By Arlen Malecha, Realtor
Did you know that people who hold a real estate license in Minnesota can help clients buy and sell homes throughout the entire state, and there are many Realtors that travel far and wide to get clients wherever they can? If you think about it, though, does it really makes sense to use an agent that doesn’t actually know the community where you are looking to purchase or sell a home? Can an agent really do justice in selling your home if they are located an hour or more away? Can they do the best job of finding your new home in a community they know nothing about?
There are also several MLS (Multiple Listing Services) that Realtors use to market your home. Getting your home listed with the most appropriate services can have a big impact on how well your house is marketed. An agent from another area may not have access to the MLS where you are trying to buy or sell a home, and that can be a big problem.
There is an old adage that “all politics are local.” I submit that real estate, like politics, is local as well. Local agents know the community and can help you select a home that not only fits your style but your lifestyle as well. Additionally, they may know of homes that will be coming on the market soon, which gives you a larger selection to choose from.
Local agents work with local mortgage lenders that we know and trust to get the job done on time, every time. A well-prepared team consisting of client, agent and lender makes your home-buying experience less stressful.
There are many factors to consider when selecting the right neighborhood for you – schools, recreational opportunities, commute times, turnover rates, traffic, trains and more.
If you are looking to build a new home, local agents know the builders in the area and will introduce you to two or three trusted builders.
I’ve had friends who have wanted me to help them find a property in another community which I am not familiar with. I would much rather refer them to an agent who lives and works in that area, someone who knows the community. Could I help them? Yes. Could someone local be a better resource for them? Absolutely!
If you are looking to buy or sell a home, talk to a few local agents and choose the one you feel is best suited to represent you. If you receive a marketing postcard in the mail from a Realtor, be sure to check where their home office is located. If they are from a big city 40 miles away, remember they don’t know your neighborhood like a local Realtor does.
Arlen Malecha, local REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker South Metro, can be reached at 507-581-0303 or arlen.malecha@gmail.com.
