In 2013, Nika Jusufi returned to Detroit from NYC to buy a home. While Detroit housing and its prices were welcoming, it’s real estate agents were less enthusiastic. They weren’t returning her calls. And if they did, it was days late. When she finally scheduled a showing with an agent, he stood her up!
Nika Jusufi
Sounds absurd, right? Sometimes the universe forces a situation to force a result—which is our way of saying “For the sake of general humanity, let’s hope the situation wasn’t that bad.”
In this case, it ended on a good note. Nika saw an opportunity in her frustrations and got into the business herself. Five years later, she’s one of Detroit’s top-selling agents.
What’s her secret? “I’m working in a city that I love. I meet interesting people and hear their stories. Each day is usually very different than the last.”
It also helps that routine scares the hell out of her. A bonus for someone whose job is a bit of choose your own adventure. Perhaps the difference between an okay and a great real estate agent can be found in their desire to learn about buildings and people.
In Nika’s case, both fuel her— “Detroit is resilient and the opportunity for growth is tremendous.”
Are you a homeowner? Looking to purchase? With spring is quickly turning into summer AKA full-blown real estate season, we asked Nika to share some tips for first time Detroit home buyers.
1. Know Your Agent
Work with an Agent that you trust. An agent that understands the market in Detroit, is professional and responsive. This is everything!
2. Get Pre Approved
(If you plan to finance)
Work with a reputable lender that has closed loans in Detroit. This market moves fast and you don’t want to miss out on your dream property because of a competitive situation because you aren’t pre-approved!
3. Explore
Check out houses, condos—spend time in the neighborhoods. You may think you know exactly what you want, but why not be open to other possibilities? You may end up loving a property you may not have considered, or it may help you feel more confident when you do choose the one you wanted from the start.
4. Make an Offer
When you find something you love, move on it! Your agent should provide you with a market valuation of the home and discuss terms prior to drafting the deal. If it’s a multiple offer situation, there are many ways an agent can put a strong offer together, so that you win.
5. Do Your Due Diligence
When you go under contract, one of the most important milestones is the inspection period. Coordinate your inspections, review title work and contact the city to have a better understanding of what your future taxes will be. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!
Have questions? Need an agent? Check out Nika’s social media or visit her website to follow listings.
