Why choose a local Realtor?

Why do local sellers list their properties with brokers that are out of the area?  I’ve heard sellers say that they will get better exposure, maybe they are not getting “full services” and are paying a smaller fee or possibly it is a friend or family member.  Here are some things for sellers to think about when making the important decision to list and who to use as a broker.

1. Consider which MLS (multiple listing service) your home will be featured in.  The local agents will most likely bring a buyer and if the home is not in an MLS system that they have access to, it will reduce showings.  Not only do different areas have different MLS systems they also have different lockboxes/keys for entering a property.
2.  Local laws and regulations are important knowledge for a broker to have.  All counties and cities have different growth management plans, different building restrictions and laws.  A broker unfamiliar with the local rules and regulations could potentially misrepresent, or inadvertantly  not be aware of “risks” that could end up causing issues after the transaction has closed.
3.  Knowledge of the area.  Although Google maps has brought us a long ways in finding addresses, it is not perfect.  Only a broker familiar with the area would know which areas are more likely to have water issues,  or know how to navigate a road with no signs aka…turn by the big Pine tree.  When representing a seller on bare land the broker has to locate the property exactly to make sure and not put a for sale sign on the neighboring land.
4. In the real estate industry everything is local.  Every areas ups and downs are based on jobs, demand, location etc…. What may be an appropriate price in Portland will not be an appropriate price in Colville.   Rural properties are more deversified than urban homes and there is a lot more to consider such as: access, well production, septic systems, unmarked boundary lines.
5. Listing upkeep is easier when a broker is within a reasonable distance to their listings. If a sign falls down, will your agent drive 100 miles to place a new sign?  If a home is vacant and needs a little more supervision to make sure it’s secure are they available to drive by and check on it?
6. Community involvement is high when you work with a local agent.  They are involved in charities, they go to county commission meeting to protect your proeprty rights, and they genuinely care about the community they live in.