Turning Challenges Into Closings
Waterfront condo complex in Tampa, Florida.
Florida condos may be a challenging sale right now, but the closing table is still within reach. The key is having an agent who doesn’t stop at ‘no.’
I recently represented a seller in a condo complex facing high HOA fees, ongoing repairs, and a tough reputation. The word among Realtors was that financing required at least 25% down, and the community already had several expired and canceled listings that couldn’t make it to the closing table.
Instead of relying on hearsay, I dug in. I spoke with multiple lenders and reviewed every sale in the community over the past two years. That research revealed there were creative financing options that others had overlooked. So when an offer came in with just 3% down and a very low rate, I didn’t dismiss it—I rolled up my sleeves. I worked directly with the lender team, pushed for extra due diligence, and confirmed the deal could work.
Thanks to persistence, creativity, and thinking outside the box, we accepted the offer and closed successfully in just 30 days—something that hadn’t been happening for many others in that community.
The takeaway: In challenging situations, having an agent who goes beyond the obvious can be the difference between an expired listing and a successful closing.
Carrie Rowland is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative,® Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist,® Military Relocation Professional,® Graduate of the Realtor Institute® and a Realtor-Associate at RE/MAX Alliance Group in South Tampa
