By Sharon Bloudek, August 29, 2024
Working with my Bridge to Portland Group teammate, Genmae Rianelli on our latest buyer transaction has been amazing and these clients have such a great story to share. As first-time buyers using a VA loan, Robert and Kady were eager to find a place to call their own, and we were just as eager to help them make that dream a reality.
Ready for a Change
This couple was referred to me by co-workers, who also happen to be a few of my past clients! . They were ready to jump into the homebuying process because they were tired of renting and wanted a fresh start in a new location so we were all determined to find them a home that truly felt right.
Our First Tours
Our goal for the first set tours was to show them a wide range of properties in the areas they were considering. It was important to us that we help them discover what really mattered most in their future home. By the end of the day, we had three strong contenders that stood out, giving us a clear direction for next steps.
Zeroing In
Genmae and I touched base with the listing agents of those top three homes to check in on activity levels and ensure we wouldn’t miss out on any opportunities. Knowing we had time to revisit them, we scheduled second tours and also added a few new properties into the mix just to be thorough. But as we walked through their favorites again, one property quickly rose above the rest.
Finding “The One”
This particular home had everything Robert and Kady were looking for. The spacious rooms and move-in-ready condition made it an easy choice, and it was clear they could picture themselves building a life there. After a final showing to confirm their decision, we knew it was time to move forward.
Navigating Negotiations
We submitted an offer at full list price with a seller credit to cover their closing costs—an essential move for first-time buyers. After some negotiating, we reached an agreement and were thrilled to get under contract! The next step was inspections, which mostly went smoothly. However, there was one unexpected hiccup: the A/C unit, which wasn’t performing as it should despite being relatively new.
We quickly called in one of our trusted HVAC companies and after some additional appointments, we were able to negotiate a few repairs with the sellers on top of the previous closing cost credits. Throughout the process, we kept in close communication with Robert and Kady’s lender and escrow officer to ensure everything stayed on track.
Closing Day Joy
Finally, the big day arrived! We were so excited to meet Robert and Kady at their new home, hand over the keys, and watch them take their first steps as homeowners. Their sweet dog Pluto joined in on the fun too, eagerly exploring every room to find his favorite spot. (TBD on whether the bathtub is the big winner!)
Now it’s time for Robert and Kady (and Pluto, too!) to settle in and make this house their home. Genmae and I couldn’t be happier for them and we wish them all the best as they start this new chapter!
Sharon Bloudek
Principal Broker | OR
She/Her
Sharon is a Licensed Principal Broker in Oregon with 17 years of experience in the real estate industry. With a Business Degree in Marketing/Management from Loyola Marymount University, an MBA from the University of Oregon, and international business studies at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark, Sharon brings a strategic and diverse perspective to her role.
Leading the #1 team at Living Room Realty alongside Beth Benner, Sharon has earned recognition in the top 1% of the RMLS and is a long-time member of PMAR's Masters Circle Diamond Platinum Level.
Sharon’s integrity, expertise, and commitment to excellence are what make her standout. She has served more than 450 homeowners over the years, leveraging her strong industry relationships and dedication to her clients to deliver exceptional results. Sharon is also an active participant in the local real estate investment scene, using her comprehensive market knowledge to inform her investment decisions.
Originally from Southern California, Sharon has called Portland home for 20 years. Beyond her real estate career, she has served as a Board Member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest, has a passion for pickleball, basketball, and softball, and enjoys a fulfilling family life with her three children.
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- T: 503-701-1000
- sharon@bridgetoportland.com
