Jay Fermanich

That is the first thing I would tell any buyer. A pre-approval helps you know what price range actually makes sense, what your payment may look like, and what loan options you have. It also protects your time so you are not looking at homes that do not fit your budget. When the right home comes up, being pre-approved also helps you move faster and make a stronger offer. In today’s market, sellers want to know a buyer is serious and ready. My advice is simple: talk with a lender first, know your numbers, then start shopping with a clear plan.

Clean, declutter, and make the home easy to show. That is the first advice I would give any seller. Buyers need to be able to walk in and picture themselves living there. If the home is clean, open, and not packed full of personal items, it usually shows better. You do not always need to spend a lot of money before selling, but small things matter. Pick up clutter, clean the floors, wipe down counters, touch up what you can, and make sure the outside looks cared for too. My advice is simple: clean it up, price it right, and have a clear plan before going on the market. A good first impression can make a big difference.

I work with buyers and sellers who are looking for honest guidance through the real estate process. Some clients are buying their first home. Some are selling a home they have owned for years. Others are moving, downsizing, investing, or just trying to figure out their next step. The clients I work best with are people who are willing to ask questions, listen to good advice, and work together with a clear plan. Buying or selling a home is a big decision, and my job is to help make that journey easier, clearer, and less stressful.

One recent transaction I am fond of was helping a client move through the buying or selling process with a clear plan and steady communication. Like most real estate deals, there were a few things that had to be worked through, but we stayed focused, kept the client informed, and handled each step one at a time. What made it a good transaction was the trust and teamwork. My client was willing to ask questions, listen to advice, and make smart decisions. In the end, we were able to get the deal done and help them move forward with confidence. That is the part of real estate I enjoy most.

I got started in real estate because I have always been interested in property, investing, and helping people make smart decisions. Before real estate, I worked in maintenance leadership and project management, which taught me how to solve problems, communicate clearly, and keep things moving. I also owned rental properties, so I understood the value of real estate from an investor’s side before becoming a full-time real estate professional. That experience helped me see how important good guidance is when someone is buying or selling. Now, as Broker/Owner of EXIT Northland Realty, my goal is simple: help people move forward with confidence, honest advice, and a clear plan.

Yes. I have a bachelor’s degree in Project Management from UW-Stout, and that background helps me keep the buying and selling process organized from start to finish. I also bring real-world experience from owning rental properties, working in maintenance leadership, and running a brokerage. That helps me look at homes with a practical eye, not just from a sales side. As Broker/Owner of EXIT Northland Realty, I also continue to learn through real estate training, market updates, and hands-on experience with buyers, sellers, and investors. My goal is simple: give clients honest guidance, clear communication, and a steady plan so they can make good decisions with confidence.