If I were Buying in RI Today
If I Were Buying in Rhode Island Right Now, Here’s Exactly What I’d Do
I get this question all the time:
“Ben, if you were buying in Rhode Island right now, what would you do?”
The answer isn’t a headline or a hot take. It’s a strategy — one built on local knowledge, timing, and understanding how deals actually get done in this market.
Here’s how I’d approach buying today, and how I help my clients do the same.
First, I’d Get Clear on Strategy — Not Just Price
Before looking at a single home, I’d define why I’m buying.
As a buyer working with Ben Wood, we’d lock in:
Long-term hold vs short-term flexibility
Lifestyle vs investment priorities
Monthly comfort, not just purchase price
How much competition I’m willing to face
This clarity makes every decision easier once the right property shows up.
Second, I’d Focus on Location Over Perfection
If I were buying today, I wouldn’t chase the prettiest house.
I’d focus on:
Strong neighborhoods with proven demand
Streets and towns that hold value in any market
Areas where updates add value instead of just cost
This is something I stress with my clients constantly: you can improve a house — you can’t fix a location.
Third, I’d Use the Best Search Tools Available
This is where working with Ben Wood at Compass matters.
I’d set up a custom Compass search that includes:
Listings before they hit public sites
Compass Private Exclusives
Price changes and off-market opportunities
Targeted multi-family or value-add properties
Seeing the right homes first changes everything.
Fourth, I’d Tour With Intent — Not Emotion
I wouldn’t tour 20 houses just to see them.
I’d walk into showings asking:
Does this work financially?
Does it make sense long-term?
What’s the real upside here?
This is how I guide my buyers — focused, calm, and prepared to act when the right opportunity appears.
Fifth, I’d Use the Inspection as a Power Move
If I were buying today, I’d never treat the inspection as a formality.
With Ben Wood representing me, I’d use it to:
Understand real condition and costs
Separate major issues from normal wear
Negotiate repairs or credits strategically
Decide confidently whether to move forward
Information puts you in the driver’s seat.
Finally, I’d Play the Long Game
Rhode Island rewards buyers who think long-term.
I wouldn’t try to time the market perfectly. I’d focus on:
Buying well
Choosing the right location
Structuring the deal correctly
Letting time and demand do the work
That’s how real value is built here.
The Bottom Line
If I were buying in Rhode Island right now, I wouldn’t rush — but I wouldn’t hesitate when the right property shows up.
I’d lean on experience, strategy, and local insight.
And that’s exactly how I help my clients every day.
Ben Wood
Residential & Commercial Real Estate | Rhode Island
Smart buying isn’t about luck. It’s about preparation and execution.