Chehalis Valley Realty

Although we'd originally hoped to locate an exclusive buyers' agent, we learned there were none in the rural area where we were househunting, and we ended up being very happy with the work Ms. Simons performed on our behalf. In addition to being professional, efficient, and apparently endlessly hardworking, we had a good deal of fun on this househunting project, and that is largely thanks to Janet. We were searching long distance from another state, but we had no difficulty reaching Janet, getting responses to questions and concerns, and coordinating visits to see houses. She was flexible, organized, and well attuned to our priorities and the feedback she heard on early visits, so that she was able to effectively help us modify our search area for better results. We utilized a written contract that spelled out the parties' understanding of our roles and responsibilities, and this assured us that although her office might have properties we were interested in, we would not find ourselves in a situation in which her interests as an agent would conflict with ours as buyers. Although we were looking a fair distance from her office, Janet cheerfully drove us many miles to see houses, searched efficiently but thoroughly, and used resources unavailable to us as typical online house-hunters. She seemed very familiar with the communities and their history, and was candid with us on those few occasions when additional research was necessary before she could advise us. We appreciated that, as we then felt we could rely on what we were told. Janet also helped us through the complicated process of buying a property that had been foreclosed on and ultimately taken over by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac). Since we were also using a VA loan, she thus had to contend with not one but two government agencies and the selling realty office. We wouldn't have had a clue how to navigate it all, but it went well and we ended up with just the kind of place we wanted. We are happy to recommend Janet Simons and Chehalis Valley Realty, without reservation.

Just a great experience.

Our search was eventually successful and when bidding competition was fierce she was always willing to give advice when I asked, as long as it was within her parameters as an agent. I found the house of my dreams, and well within my budget and owe it all to Janet. I would not have found this property without her help. She is very ethical when it comes to her work, but is always willing to go the extra mile to help her clients. I would use her services again in a heartbeat!

Two things stand out: 1) Janet maintains a steady, calm, upbeat approach to business transactions and human interactions. Every real estate activity has its own unique character and complications. When problems arose Janet dealt with them promptly and cheerfully, without losing her cool, until she solved them. Her attitude is, “How can I help?” even on transactions not of direct benefit to her. This combination of positive attitude and level-headedness is a gift. It takes much of the stress off buyer, seller, cooperating realtor, lender, and title company. It smoothes difficulties and leads to happy outcomes. 2) Janet is extremely professional in staying on top of a listing or transaction as well as developments in real estate generally. She responds promptly to inquiries and phone calls. She’s computer savvy and keeps up to date on new technologies for promoting a property and sharing information. Although a full licensed broker, she continually takes in-service classes that expand her knowledge. She’s selective but creative in applying new strategies to her own practice. She cultivates a network of realtors and lenders both in and out of Lewis County and has good working relationships with them. They know and trust her. I know and trust her and am very glad to give Janet an unqualified recommendation. My husband and I plan to be in the market again in 2013 and will ask CVR to represent us.

We are still in the process of looking for our home, and Janet is doing a wonderful job keeping us in the know on all our possibilities. She is great.