Re/Max Realtor Katy Dix Brahler says that those who wait this hot real estate market out could be sorry when it’s over

By Patricia Nugent

You don’t know what you don’t know.

Local Re/Max Realtor Katy Dix Brahler likens this self-evident adage to the state of real estate on Cleveland’s West Side.

“Here’s what we don’t know: how many homes will be on the market next year, what the interest rates will be, and how many buyers will still be buying,” says Katy, who lives in Bay. “And here’s what we do know: there’s a historically low number of homes on the market—as of right now only 25 homes for sale in Bay Village and 42 in Rocky River, which is unprecedented.”

She says letting this ultimate sellers’ market pass you by could be something you regret for a long, long time.

“My friends and family ask my advice on selling or waiting, and I’m telling them the most advantageous time to sell your home is now,” she says. “Put the sign up, wait for the offers. Thank me later.”

Getting Your Place Ready to Sell
Katy understands how daunting and overwhelming the decision to sell can be, so she lets her clients know that she will be by their side every step of the way, with a long list of trusted people to do anything needed, from painting to cleaning.

Here are a few tips:

• Think pristine. “Every inch of your home should be freshly cleaned, from windows to woodwork to trim.”
• De-junk. “I don’t want to see anything on the counters, only clean lines. When in doubt, get it out.”
• A fresh coat. “Painting rooms lighter, brighter colors makes them look bigger and new again.”

“Included with every listing is a staging service to create a realistic list of what needs to be done,” she adds. “Homeowners usually think there’s more to do than there actually is to put their home on the market.”

Under $400,000 in Cashelmara
One of Katy’s favorite listings is this breathtaking home in Cashelmara. Welcome to 460 Darbys Run. Perched along the shoreline in Bay Village, this exclusive community of 110 high-end condominiums boasts some of the most arresting views of Lake Erie in all of Cleveland. Soaring windows between the sweeping balconies and open concept spaces, master bedroom and the upper level cupola room, beckon the outdoors in.

Renowned architect Bob Corna created the luxury units from the historic former hospital once owned by Dr. Sam Sheppard. Today, homeowners enjoy all the amenities of the Cashelmara Mansion with a sauna and indoor pool, lake access with a grassy knoll to launch kayaks, and being a little part of a historic property.

“This two-bedroom unit has been meticulously cared for by its original owner,” adds Katy. “It would be the perfect home for empty nesters, or younger people looking for a little less space to maintain. I just sold a home around the corner in Cashelmara for more than $400k. This one is an absolute steal at $399,900.”

Check out KatyBrahler.com for more photos and details.

A Little Help from Her Friends
Over the years, Katy Dix Brahler has made strategic partnerships with others who are like-minded when it comes to philanthropy and throwing their heart into a worthwhile cause. One of those is Knuth’s.

Founded in 1960 as a shoe store, it’s gone through a metamorphosis and now focuses solely on women’s fashions under the ownership of the third generation of Knuth, Sherri and Jon Bryan.

With locations in Westlake and Pepper Pike, they launched their online store last year. Shoppers enjoy a chic and stylish selection of casual to elegant looks including tops, jackets, pants, skirts, dresses, shoes, boots, handbags and jewelry.

“I am thankful to have these gracious folks in my corner,” says Katy, who reports they held a successful charity event at the boutique in September for the Cleveland Clinic’s Leukemia & Lymphoma Program.

“Each year they allow me to throw a fundraiser here and donate a generous portion of the proceeds to a charity,” she says. “I couldn’t do it without all the hard work and inspiration from Julie Holowenko, who is one of their top salespeople.”

In addition to her many charitable efforts, Katy gave a resounding “yes” last year when asked to sit on the board of MOCA Cleveland, the museum of contemporary art. Next June, she’ll be hosting a special fundraiser for MOCA at The Cleveland Yachting Club.

“Not only do I adore art, but I saw a real opportunity in this energetic group of women and men to change things for the better,” she says. “It’s an honor to serve alongside them.”

Re/Max is located at 25021 Center Ridge Road in Westlake. Katy Brahler is a multi-million-dollar producer and is a distinguished member of the President’s Club and Executive Club of Re/Max. Call her cell at 440-724-4313 or visit KatyBrahler.com for more information.