For those of my readers that are flyfishers, the phrase "Match the Hatch" is easily recognized as our mantra for a successful outing. For those unfamiliar with the sport or the phrase, it is worth reviewing for it's close resemblance of a successful real estate search.
Matching the Hatch is determining which artificial fly you use to match what insect is naturally hatching on the stream or pond that the fish are feeding on. Sounds simple, but the reality is, it can be very elusive. The fish can be very selective and never consistent in their choice of what they feel like eating. It can take many attempts with various flies of different sizes to break the code.
Homebuyers can be just as befuddled as flyfishers as to why they aren't getting exactly what they want as they search for the property of their dreams. Working with a seasoned broker with a vast knowledge base and years of experience can help the cause dramatically. It's no secret that the predominant method of searching for a property is the internet. Simply plug in your search criteria and the search engines will select those properties that most closely make your choices. The price range, the acreage, the number of bedrooms are all there for you see. But it's the subtleties that can be the frustrations for a buyer. The almost intangible qualities of a property that search engines can not decipher. I recall once showing a gentleman several properties that met his criteria but were not hitting the mark. We retreated to my office and in the course of discussion he stated that as he was getting older, the need for an expansive environment was important to him. He felt that many properties were almost claustrophobic to him. The bell went off in my head and I took him to a brand new listing I had. It was only 3 acres, way less than he asked for, but the setting was at the top of a valley which created a very open expansive feel. He put it under contract immediately at the asking price of $1.6mil. A classic case of "Matching the Hatch" perfectly.
Posted by Wade I. Treadway