
“We always say, you marry the house and you date the mortgage. The house is the place where you’re going to live for a long time. You can always refinance and make changes to the mortgage later.”
Coombe encourages buyers to be patient and not get frustrated. “If it takes a little longer to find the house that’s right for you, that’s okay. If you work with an agent who takes the time to understand what you’re looking for and is able to educate you on the different communities and neighborhoods you’re considering, you’ll find what you’re looking for.”
As for sellers, she says, don't put your life on hold waiting for interest rates to fall. “If you plan to sell within the next two years, it's never too early to start talking to a Realtor who can help you plan and prepare everything you need to get in order. Many of our clients begin decluttering and organizing two years in advance. It's never too early to call us for guidance.”
Coombe focuses on her team approach to help clients find the perfect home for them. “As a boutique brokerage, we offer full concierge service and a positive home buying experience to each of our clients. We work as a team to capitalize on each other’s strengths, expertise and resources. We do everything in-house, including professional videos, photography, social media and marketing, and all of our agents work full-time and have decades of experience.”
In addition, says Coombe, “We have established relationships with contractors, lenders, title companies, attorneys, estate sale representatives and other professionals in the community who can assist with the services our clients require. We aim to help homeowners maximize their sale price and minimize the hassle,” she stresses.
“My greatest joy is helping my clients make their real estate journey exciting and hassle-free, knowing we are here for them now and forever,” says Coombe. “Our clients become our friends and know they can always call us for anything they need, whether it's finding a contractor, choosing paint colors, or just enjoying our parties and community events for years to come.”
“We always say, you marry the house and you date the mortgage. Your home is the place where you’ll create memories for years, and you can always refinance and change the mortgage later.”