AboutToni Yates Expertise As a real estate broker and agent for over 12 years, I am qualified to answer questions about buyer and seller agency, home ownership, second home ownership, lake property and basic real estate information and laws as they apply in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Experience 12 years in real estate and a second home owner. Top producer for many years. Have specialised in resort and second home as well as primary home ownership. Also have expertise in equestrian properties. Owner and one of the founders of Re/Max Lake & Country as well as Greenway Horse Farm.
Organizations National Association of Realtors, Virginia Association of Realtors, Fredericksburd Area Association of Realtors, Richmond Area Real Estate Association and Charlottesville Association of Realtors. Re/Max and the Better Business Bureau.
Education/Credentials Real estate licensing and broker licensing courses as well as required and optional continuing education in my field.
Awards and Honors Top producer awards from FAAR and Re/Max.
Expert: Toni Yates Date: 7/11/2008 Subject: Buying Land for home in VA
Question My family has decided that we want to move closer to Ohio where our parents live (we are currently in FLA). We were looking in the Western portion of VA to possibly buy some land and build a house and were interested in your suggestions on how to get the process started. Are there agents who specifically specialize in land sales, and how do I find an agent who isn't going to sell me a lot that is undesirbale?
Answer Hi Tim-
Thanks for your question. First, you need to find a good buyer's agent in the area you are interested in. If you don't know anyone in that area who can recommend someone, I would begin by looking on the internet and interviewing, via phone and/or email potential agents. Without sounding like an ad for Re/Max (since I wouldn't benefit anyway), a good place to start is www.remax.com. You can tell a lot from how quickly an agent responds to an inquiry and if they send you all potential listings, not just their company's. Also- experience is important to really address the special things you should know when helping a client with raw land (perc tests, zoning, utilities, area, etc.) Read their bios and resumes and ask a lot of questions. You can also ask for references and their web site. Hope this helps. Good luck in your search- wish I could help you! Best, Toni
