Today’s housing market is not one for the faint of heart. It is a complicated jungle even for the most experienced agents out there. This is why today’s episode focuses on being prepared, because as Steve says: “It’s not if, it’s when, and be prepared to pull the trigger.”When new homebuyers decide that they are ready to jump feet first into the market, more and more they are finding a market that is not very sympathetic to what they want. Homes are being sold faster than our prospective clients realize… often before the buyers have even had a chance to physically see the house. It is important to have a knowledgeable agent who knows the landscape of the market and can help to guide through the knowns and unknowns of buying a house.Be Prepared to Expect the UnexpectedIf you’re not prepared for how turbulent the current market is, representing first time home buyers can be discouraging. That house that they had set their sights on might be gone before they have a chance to meet with a lender, and even if you get the house there might not be any opportunity to negotiate any details past just the purchase. Being prepared in this market means getting ready before getting into the market at all. Here are some important tips to consider:Take time to be a real estate professional that is knowledgeable and experienced in the local market. A good agent will not only prepare clients for what to expect, but also guide them through the process and make sure all considerations are taken.Start preparing at least 90 to 120 days before clients are ready to look for a house. The more time you have to get paperwork prepped and lenders ready, the faster your reaction time when their dream house goes to market.Understand why they’re getting into the market in the first place. If your clients are first-time buyers, ask them questions like: are you considering what the future of your investment might hold? If they’re not a first timer, discuss: are you looking to buy so you can capitalize on the market for your current property? Opportunities to build wealth through your best asset, your home, is at an all-time high and something that an experienced agent will be able to guide their clients through.Remember to subscribe and leave a 5-star rating, as well as a review if you’d like us to talk about a subject or if you just want to let us know how much you like the podcast!Follow us on social media!Steve Valentine:  https://www.instagram.com/stevedvalentine/ Bernie Espinosa: https://www.instagram.com/bernzpix/