Why a Local Real Estate Agent Can Serve You Best

In my last blog, I talked about the advantages – both personal and for the community – to shopping at local small businesses. Big box stores are becoming prevalent everywhere, and places like the Cape manage to retain a lot of their charm through their longstanding, independent, local businesses.

The same goes for real estate agencies. You might have noticed that there are plenty of nationwide franchises with recognizable brand names in practically every locality. But for a smaller scale, locally-concerned and knowledgeable agent, you can’t go wrong with a smaller firm established by caring members of the community.

Here are just a few benefits you can expect from contracting with an agent at a local firm when you decide to buy or sell a home:

• Your money stays in the community. Any money you pay to a local agent will be sure to stay in town. With a franchise operation, you can never know what percentage of your fees might be taken off the top to help fund the company’s national agenda. Local firms don’t have to cater to any such far-flung corporate interests.
• Local agents live and play in the communities they serve. And they often have a longstanding history in the community. That means they are experts in everything from the history of the community to where to get the best cup of coffee in town. They care about the future of the community, just like you do.
• Agents at local firms have excellent market knowledge. With only a small territory to cover, local agents know what’s hot and what’s not, who’s buying, and who’s selling. They can share this knowledge to get you the best deal and help you time your purchase or sale to best benefit you. In a franchise, some agents may have come from other areas to work in a community in which they have very little background knowledge.
• Local agents know the area neighborhoods and schools. In fact, they may even have firsthand knowledge of the school system in town or the complexion of various neighborhoods in which they or their friends have lived. They can offer a candid view of community life and help you find the neighborhood that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
• Investment in a community means good customer service. Local agents don’t want a bad rap in the communities in which they live and work, which means you are likely to expect impeccable customer service. Their investment in the community translates into “going the extra mile” for its residents – and that includes you!
• It’s all about networking. Local agents have the best networking ability in the business. They know their peers and can get the inside scoop from other agents and community professionals about on homes that are being listed and current market conditions. As a bonus, they are likely to have connections with local banks, mortgage brokers, home inspectors, closing attorneys, insurance agents, and other professionals whose services you might need when you buy or sell a home.

The next time you need the services of an experienced and knowledgeable real estate agent, look no further than the local agencies on your area. I think you’ll be pleased with the quality of customer service and knowledge of the community that local agencies can provide.

Would you like to know more? Visit www.Baysiderealtyconsultants.com for additional information. Written by Kim Clark Realty Times Staff for www.RealtyTimes.com Copyright © 2014 Realty Times All Rights Reserved.