Buying or selling a home is a big moment. You want a guide you can trust. You want clear steps, fast help, and honest advice. You also want someone who knows Pennsylvania—from city blocks to quiet country roads. That’s where I come in. Here is what makes my service different, and why clients send their friends and family to me.
At a Glance: Why Clients Choose John Gantkowski
- I listen first and build a simple plan for you
- Fast, clear updates by text, call, or email
- Strong local knowledge across many PA markets
- Smart money guidance with PHFA, USDA, FHA, VA, and conventional loans
- Data-backed pricing and offer strategy
- Careful inspections and risk checks so you stay safe
- Calm, fair, and firm negotiation to protect your budget
- Full-service help from first chat to after closing
I Listen First, Then Make a Plan
Your goals lead the way. We start with a short talk about what matters most. Is it price, timing, schools, commute, or space? I turn your answers into a step‑by‑step plan for the next 30–60 days. You will know what happens first, next, and last.
Clear, Quick Communication
You never wonder what’s next. I send short, plain‑language updates. I return messages fast. Before you sign anything, you get a simple summary of what it means. No jargon. No guesswork. Just clear choices.
Local Knowledge Across Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania real estate market. Each area has its own pace, prices, and rules.
- Philadelphia and close suburbs: older homes, city taxes, tight comps
- Lancaster and Berks: radon checks, well and septic in rural spots
- Lehigh Valley: new builds with HOAs and quick sales cycles
- Harrisburg area: steady demand and easy highway access
- Pittsburgh region: neighborhood-by-neighborhood pricing, sewer rules in some towns
I explain how these local facts affect your offer, your inspections, and your final costs.
Smart Money Guidance That Fits You
The right loan can save you thousands. I help you compare options and connect you with trusted lenders.
- PHFA: State help for down payment and closing costs, when you qualify
- USDA: Zero down in many rural and small‑town areas
- VA: Great terms for eligible veterans and service members
- FHA: Flexible credit and low down payments
- Conventional: Strong choice for well‑qualified buyers
We match your budget to the right program. We keep your payment and cash-to-close in a safe range.
Data, Not Guesswork
You make better choices with the right numbers. I pull fresh comps, study days on market, and track trends street by street. For sellers, that means a price that brings real buyers fast. For buyers, that means fair offers that win without paying too much.
Strong, Calm Negotiation
Deals can get tense. I keep it calm and focused on facts. I push for the best price and terms without burning bridges. I use clean timelines, smart contingencies, and clear asks. The goal: protect your money, your time, and your peace of mind.
Inspection and Risk Checks You Can Trust
In Pennsylvania, inspections matter. I help you choose the right ones for the home:
- General home inspection
- WDI/termite
- Radon
- Well water and septic (if needed)
- Sewer lateral or dye test (some towns)
- Chimney and oil tank scans (older homes)
- Stucco/moisture review (where common)
- Flood zone review near rivers and creeks
For condos and HOAs, I help you read the budget, reserves, rules, and fees. You will know what you are buying.
Seller Marketing That Works
If you are selling, your home needs to shine online and in person. My plan includes:
- Light prep tips that bring big returns
- Pro photos, video, and floor plans
- Strong MLS copy that tells the home’s story
- Targeted ads and email to local buyers
- Open houses when they make sense
- Weekly updates and feedback so you always know where we stand
You also get a net sheet up front, so you know your bottom line before we list.
Buyer Advantage Without Overpaying
If you are buying, speed and clarity help you win:
- Real‑time alerts for homes that fit
- Fast showings and video tours if you are busy or out of town
- Offer terms that sellers like—short yet safe timelines
- Escalation language when needed, with a firm cap
- Appraisal and inspection plans ready before we write
We move fast, but we do not skip smart steps.
Tech That Saves Time, Care That Feels Personal
You get modern tools and old‑school service:
- E‑sign for fast, safe paperwork
- Live video tours when you can’t be there
- Secure portals for documents
- Simple checklists and timelines
- Real phone calls when a big choice is on the line
Real Stories from Real Clients
- First‑time buyer in Reading: A teacher felt worried about rates and closing costs. I set a safe budget, found a PHFA‑approved lender, and toured three homes. We wrote one clean offer and won. An inspection found an electrical issue. I got a fair seller credit. She closed on time and now pays less than rent.
- Downsizer in Lancaster: A couple needed to sell a large home and buy a ranch. I priced with data, staged lightly, and launched with great photos. We had strong traffic and multiple offers in week one. I synced the sale and purchase so they moved once. They called the process “calm and clear.”
- Relocating nurse to Hershey: She had one weekend to shop. I lined up a focused tour, sent video walk‑throughs, and wrote a strong, fair offer with solid terms. We closed in 32 days. She started work the next week.
Ethics and No‑Pressure Promise
I tell you the truth, even when it is hard. I explain trade‑offs before we act. I protect your budget and pace. You will never be pushed to skip inspections or rush a deal that feels wrong. Trust first. Deals second.
My Simple 6‑Step Process
- Welcome call
We map your goals, timeline, and budget comfort zone. - Clear plan
You get a step‑by‑step roadmap for the next 30–60 days. - Lender match and preapproval
If needed, I connect you with trusted lenders who know PA rules and programs. - Tour with purpose
We see the right homes, not every home. I point out pros, cons, and red flags. - Offer and negotiate
We use data to set price and terms. I protect your key rights and timelines. - Inspections to closing
I schedule inspections, track dates, and coordinate with title. You get weekly updates (or more, if you want).
What You Can Expect from Me
- Fast replies and clear updates
- Honest advice backed by data
- Respect for your time and money
- Strong local partners (lender, inspector, title, contractors)
- Help after closing (homestead info, tax appeals, trusted pros)
FAQs
Do you cover my area in Pennsylvania?
Yes. I help clients across many PA markets, including Lancaster, Berks, Lehigh Valley, Harrisburg area, and beyond. If I am not the best fit for a distant spot, I will connect you with a trusted local partner and stay in the loop if you wish.
How are you paid?
In many deals, the seller pays most agent fees. We will review your agreement so you know your costs up front. No surprises.
Do you work with first‑time buyers?
Yes. I keep it simple, use checklists, and line up help like PHFA when you qualify. We will set a safe budget and stick to it.
Can you help if I’m out of state?
Yes. I offer video tours, e‑sign, and clear timelines. I also connect you with local pros who can be your eyes on the ground.
What if I’m not ready to buy or sell for a few months?
That’s fine. We can make a plan now so you are ready later. I’ll send updates at a pace you choose.
Do you do dual agency?
If dual agency comes up, we review your options in plain words. You choose what feels best. Transparency first, always.
Ready to See the Difference?
If you want a calm process, clear steps, and a guide who puts you first, let’s talk. I will listen to your needs, share a simple plan, and protect your goals from the first call to the closing table—and after.
Contact John Gantkowski for a friendly, no‑pressure consult. Let’s map your path, tour with purpose, and make your next move in Pennsylvania smooth and successful.