Why the Right Realtor + Contractor Combo Can Make or Break Your Move
By Kat Moore
Small confession — a trusted local contractor asked me to write a guest blog for his website, and I’m genuinely honored. I wrote it because neighbors keep asking the same practical questions, so here’s my simple, no-fluff guide.
Buying or selling a home is kind of like planning a wedding—you need the right team. The realtor is your planner, making sure everything runs smoothly, and the contractor is the person who can fix (or prevent) the surprises that pop up along the way. Together, they can turn what might feel like a stressful rollercoaster ride into a much smoother journey.
Kat Moore | Realtor | Advisor
Samson Properties
📞 410-414-5967 (cell), 443-975-7555 (office)
📧 kat@germanrealtor.com
🌐 www.germanrealtor.com
The Kat Walk To Homeownership
For Buyers: Finding the Dream vs. Finding a Money Pit
When you’re buying a home, a realtor helps you find the property. But the right contractor helps you see the potential.
● Wondering if that basement could become a rec room instead of a creepy storage cave?
Ask the contractor.
● Thinking about removing a wall for an open kitchen? They’ll tell you if it’s load-bearing
or not.
● Want to add a bathroom without selling a kidney? The contractor can help you figure out
costs before you buy.
Together, your agent and contractor give you the confidence to know if you’re walking into your dream home—or a renovation nightmare.
For Sellers: Smart Updates That Actually Sell
When you’re selling, it’s tempting to watch a few HGTV shows and suddenly think you need
shiplap in every room. (Spoiler: you don’t.)
● A realtor knows what buyers in your market are looking for.
● A contractor knows which updates give you the most bang for your buck.
Sometimes it’s as simple as a fresh coat of paint and a new front door. Sometimes a bathroom refresh pays off more than that fancy backsplash you’ve been eyeing. The key? Don’t overspend on updates that won’t raise your selling price. Always ask your team if the change increases resale value in our market before you spend.
Why Teamwork Matters
Here’s where the magic happens:
● Fewer Surprises: A good contractor can spot inspection issues early, so buyers and
sellers don’t panic at the last minute.
● Less Stress: When your team communicates, you’re not stuck playing middleman.
● More Money Saved (and Earned): Smart updates increase value, while realistic repair
advice prevents bad investments.
My Takeaways
I’ve seen deals fall apart because buyers didn’t get solid advice on what a repair would really cost—or because sellers poured money into renovations that didn’t increase value. But when the realtor and contractor are on the same page? That’s when things go right.
So, whether you’re buying, selling, or just starting to dream, remember: it’s not just about the house. It’s about the team behind it.
Quick legal notes
Maryland passed a statewide ADU law limiting blanket HOA bans. Still, local permit and design rules are handled by Anne Arundel County — always check with your HOA and county permits before planning an ADU or major addition.
