Claire Nagel

Bringing a Hospitality Mindset to Homebuying

By Doug Puppel // Photography by Charles Henry

Claire Nagel has the latest real estate statistics at her fingertips, but the Sotheby's International Realty agent says homebuying math is as simple as one plus one.

"The common goal is a happy buyer and a happy seller — negotiating skills are essential to make that happen," she says.

Nagel credits her earlier career in hospitality, which included working with hotelier and entrepreneur Ian Schrager, with instilling the customer-focused mindset she brings to the homebuying process.

"It's not transactional. It's personal," she says. "It's about listening to people's needs and wants."

Nagel is fluent in the housing market analyses produced by Sotheby's in-house marketing department, but she embraces a bigger truth: "People need to move in any economy."

She says Las Vegas offers a strong foundation for long-term real estate values, supported by its entertainment, outdoor recreation, convenient drive times that make Californians weep with joy, and an expanding cultural scene.

Nevada's famously low tax burden adds to that appeal, she says, particularly as taxes rise in several other Western states.

"You can get more for your money than in some of our neighboring states," she says.

Nagel offers several pieces of advice for those considering buying or selling in the next year, beginning with one she delivers with a broad smile: "The first step is to talk to me!"

Beyond that, prospective buyers should "meet with a reputable lender to gauge their financing options."

"Ask yourself, 'What am I looking for?'" Nagel says. "Then I can find a neighborhood that fits your needs."

Sellers need to remember that buyers do much of their shopping online, making professional staging and photography worthwhile investments.

"A lot of sellers regret focusing on the costs," she says. "If you want to cut costs, you usually aren't saving money in the long run. Historically, well-presented homes sell more quickly and for a higher price."

She also advises sellers to interview prospective agents and ask, "What are you doing for the money?"

For those who want to take Nagel up on her invitation to talk first, she can be reached at (702) 327-2727 and @Nagel4Vegas on social media.