Expert: Dick Dennis - 7/13/2006

Question
I live in town A.  Would it be to my benefit to use a real estate agent in or near town A or another agent (recommended from a co-worker) that leaves in town B which is about 45 minutes away?

to me, the benefit would be for a local agent, since they are closer, and may know the area.  my husband says it does not matter at all.
Thanks for your help.-

Answer
After 37 years in this business, Lori, I am sorry to say your husband has a misconception. Now who would you rather use? Someone who is very familiar with your market around your house? Or would you rather use someone who is 40 miles away who is familiar with the market 40 miles away, but would have to flounder to know what the market is around your house? Who would you rather have as an agent? Someone who is close by in case an offer is to be presented? Or someone who is 45 minutes away and may not bother to present the offer but may just tell the cooperating agent to go ahead and present it himself, ignoring his duty as his agency for his seller?

Yes, Lori, you should check around for good producing agents in your area and engage one that is a producer. That person KNOWS the local market.

I do wish you well.

Dick Dennis            dixiedee13@aol.com