Heather Radford

If I were to give advice to a buyer trying to purchase a home, it would be to stay patient and prepared. The real estate market can be competitive, so having your finances in order and finding a lender you trust early on, gives you an edge. Also, make sure to hire a knowledgeable agent who can guide you through the process, protect your interests, and help spot potential red flags. Lastly, don’t skip important steps like home inspections or reviewing the neighborhood trends—these can save you money and ensure your long-term happiness with the property. Trust your instincts but rely on expert advice when making such a significant investment.

If I were to advise a seller trying to sell their home, I’d recommend focusing on preparation and pricing. First, make sure your home is in top shape by addressing any needed repairs and enhancing curb appeal. Small improvements like a fresh coat of paint or updated landscaping can make a big difference. Second, price it correctly from the start. Pricing your home to match your timeline and financial goals is the best practice. Lastly, work with an experienced real estate agent who knows your market and can guide you through marketing strategies, negotiations, and closing. A well-prepared home, combined with expert guidance, will help you achieve the best results in your sale.

When asked about the types of clients I’ve worked with, I’d say that over my many years in real estate, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients—buyers, sellers, and investors, each with their own unique goals and needs. No two transactions have been the same, which has helped me grow as a professional. I’ve worked with first-time homebuyers to sellers of large estates, handled short sales and foreclosures, and guided investors on multifamily properties, fix-and-flips, short-term rentals, and 1031 exchanges. Additionally, I’ve worked with out-of-town clients buying sight unseen, represented buyers in new construction transactions, and even collaborated with builders. Having been in a leadership role on a team of talented agents, I’ve gained invaluable insight from various negotiation styles and countless transactions. This breadth of experience has shaped my approach and allows me to adapt to any situation.

One of my most rewarding transactions was with a wonderful first-time homebuyer who had always dreamed of owning a home but doubted it was possible on a single income. She had lived her life as a renter and wasn’t sure if homeownership was within her reach. Her journey to buy her first home was long and filled with challenges—there were multiple setbacks and delays throughout the process. However, we tackled each issue one by one, and her determination never wavered. In the end, she became the proud owner of her very own home, getting it for a great price with little down. Seeing her take such a big step in her life, despite the obstacles, was incredibly rewarding. She’s now working on making the home her own, and I look forward to helping her make smart improvements that will add value to her investment. When the time comes, I’ll be there to guide her with her next real estate goals. It’s transactions like this that make me love what I do—helping people achieve what they thought was impossible.

I got started in real estate in 2012, shortly after my second child was born. Before that, I was working in banking and really enjoyed helping people with their finances. However, I didn’t love being away from my boys for 10 hours a day, nor did I appreciate the limitations imposed by banking policies when trying to assist my customers. After many late nights of studying, I decided to cash in my 401(k) to take my real estate course and exam. It was a leap into the deep end, but I’ve never looked back. Working in real estate is truly what I love; I get to work closely with people and have the freedom to make a significant difference in what is often their largest purchase or sale. I’m committed to being a lifelong student of this business, continuously learning and applying my knowledge to benefit every client. Sometimes, that means advising clients not to buy or sell at a given time if it isn’t in their best interest. I take great pride in being a trusted advisor throughout their journey.

Yes, I have special training and education that significantly benefits my clients. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being part of teams that allowed me to learn from some of the best agents in the business. This experience has equipped me with valuable insights into effective negotiation tactics, working through complex transactions and I have had comprehensive education about the real estate market. Additionally, my background in banking gives me a solid understanding of loan products and the financing aspects of home buying, which is crucial for guiding my clients through their options. I also have training in Coaching Skills, which helps me truly connect with my clients and the agents on my team. This training has taught me the importance of setting aside my own needs and wants. I believe that every person we work with is complete and has the answers within them; our role is to understand their goals and guide them rather than impose our ideas of what’s best. By combining these skills and insights, I can offer my clients a well-rounded and empathetic approach, ensuring that they feel supported throughout their real estate journey.