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Consulting a REALTOR®

REALTORS® are members of National Association of Realtors who subscribe to a Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice. I am also a member of the Wisconsin Realtors Association and Northwoods Association of realtors.

• A REALTOR® will fully explain the details of your working relationship (called "agency") so that you are clear as to when a REALTOR® is working for you or for the seller.
• A REALTOR® has access to hundreds of current listings of homes for sale because of a co- operative system called the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®).
• A REALTOR® can provide you with a customized list of homes that best meet your needs -- size, style, features, location, proximity to schools, shopping, etc. - and then make arrangements for you to view those homes that appeal to you the most.
• A REALTOR® will help you determine how big a home you can afford.
REALTORs® are familiar with the local lending market and can offer helpful advice.
• A REALTOR® has no emotional ties to any type or style of home and can be objective in pointing out the merits of one home over another.
• A REALTOR® will have information on zoning changes, taxes, utility costs and school and recreation services that could affect your decision to buy a home in a specific area.
• A REALTOR® will assist you in negotiating the terms of your purchase, which can be a nerve- wracking process for someone who is not experienced in negotiating.
• A REALTOR® will advise you of the legal process required in obtaining title and taking possession of your property; the costs associated with buying a home such as insurance, mortgage registration and legal fees will be explained in detail.

Source: National Association of Realtors

Selling Your Home - Why it Pays to Use a REALTOR®

Before selling your home, you will need a clear understanding of the legal issues and potential pitfalls. One wrong action could result in a lot of cost and frustration, which is why it is essential to have a REALTOR® working with you, as he or she will make the sale of your home a successful and satisfying experience.

REALTORS® use the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) to give your home maximum exposure. MLS® is a computer-based system that relays valuable information about your home to hundreds of REALTORS® and potential homebuyers.

Setting a price for your home is an important but difficult process. Again, this is where the services of a REALTOR® prove invaluable. REALTORS® have the experience to help you understand how the market works and decide upon a realistic price that meets your goals. REALTORS® also pre-screen potential buyers to make sure only those who are serious and financially qualified view your home.

REALTORS® will also develop a marketing plan to help your property receive maximum exposure. This will likely include placing your home on the MLS® system and placing a "For Sale" sign on the front lawn. The plan will likely also include arranging open houses for other REALTORS® and potential buyers, and developing advertisements and feature sheets/mailers to market your home.

Once you have accepted an offer to buy your home, your REALTOR® will help ensure that all the proper paperwork is completed. He or she will also make sure that both parties meet the necessary conditions outlined in the agreement.

When you work with a REALTOR® you will likely get a better price for your home than if you try to sell it yourself. Apart from the financial benefits, however, there is an extra measure of comfort and security that comes from having a REALTOR® on your side. Remember that REALTORS® are governed by a code of ethics and standards of business practice. They have also been trained and licensed under the provincial Real Estate Services Act to assist in transactions involving real property. When it comes to buying or selling property, using a REALTOR® just makes sense.

Source: National Associations of Realtors

I was born and raised in Tomahawk and a graduate of Tomahawk High School. Upon graduation, I joined the United States Air Force and wanted to see the world. After 4 ½ years on active duty, I decided to come back to Wisconsin and live here. Transferring to the Air Force Reserve, I could live here and still serve my country. While living here, I worked for Tomahawk Log and Country Homes. After a few years, I was back full-time working for the Air Force Reserves and was activated for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Once we were off activation, my wife Nicole, daughter Madilyn and son Zach moved back to Tomahawk and I switched over to the Wisconsin Air National Guard. While living in the northwoods, I worked in sales for Tomahawk Lumber and Wausau Homes.

I was drawn to real estate, because I love working with customers. Every sale or listing is unique, and no two days are the same. I will work with sellers to get their property sold, and with buyers to find what they are looking for. Customer satisfaction is very important to me, and with all the tools we have here at Northwoods Community Realty, I believe we can make that happen!

Community involvement is also a very big part of my life. Currently I coach the Girls JV2 Volleyball Team for Tomahawk High School. Also serve as Assistant Director of the Northern Wisconsin Stars Volleyball Club and 13’s head coach. On the Board of Directors for the Kwahamot Water Ski club, along with driving the twin rig tow boat. Along with serving in the Wisconsin Air National Guard and member of our local VFW post.

Keith Hanse is licensed to sell real estate in the state of Wisconsin.