STEPHANIE K RANSOM

My biggest advice to buyers is to make sure you understand the process before you fall in love with a home. Start by talking with a trusted lender so you know what you qualify for, what your monthly payment will look like, and what price range truly feels comfortable for you. When you begin looking at homes, try to focus on the things that are difficult or impossible to change, such as the location, neighborhood, lot, layout, and overall condition. Cosmetic items can usually be changed over time, but the location and structure of the home are much more important. I also encourage buyers to ask questions and never be afraid to slow down and make sure they understand what they are signing. Buying a home is a major financial decision, and you should have an agent who will explain the process, help you evaluate the property, negotiate on your behalf, and look out for your best interests from the first showing all the way through closing. Most importantly, I want my buyers to feel comfortable and confident with their decision. My goal is not simply to help you buy a house—it is to help you find a home that makes sense for you, your family, and your future.

My biggest advice to sellers is to start with realistic expectations and a solid plan. Pricing your home correctly from the beginning is one of the most important decisions you will make. A home that is priced too high can sit on the market and lose momentum, while a well-priced home can attract more interest and put you in a stronger negotiating position. Before listing, take care of the things that will make the best first impression. Decluttering, cleaning, making small repairs, and improving curb appeal can make a big difference without requiring a major renovation. Once your home is on the market, make it as easy as possible for buyers to see it and be open to feedback. Sometimes the comments we hear from buyers can help us make adjustments that improve the chances of getting the home sold. I also encourage sellers not to take negotiations personally. Every offer is a starting point, and my job is to help you look at the entire picture—not just the purchase price, but also financing, contingencies, closing costs, inspections, and the likelihood of the transaction actually making it to closing. Most importantly, work with an agent who will communicate with you, tell you the truth about the market, and help you make informed decisions. Selling a home can be emotional, and my goal is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible while protecting your interests and helping you achieve the best possible outcome.

I work with all types of buyers, from first-time homebuyers who are just beginning to understand the process to experienced investors who know exactly what they are looking for. I especially enjoy working with first-time buyers and veterans. Buying a home can feel overwhelming when you have never been through the process before, and I enjoy taking the time to explain each step, answer questions, and make sure my clients feel comfortable and confident with their decisions. I also have a special appreciation for working with veterans and military families. Understanding their needs, timelines, and financing options can make a real difference in the home-buying experience, and I consider it a privilege to help those who have served find a place to call home. Whether you are purchasing your very first home, relocating, downsizing, or building an investment portfolio, my goal is the same: to provide knowledgeable, honest guidance and help make the process as smooth as possible.

My career in real estate actually began on the mortgage side of the industry. I started as a mortgage processor and went on to work as a delegated underwriter and Mortgage Loan Originator, which gave me a strong understanding of financing and what it takes to get a transaction successfully to the closing table. From there, I transitioned into title insurance company management, where I gained even more experience with the legal, title, and closing side of real estate. I later became a REALTOR® and served as Operations Director for a high-volume real estate investment company, overseeing transactions, properties, and the many moving pieces involved in buying and selling real estate. After relocating to Northeast Tennessee, I brought all of that experience together and now lead The Ransom Team alongside my husband, Mike. Having worked in mortgage lending, underwriting, title, real estate operations, and sales gives me a unique perspective and allows me to help my clients understand the entire process—not just one part of it.

I bring a broad range of real estate training and experience to every transaction. I am a certified Military Relocation Professional (MRP), with specialized training in assisting veterans, active-duty service members, and military families. My background also includes mortgage processing, delegated underwriting, mortgage loan origination, title insurance company management, real estate operations, investment properties, and residential sales. Because I have worked on so many sides of the transaction, I understand much more than just the sales process. I can help clients anticipate potential issues, better understand financing and title matters, and make informed decisions from the first conversation through closing. That experience allows me to be a stronger advocate, problem-solver, and resource for my clients.