Case Study – Capitol Hill 8-Unit with View
Key Deal Points
- 317 Thomas St, Seattle
- 8-unit with View
- Sale Price $2.4M
- Represented Seller
For more information regarding this case study, please contact:
Candice Chevaillier, CCIM
Principal
D (206) 773-2694
cchevaillier@lee-associates.com
Daniel Lim
Vice President
D (206) 773-2692
dlim@lee-associates.com
Dea Sumantri
Associate Vice President
D (206) 773-2680
dsumantri@lee-associates.com
Chris Larsen
Associate
D (206) 773-2695
clarsen@lee-associates.com
Challenge
After over two decades, our clients made the strategic decision to exchange the subject property into a building that better aligns with their operational needs. The absence of dedicated parking for vendors posed a persistent challenge, prompting the shift into a more suitable location, closer to the rest of their existing portfolio. Despite its strong location, undeniable charm, and diligent upkeep, the building's century-old age presents unique hurdles. Securing a buyer willing to embrace the historic character, coupled with navigating the intricacies of financing amidst fluctuating interest rates, demands expertise. The Lee Multifamily team stands prepared to tackle these challenges head-on, leveraging our extensive experience and market insight to facilitate a seamless transition for our client.
Action
Lee Multifamily team is known for our ability to craft compelling marketing campaigns and assembling comprehensive due diligence materials tailored to potential buyers. By weaving together captivating imagery and a narrative presenting value-add opportunities, we effectively showcased the property's potential and viable pathways for prospective investors. Leveraging a targeted calling campaign and extensive market exposure, our team cultivated a competitive landscape, resulting in two robust offers for the Seller One offer comes from a seasoned investor who already owns two similar vintaged buildings in the neighborhood, while the other is from an architect-professor duo looking to manage and live in the building. Both seem like good fits for the property, but we've found that buyers who are emotionally invested, especially those planning to live on-site, tend to be more committed and flexible in negotiations. thereby presenting an advantageous opportunity for the seller.
Result
In today's lending landscape, securing financing has become increasingly difficult with many loan programs drying up and interest rates fluctuating daily. The buyer’s initial lender was unable to provide financing in this challenging environment, however, leveraging our extensive network, we swiftly connected the Buyer with a reputable and prolific loan broker who quickly navigated the complexities of the situation. Yet, just as the transaction seemed back on track, another obstacle emerged: a significant surge in insurance costs mere weeks before the scheduled closing. Drawing on our wealth of experience and industry connections, the Lee Multifamily team offered creative solutions to ensure the buyer could secure affordable insurance through existing property management channels. Despite multiple hurdles that could have derailed the deal, our team's expertise and strong ties within the Seattle market ecosystem enabled us to navigate the challenges and successfully close the transaction.