Why Homebuyers Should Never Skip the Buyer Consultation

By Danae Aballi-Mecham

Danae Aballi-Mecham is a long-time real estate industry veteran. She has worked in various positions in the industry having grown from an independent real estate agent to running a team of 5 top producing agents.

If you’re planning to buy a home, skipping the consultation may seem harmless. Many buyers want to go straight to showings, but that choice can lead to stress, mistakes, and even regret. A buyer consultation is the foundation of a smooth homebuying experience. Today, I’ll go over why starting with a consultation protects your time, money, and peace of mind:

Test the quality of your agent. Not every real estate agent offers the same level of service. If an agent only shows homes and unlocks doors, they may not be the right fit. A consultation lets you see if your agent can explain each step of the process, prepare you for challenges, and guide you through decisions. A skilled agent will make the entire journey easier and more predictable.

Understand the market. The real estate market changes constantly. What worked for buyers six months ago may not work today. In my consultations, I share live MLS data. For instance, if you’re searching for a three-bedroom, two-bath home in Irvine, I can show you exactly how many homes are for sale and how many are in escrow right now. That data shows the pace of the market and tells you how to approach your offer, whether you can negotiate, and how competitive you need to be.

Focus on your real goals. Many buyers get distracted by features like updated kitchens orlarge yards, but those details don’t always match the true reason for buying. Maybe your real goal is to shorten your commute or be closer to your child’s school. A consultation helps uncover those priorities and keeps you on track.

Learn new strategies. Even experienced buyers don’t know every option available. A consultation is a chance to learn about financing tools, negotiation approaches, and offer strategies that can give you an edge. These insights can uncover opportunities you might otherwise miss. I learn new strategies every day, and I use these meetings to share them with my clients.

Buying a home should feel exciting, not overwhelming. A buyer consultation gives you clarity, confidence, and the right plan to move forward. If you’re preparing to buy in Orange County, you can call or text me at (949) 216-8565 or send me an email at danae@danaeaballi.com. I’d be glad to walk you through the process and help you take the right next step.