Real Estate FAQs for Northern Colorado Buyers & Sellers

Buying or selling a home comes with a lot of questions, we’ll help you create clarity through this process.

Below are clear, straightforward answers to the most common topics our clients ask about. If you don’t see your question here, please reach out anytime.

Working Together with Clay and Joel

  • What areas do you serve?

    Clay and Joel primarily serve Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins, Timnath, Windsor, Severance, Loveland, Berthoud, Longmont, Boulder, Denver Metro, and surrounding communities.

  • What makes your approach different?

    Why We Work Better Together

    Great partnerships work because of balance - and ours is no exception.

    Clay brings creativity, design sensibility, and an intuitive understanding of how homes should feel and present.

    Joel brings analytical thinking, market insight, and a steady, strategic approach to every decision. Together, we offer clients both perspective and precision - instinct paired with insight.

  • Do you work with both buyers and sellers?

    Yes. We provide full-service representation for buyers, sellers, relocation clients, and those exploring investment opportunities.

  • Where do meetings take place?

    Most meetings take place at The Group’s Timnath office, an inviting space with a complimentary full-service barista and private meeting rooms. As a seller, you can expect a separate appointment in your home so we can create an accurate pricing strategy.

  • Do you have a team?

    Yes. In addition to our expert guidance, you’ll be supported by a dedicated transaction coordinator, our personal assistant, and a non-competing managing broker.

BUYING A HOME

  • How competitive is the Northern Colorado market?

    Competitiveness varies by neighborhood and price point. We provide real-time data, buyer strategies, and negotiation planning so you enter the market fully prepared.

  • Do you help first-time buyers?

    Absolutely. We specialize in helping first-time buyers understand the process, from financing to contract details—in a clear, low-pressure way.

  • Do I need a pre-approval before viewing homes?

    A pre-approval helps determine your buying power and strengthens your position when writing offers. We can recommend reputable local lenders.

  • How quickly can I start seeing homes?

    Often within 24 hours. Our transaction team helps coordinate showings quickly based on your schedule.

  • What if I’m relocating to Northern Colorado?

    We offer virtual tours, neighborhood breakdowns, school information, and tailored relocation support to help you get oriented before you arrive.

  • Do you help with new construction purchases?

    Yes. We guide you through builder contracts, upgrades, timelines, and inspections, ensuring you have representation during the entire build process.

SELLING A HOME

  • How do you determine the best list price?

    Clay and Joel use the FocusFirst™ pricing strategy, analyzing micro-market trends, buyer behavior, and competitive positioning to identify the optimal price band for maximum return.

  • Do you provide professional photography and video?

    Yes. Every listing includes high-quality photography, cinematic video, and aerial drone footage for elevated presentation.

  • Will my home be staged?

    We provide preparation guidance and can connect you with professional stagers. Often, minor improvements and expert editing make the biggest difference.

  • How long does it take to sell a home?

    Timeline varies by property type, seasonality, and competition. We provide an honest expectation upfront and adjusts strategy as needed.

  • How do showings work?

    We coordinate showings through your preferred schedule through ShowingTime. You’ll receive weekly feedback and updates.

  • Do I need to be present at showings?

    No. Buyers view the home with their agent. Together we manage access and oversee the process.

HOMES & HOUNDS INITIATIVE

  • What is the Homes & Hounds Initiative?

    Homes & Hounds is Joel’s mission-driven impact program. With every closing, we donate a portion of his commission to support pet adoptions and local animal welfare efforts.

  • Is Homes & Hounds a separate real estate company?

    No. Homes & Hounds is a philanthropic initiative—not a brokerage or team. All real estate services are provided through The Group Real Estate.

  • How much of the commission is donated?

    A portion of every closing is donated. Exact amounts vary depending on the transaction and community needs.

  • Where does the funding go?

    Funds help support medical care, rehabilitation, foster services, and adoptions for pets in Northern Colorado.

  • How can I get involved?

    Clients can support rescues through donations, fostering, volunteering, or sharing available pets. The Homes & Hounds Initiative also hosts periodic community events.

FEES, COMPENSATION & COMPLIANCE

  • How are agents compensated?

    Compensation varies depending on the transaction. We provide full clarity on fees and agreements before starting any work together.

  • Do you work with buyers under a Buyer Agency Agreement?

    Yes. Colorado now requires written agreements for buyer representation. We review terms with you carefully so you’re fully informed.

  • Are there fees for buyers?

    Some transactions may involve buyer-paid compensation depending on how the listing agent structures the offering. We explain all options and will help you determine the best approach.

  • Who pays for photography, marketing, and video?

    We cover the cost of professional marketing as part of his full-service listing experience. In the event your listing is withdrawn from the market or our contract expires, the actual marketing expenses are reimbursed to The NOCO LUXE Group.

  • What happens if my transaction falls through?

    Aside from being reimbursed for actual marketing expenses incurred, our fee is only earned upon a successful closing unless specified otherwise in your agreement.

THE GROUP REAL ESTATE

  • Who is your brokerage?

    Clay and Joel are licensed REALTORS® with The Group Real Estate, one of Northern Colorado’s most respected and established brokerage firms.

  • Why did you choose The Group?

    The Group’s collaborative model, deep market knowledge, and advanced resources allow us to offer elevated service with strong local support.

  • Does The Group support the Homes & Hounds Initiative?

    Yes. Our mission aligns with The Group’s values of community involvement and giving back.

MISCELLANEOUS & OPERATIONS

  • Do you offer virtual consultations?

    Yes. We offer Zoom or phone consultations depending on your preference.

  • Do you work with investors?

    Yes. We support both first-time and seasoned investors with data-driven analysis and acquisition strategies.

  • What’s the best way to reach you?

    Email or text for scheduling; phone for urgent issues. We are both highly responsive and supported by his transaction team.

  • What are your business hours?

    By appointment. We accommodate client schedules and provide flexible availability.