As a seasoned real estate agent, your knowledge of the local area is your most potent asset when guiding home buyers in their quest for the perfect property. Being geographically savvy can make all the difference in delivering unparalleled service to your clients. Here’s how you, as an agent, can become a game-changer by providing invaluable insights to your home buyer clients.
1. Building a Strong Referral Network
Building a robust referral network is one of the initial steps to becoming a geographically savvy agent. Encourage your relocating clients to seek referrals from their contacts in the new area. These personal recommendations often lead to the discovery of knowledgeable agents. Additionally, scour online platforms for well-reviewed agents and brokerage firms, selecting those with a solid reputation. To learn more about how to effectively ask for referrals in real estate, click here to access our comprehensive resource, How to Ask for Referrals in Real Estate.
2. Understanding Key Area Insights
To truly stand out as a geographically savvy agent, you should possess in-depth knowledge of your target area. Here are some essential aspects you should be well-versed in:
Home Values: Every agent should have a comprehensive understanding of property values in specific subdivisions and the broader geographical region where clients are looking for homes.
Local Schools: Familiarize yourself with the local public school districts, as well as the elementary, middle, and high schools that serve particular neighborhoods. Don’t forget to research private school options, including their costs.
Local Shopping: Be well-informed about nearby grocery stores, clothing boutiques, furniture shops, and other essential retail locations.
Insurance Considerations: Understand how insurance factors are included in the equation. Share information about homeowner policies in areas of heightened risk, such as coastal hurricane zones, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, or earthquake-prone regions.
Unique Building Codes: Some regions may require specialized building codes due to higher risks. Be prepared to advise clients on matters like hurricane strapping for roof structures or reinforced strapping for foundations in earthquake-prone areas.
Zoning Laws: Keep an eye out for zoning laws that could impact property values. Be knowledgeable about nearby commercial zones and any proposed zoning changes that might affect residential areas.
Future Developments: Stay up-to-date on upcoming residential and commercial developments and road construction projects that impact the properties your clients are considering.
Homeowners Associations (HOAs): Familiarize yourself with the presence and rules of HOAs in different neighborhoods. For instance, if clients are interested in purchasing a property for short-term rentals like Airbnb, be aware of whether a particular HOA allows such arrangements.
Local Mortgage Lenders: Build relationships with local mortgage lenders who are well-acquainted with the housing market in your area. Collaborating with knowledgeable lenders can aid clients in making informed decisions.
Property Taxes: Develop an excellent working knowledge of property taxes and appraisals in the area. Understand the district lines that divide different jurisdictions.
By mastering these critical aspects of your area, you’ll instill confidence in your home buyer clients, knowing they have a trusted advisor who can guide them in making fully informed decisions when purchasing a home. Your expertise as a geographically savvy agent will undoubtedly set you apart in the competitive world of real estate.
When you join Fathom Realty, you will have access to technology, extensive training, and local support from experienced leaders. We are committed to helping you grow your business and succeed in the real estate industry. Join us and become part of the Fathom family that values service, strong culture, and excellence in all that we do.
