Real Estate FAQs for Northern Colorado Buyers & Sellers

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

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

Working Together with Joel

  • What areas do you serve?

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

  • What makes your approach different?

    Joel blends three disciplines — real estate, veterinary medicine (DVM), and business strategy (MBA) — to guide clients with clarity, data-driven insight, and a calm, empathetic style. Every recommendation is grounded in real market data and aligned with your goals.

  • Do you work with both buyers and sellers?

    Yes. Joel provides 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 Joel’s personal guidance, you’ll be supported by a dedicated transaction coordinator, 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. Joel provides real-time data, buyer strategies, and negotiation planning so you enter the market fully prepared.

  • Do you help first-time buyers?

    Absolutely. Joel specializes 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. Joel can recommend reputable local lenders.

  • How quickly can I start seeing homes?

    Often within 24 hours. Joel’s transaction team helps coordinate showings quickly based on your schedule.

  • What if I’m relocating to Northern Colorado?

    Joel offers 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. Joel guides 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?

    Joel uses 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?

    Joel provides 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. Joel provides an honest expectation upfront and adjusts strategy as needed.

  • How do showings work?

    Joel coordinates showings through your preferred schedule. You’ll receive weekly feedback and updates.

  • Do I need to be present at showings?

    No. Buyers view the home with their agent. Joel manages access and oversees the process.

HOMES & HOUNDS INITIATIVE

  • What is the Homes & Hounds Initiative?

    Homes & Hounds is Joel’s mission-driven impact program. With every closing, Joel donates a portion of his commission to support Bounce Animal Rescue and other 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. Homes & Hounds also hosts periodic community events.

FEES, COMPENSATION & COMPLIANCE

  • How are agents compensated?

    Compensation varies depending on the transaction. Joel provides 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. Joel reviews 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. Joel explains all options and will help you determine the best approach.

  • Who pays for photography, marketing, and video?

    Joel covers 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 Joel.

  • What happens if my transaction falls through?

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

THE GROUP REAL ESTATE

  • Who is your brokerage?

    Joel is a licensed REALTOR® 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 Joel to offer elevated service with strong local support.

  • Does The Group support the Homes & Hounds Initiative?

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

MISCELLANEOUS & OPERATIONS

  • Do you offer virtual consultations?

    Yes. Joel offers Zoom or phone consultations depending on your preference.

  • Do you work with investors?

    Yes. Joel supports 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. Joel is highly responsive and supported by his transaction team.

  • What are your business hours?

    By appointment. Joel accommodates client schedules and provides flexible availability.