There’s a reason real estate teams tell stories — sometimes the loudest lessons come through lived experience. In Storytime 12, The Van Gundy Team shares a cautionary tale about doing things yourself to save money — and the hidden costs that often lurk behind that decision.

When it comes to buying a new home, most people focus on price, mortgage rates, and location. But there’s another powerful tool that often flies under the radar: builder or developer credits at closing. These are incentives offered by the builder that can help buyers save thousands of dollars—if you know how to negotiate for them.

In "Story Time 9: Sellers Just Made Santa's Naughty List... What Happens Next?" , the Van Gundy Team delves into a real-life scenario where sellers fail to honor their contractual commitments, leading to significant consequences. This cautionary tale highlights the importance of adhering to agreements in real estate transactions.

In Story Time 8: When Sellers Get GREEDY! We walk through a true-to-life scenario in real estate where a seller’s expectations spiral out of balance, complicating or even derailing the transaction. Here’s how it all plays out, and the key takeaways you’ll want to keep in mind if you ever find yourself crossing paths with a “greedy” seller.

Buying a home is exciting, offers, inspections, plans, hope, but there’s one moment that can bring everything to a screeching halt: when the appraisal comes in lower than the contract price.

In the world of real estate, emotions can run high. The stakes are often significant, and when buyers and sellers collide, the situation can escalate quickly. One of the most crucial lessons I’ve learned is that your ego is not your amigo. This principle can make or break a deal, especially when it comes to negotiation and handling objections. Let's delve into why maintaining perspective is vital and how it can save you from losing a fortune over minor issues.

In the dynamic world of real estate, navigating contracts can be both challenging and rewarding. I want to share a compelling story that illustrates the importance of understanding contracts, especially when faced with unexpected situations. This story not only highlights the significance of legal knowledge but also demonstrates strategic thinking when the unexpected arises.

As I prepare to close on my new home, I can't emphasize enough the importance of conducting a final walkthrough. This process is not just a formality; it’s a vital step that can save you from potential headaches and expenses down the line. In this blog, I'll share insights on what to check during a walkthrough, real-life experiences that highlight its significance, and preventative measures to ensure a smooth closing process.

Real estate is often seen as a straightforward profession, filled with contracts, negotiations, and property showings. However, my experiences have shown me that it can also lead to unexpected situations that require quick thinking and compassion. In this narrative, I want to share a particularly memorable incident that highlights the human side of real estate, reminding us that we are not just agents, but also friends and support systems for our clients.