This past month has brought some good things to the market, especially here in the Heights. Traffic at Open Houses is up and people are looking. We even are seeing decent closings and everyone seems to be understating that now is decent time to sell or buy.

The one thing that seems to be a surprise to some is that half the time going through title and finance is not a cake walk like it was. So what to do about it? First don’t let it throw you. These things usually are nothing in the long run. They are just things that will take some extra time. Second, remember that you can always say “What is this?”

If you are a Realtor, prep your clients that we are in a new world with changing regulations and approaches occurring almost every day. Let them know that a closing date may have to move or an appraisal may take some work and time. Tell your buyers that when securing a mortgage, they need to only use someone who has years of experience and knows what it takes to get things done. Tell your sellers to plan on a couple of road bumps along the way. Explain that change is never easy and that in some instances the play book is not quite written.

If you are a buyer, realize that you need to select someone to help you with your mortgage that you or your Realtor knows has the knowledge and tools to clear out the questions and warn you of upcoming needs. In other words be sure you are working with a good guide who has a good map. In this environment it is not best to work with your brother-in-laws, best friend’s sister who is at XYX Brokers. And do not assume that just because they have a branch on every corner that brand X bank is what you are looking for in your mortgage search. Ask your realtor who has been the best at getting things done at a a reasonable price over the last 6 months. They know who is up to it!