Working with the right REALTOR® is the best thing you can do to ensure you end up in a home that checks all your boxes. A home is one of the most expensive—if not the most impactful purchases you will make in your lifetime so making sure you find a good fit doesn’t just apply to the house.
WHEN YOU ARE LOOKING TO BUY
A LOCAL REALTOR® KNOWS THE AREA BEST
An agent who lives and works out of an area they live in will have a greater understanding of its ins and outs. This comes down to more than just market statistics. Having a feel for neighbourhood trends, development opportunities, local amenities/activities/services, schooling zones, etc. comes with proximity.
An agent from another city only has access to the hard and fast numbers. Local real estate agents have a better feel for the area and can help you make an informed decision. Knowing the local market also means the agent can help buyers develop a competitive offer without overpaying.
PURCHASING A HOME TAKES TIME
If you are moving to a new city, you might be tempted to partner with a REALTOR® from your previous area. While they may be highly qualified, the reality is searching for a home is a process and it can take numerous viewings to find “the house”.
If your agent is looking for a quick sell, you might be pushed towards homes that don’t meet all your needs, simply to save time. A local agent has the flexibility to be on-site when a hot new listing pops up and you want to see it before many other buyers do.
LOCAL CONNECTIONS MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE
If you are in the market to buy a home, chances are you need additional services beyond your agent. Your agent should be able to guide you towards necessary services, such as home inspections, reputable mortgage brokers, and a trustworthy real estate lawyer.
WHEN YOU ARE LOOKING TO SELL
YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR
It is the seller’s responsibility to pay the REALTOR® out of the proceeds of the home sale, so it makes sense to want to save where possible.
Discount real estate agents tend to offer the bare minimum in terms of services. Focusing too much on commission rates might mean you end up paying more in the long run or end up unhappy after you move in.
Choosing to go the private-sale route can also be enticing but working with an actual qualified REALTOR® gives you access to a wide range of information that can help you make the best choice for yourself and your family.
Read for Why You Should Use a REALTOR® When Buying or Selling A Home more information.
UNDERSTAND WHAT’S SELLING
A local agent understands market trends and has access to recent sales statistics. Pricing your home appropriately and making it desirable to your target buyer can make all the difference.
This is critical in getting the highest possible price for your home, as well as ensuring your property doesn’t sit on the market for too long, losing value.
A LOCAL AGENT IS MORE RESPONSIVE
If someone sees a for-sale sign in your yard, you want your REALTOR® to be available to make the sale. A local agent can often accommodate walk-in traffic, spur of the moment showings, and is just generally more available and flexible throughout the selling process.
QUICK TIPS FOR CHOOSING A REALTOR®
- They should ask questions, listen to what you want, and take the time to explain every step of the process.
- Do your research and check your agent’s track record. Look for testimonials and a comprehensive website.
- Be specific in what you are looking for and set clear expectations. What you need from your agent is unique and a good one will tailor the process to work for you.
A LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT IS THE WAY TO GO
We believe that living and working in the area our clients are buying and selling in is so important. As much as possible, we match you with the agent on our team that lives in your desired community.
We love Brantford and the surrounding area! Our team has specialists all across Paris, Brant County, Delhi, Simcoe, and all points in between, and we are ready to help you with expert service and advice.
If you are looking to buy or sell in the Brantford market, we can help. We are experts in the area, and there’s a reason why we’ve been designated as the #1 team of REALTORS® in Brantford for buying and selling real estate.
