Advantages for Choosing a Local, Independent Realtor

There are many advantages to choosing a local, independent realtor when listing your existing home, or looking for a new home.

We have compiled a listing of ten reasons why it is best to choose a realtor that is local to your area and independent from larger commercial realty companies.

1. They have the customer service of a small business, helping you buy or sell as quickly and painlessly as possible.

2. Local agencies have access to recent market data, making it possible for them to advise you on realistic pricing based upon comparable homes in your areas.

3. Your local, independent real estate agent can successfully negotiate for you by presenting creative offers that are limited with larger brokerage firms, ensuring a deal with your best interests in mind.

4. A local real estate agent will minimize the chaos by coordinating and hosting your showing or viewings.

5. Local real estate agents have connections that enable them to provide you, as a buyer, with insider information like new listings not yet on the MLS, and negotiation tactics based upon the seller's situation. If you are the seller, your agent will use their network to aggressively market your property to other local agents.

6. Local agents understand local marketing. From photos, slides and videos - to staging and media marketing - to screening customers, your agent knows how best to showcase your property to the proper market.

7. Your local real estate agent will help you with inspections. Deciphering the inspection report and determining what needs fixed before closing and what can be negotiated are all within the expertise of your agent.

8. A local real estate agent can recommend reputable professionals in your area (inspectors, lawyers, movers, contractors and more) to handle necessary issues.

9. Local agencies have the heart of a teacher. Agents will walk you through the closing process, explaining each document, easing the process.

10. Your local real estate agent will help you keep things in perspective and remain objective to enable you to make the best deal possible.