Whether you are looking to purchase your very first home or are selling your final house before retirement, it’s always important to work with a seasoned, local realtor. Why? The better question to ask is simply, why not? However the market fluctuates, you can miss out on some huge benefits if you rely on anyone other than a local expert to guide you through the process.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss five reasons why you should work exclusively with an experienced agent in the local North of Boston market. Buying and selling can be extremely stressful, especially without the right guide. Read on to learn why working with a local agent makes all the difference.

Looking for advice on finding the right Realtor for you? Click here to read our blog about interviewing real estate agents.

1. They Stay In The Know

Realtors who are the most active in their communities are much better positioned to know about properties not yet listed for sale. The best realtors, even from different agencies, often share exclusive market information as a matter of professional courtesy. Top producers are usually the first to know. They understand your local market trends—Is inventory low in town and more advantageous for buyers? Is inventory high? If potential sellers need to make their home stand out, a local realtor knows how to better market key amenities. They will know potential clients who have been looking in your area and may want to see your home. Seasoned realtors are constantly touring properties and discussing the latest developments in their local markets. No one is more connected to the quickly changing real estate landscape.

2. They Maximize Value

They know how much money you should be spending on a home in a particular neighborhood. Local agents understand the value of certain amenities like garage parking or a swimming pool in your area. Anyone can pull “comparable” sales from MLS listings, but only an experienced local realtor can read between the lines to find those neighboring properties that will raise the value of your home. Pricing matters. Your home’s value isn’t best determined by Zillow estimates or what your neighbors think. Only a highly successful, local agent can accurately gauge the market and price your home correctly. They understand how to get you the best return on investment possible.

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Preparing to buy a home? Read these other articles from our blog for more tips and insights.

• What to Know When Moving From a Condo to a House
• 5 Things to Consider to Get Your Offer Accepted
• How to Maximize the Value of Your Home Purchase

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3. They Live Near Their Work

Local realtors live in or near the communities they serve. Why is this such an important advantage? As your neighbors, they are more knowledgeable about key distinctions like local school differences and area amenities. How does trash removal work? Does the town allow on street parking in the winter? Local realtors know the towns they serve. They can even tell you the difference between buying a house on one end of a street versus the other. Don’t take a chance on someone who hasn’t spent time in the community you plan to call home.

4. They Understand The Rules

Let’s say you’re interested in joining a condominium community in your local area but have never dealt with a homeowner’s association. Chances are that an experienced agent has already sold units in the same complex. They can better advise you about any restrictions, potential fees or upcoming assessments. What if you run into a glitch during your real estate transaction? Your local agent has established strong working relationships with area mortgage specialists, appraisers, home inspectors and insurance agents. They all have a role to play to make sure the process runs as smoothly as possible.

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Selling your home in the Boston area? Consider these other posts from our blog.

• What Can I Do If My Home Isn’t Selling?
• Should I Stage My Home Before Putting it on the Market?
• How to Sell Your Home For the Most Amount of Money

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5. They Are People Connectors

If you’re working with a local realtor, they are never far away once you’ve settled into the community. You may bump into them at the local coffee shop or while buying groceries and can answer any question you may have. They will know the best restaurants to try or upcoming events to watch out for. Looking for a reputable landscaper or a plumber who will call you back? Your real estate agent has cultivated relationships with local vendors who offer reliable service to their clients. Also, top producers often host appreciation events for former clients where you can network with other new neighbors and friends.

At the end of the day, experience matters. Would you rather fly in a plane with a new pilot who just received their license and has only taken a few test flights in an unfamiliar area? Wouldn’t you prefer someone who has flown the same worn path with complete confidence and success? It may not be hard to secure a real estate license, but very few hold the honor of becoming top producers in their local markets. There are few investments in life as expensive or impactful as home ownership. Why take a chance on anyone but a seasoned, local North of Boston real estate agent?

Looking to buy or sell in the North of Boston area? Discover Andersen Group Realty’s unparalleled services today. Click here to send us an email or call 781-729-2329 to get started.