Claudia Looi

Purchasing a home in Queens or Long Island—whether it’s a co-op, condo, or house—requires preparation and clarity from the start. My best advice is to get clear on your goals, financial comfort zone, and lifestyle needs before you begin looking. For example, in Queens, co-op purchases are common, but they come with board applications, interviews, and financial requirements that differ greatly from buying a single-family or condo. Understanding these differences early saves time and avoids surprises. I also encourage buyers to get pre-approved with a strong local lender and to work with a realtor who knows the neighborhood nuances—like transportation, schools, and even building-specific requirements. In today’s competitive market, having your paperwork ready and your priorities clear puts you in a stronger position to make a confident offer. Finally, think long term: buying isn’t just about today’s needs but about choosing the right fit for where you see yourself in the next 5–10 years.

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Queens or Long Island, the most important step is to prepare early and strategically. Buyers today are well-informed, and first impressions—online and in person—make all the difference. For co-op and condo sellers, this means gathering building documents, understanding board approval timelines, and pricing with current comps in mind. For single-family or multi-family homes, it often means staging, decluttering, and making small updates that highlight the property’s value. Another key factor is right-pricing—listing at a competitive, data-driven price that attracts the right buyers while maximizing your return. Overpricing can cause a listing to sit, while correct pricing often generates stronger offers and even bidding situations. Lastly, work with an agent who knows how to market your property beyond just photos—through targeted digital marketing, neighborhood expertise, and buyer screening. The right guidance ensures a smoother sale, especially when you’re selling in order to right-size into your next chapter.

I’ve worked with a wide range of clients across Queens and Long Island, but most often I serve: Homeowners who are downsizing or “right-sizing”—empty nesters, retirees, or families transitioning into a home that better fits their lifestyle. Co-op and condo sellers navigating the unique requirements of board packages, interviews, and building rules. First-time homebuyers, including renters moving into their first co-op or condo, who need guidance through every step of the process. Estate and family sellers managing the sale of inherited properties or homes that have been in the family for decades. International and out-of-state buyers and investors seeking co-ops, condos, or entry-level properties in Queens and Long Island. Across all of these clients, my role is to simplify the process, provide clear market insights, and ensure smooth, successful transactions tailored to their goals.

One transaction I’m especially proud of was helping longtime homeowners in Flushing sell their single-family home so they could right-size into a smaller property on Long Island and closer to their kids and grandkids. My role was to ensure their sale went as smoothly as possible. From preparing the home for market to negotiating offers, I focused on securing a strong buyer and, most importantly, making sure the deal closed on time. I stayed in close communication with the attorneys on both sides, coordinated deadlines, and resolved small issues quickly before they became obstacles. In the end, the sale closed seamlessly and on schedule, allowing my clients to move forward with their next chapter without stress. For me, success isn’t just about the sale price—it’s about giving homeowners peace of mind during one of the biggest transitions of their lives.

I began my real estate journey as an investor in Florida, where I bought and managed properties. That experience gave me firsthand knowledge of evaluating homes not just as places to live, but as smart investments. I’ve always been drawn to real estate, and over time I realized I had a natural flair for estimating a home’s value simply by studying the market and its location. That skill—being able to quote a realistic price and spot the best opportunities—made the transition into becoming a licensed Realtor a natural step. Today, I use that same instinct and experience to guide my clients in Queens and Long Island, helping sellers position their homes competitively and helping buyers identify properties that are both a lifestyle fit and a wise investment.

Beyond my years of experience, I’ve pursued specialized training to ensure my clients always have an edge in the market. I hold several professional designations that directly benefit both buyers and sellers: ABR® (Accredited Buyer’s Representative): Focused on representing and protecting buyers’ interests throughout the home-buying process. SRS (Seller Representative Specialist): Advanced expertise in listing strategies, pricing, and negotiations to help homeowners achieve the best results. SFR® (Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource): Knowledge in handling distressed properties, short sales, and foreclosure situations with professionalism and care. e-PRO®: Certification in digital marketing and technology, allowing me to maximize online exposure for listings and communicate effectively in today’s digital-first world. These designations, combined with my local market expertise in Queens and Long Island, give my clients confidence that they are working with an agent who has both practical experience and advanced training to guide them through even the most complex transactions.