Contractor/Realtor Blog
How a Contractor’s Eye Makes Me a Better Realtor
As a Realtor, having the ability to see a home through the eyes of a contractor is an invaluable skill that sets me apart. While most buyers and sellers focus on aesthetics, I’m able to identify the underlying structural and functional elements that truly define a property’s value.
When I walk through a home, I don’t just see the paint colours or the décor—I notice the foundation, the quality of the framing, the condition of the roof, and whether the electrical or plumbing systems are up to code. This contractor’s perspective allows me to make informed recommendations, whether it’s helping a buyer avoid hidden issues or advising a seller on cost-effective renovations that will maximize the sale price.
I had an excellent client looking for their first home. We had toured many in the Guelph area and they were understandably a little nervous. I knew they had a tight budget, and was careful to point out things on our showings that I thought would be expensive fixes they probably would not want or be able to afford to take on, and so this process of finding the exact home took some time. I was going on holiday for a week, and had asked a colleague to help my clients in case something came up they wanted to look at while I was away. Sure enough, they went and looked at a home and fell in love with it, but did not offer at the time. When I returned, they asked me to take them through again so I can see it as well.
I arrived 15 minutes early for the showing as I usually do, which allows me time to walk around the outside and look for potential issues. This was a century home, and it was no surprise to me i found fifty to eighty thousand dollars of work that needed to be done just on the outside. My clients arrived and I showed them all the things that they were not aware of. We then proceeded inside and the renovation was absolutely stunning- which is why they fell in love with the place.
Needless to say, they did not offer on the property because they did not have the wherewithal to handle all the outside issues, but you know what? They purchased the very next house I showed them and are extremely happy in their new home.
Additionally, I can accurately estimate repair or renovation costs, providing a clearer picture of a property’s potential. For buyers, this means no surprises after the inspection; for sellers, it means knowing exactly where to invest to get the best return on their home.
In short, my contractor’s eye doesn’t just help me see the bones of a house—it gives my clients the confidence that they’re making the best decision, whether buying, selling, or renovating. By combining real estate expertise with construction knowledge, I offer a holistic approach that makes all the difference in today’s competitive market.