We see it all the time. Real Estate Agents from outside the area trying to represent a buyer or a seller. These agents often come to us for advice and information about the area. Why is this allowed to happen?
If you are a licensed real estate agent in Maryland, you can represent clients anywhere in the state. Even though the laws are vastly different in each jurisdiction, (for example, Montgomery County is very different from Harford County) agents still schlep clients all over the place without any regard as to whether they have the expertise or not.
Why do brokers allow their agents to do this? We have no idea but you should know that here at Yaffe Real Estate, if we don't have an expertise in a particular area - either geographic or demographic - we will not represent the client. We will refer the client out to an expert who can assist them. As a fiduciary, we want our clients to enjoy the best service possible, therefore, if we are not the right brokerage for the job, we refer it out.
Why does a local agent matter?
A local agent knows the laws of the jurisdiction. They know the HOA/condo rules and regulations. They know the floor plans, upgrades and pricing for different communities or buildings. They know the new construction and development going on in the region. They know the streets, neighborhoods, communities, farmers' markets, schools, daycare facilities, traffic patterns, health clubs and more. They have the information that you want and are happy to share it with you.
What other kinds of expertise matter?
There are certain types of property owners or demographics that have their own special needs. For example:
- Seniors have their own needs
- Horse and rural properties.
- New construction
- "Green" properties.
As I always say to my team "Information alone has no value; you have to add value to the information." Is your agent adding value? Or are they just collecting a commission? You deserve the best representation possible. Give us a call. If we can't help you, we will refer you to someone who can.
