As a realtor, I’ve heard *all* the hot takes about professionals in my line of work. Some positive, some negative, and some… lacking fundamental information.
Many people think that every realtor does the same thing; therefore, it doesn’t matter who you choose to list your home. Unfortunately, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Whether or not they call me, I think it’s important for homeowners to know that they’re always better served by a local realtor than one from out of town. And sure, I’m biased, but there are several rock-solid reasons why this is the case.
For starters, local realtors offer more comprehensive knowledge. We’re Columbus experts through experience, not because we did aimless research online. We get our news over breakfast at Starliner Diner, from a weekly community meeting at a local service club, or while buying fresh fruit at the Worthington Farmers Market.
Better yet, we know what it’s like to live here. We know what the schools are like on the inside. We know which communities have the best sidewalks and culs-de-sac for playing on summer nights. If you want a little land and high-speed internet, we know where to send you. And if you’re persistent, we might even let you in on the best place to get tacos or watch a local performance.
Local realtors also have better connections. Since we live, work, and play here in Columbus, we know all the right people.
If your home needs some work (like most do) to get it listed for top dollar, we can help you find a handyman, roofer, plumber, or electrician to help. We have a list of folks we know and trust to do the best possible work. Plus, we can help you make sense of city development projects, HOAs, zoning and bylaws, and any other bureaucratic processes you encounter along the way.
Still unconvinced? You should know that local realtors also get better exposure. We have access to multiple listing services that out-of-town agents can’t access. That means we know our market trends and theirs, but they don’t know ours.
On top of that, the agents at my office are the only ones in Columbus who use a specific marketing strategy to ensure homes get in front of tens of thousands of eyeballs. (Yep, you read that right.) Our average listing tour video gets more than 25,000 views. We spend a lot of time and money making sure our strategy will get the most exposure for each home.
And finally, if none of the above have sealed the deal, keep in mind that local realtors offer better service. We live here, which means we have more “skin in the game” than an out-of-towner. We can’t afford not to give you the best possible experience.
Sure, out-of-town agents may get away with coming to your house one time and then showing up for closing… but wouldn’t you expect more from your neighbor? I hope so.
When I’m working with clients, my reputation is on the line. I live in Columbus with you. What I do (or don’t do) matters.
The bottom line: don’t settle for an agent who does the bare minimum, offering no connections and little exposure. If you genuinely want to sell your home, find yourself a local real estate agent.
And if you have any questions about buying, selling, or living here in Columbus, give me a call! I’m happy to help.