What does “local” really mean when it comes to real estate?
A local real estate agent is not just someone working within the local MLS. This is an expert with deep ties to the area in which homeowners are looking to buy or sell. They know which listings may not surface in standard searches, understand neighborhood-specific disclosures, track pricing trends, understand how to evaluate properties in the neighborhoods they know best, and know the best way to close real estate transactions faster and more frequently than those less “in the know.”
The Power of Local Market Knowledge
Agents who not only work in a specific area but also live in it have a distinct edge over other agents. Personal connections within the community and colleagues give them a fully informed perspective on the area’s market conditions. This includes early awareness of upcoming properties, price changes, and buyer demands before they become common knowledge. Plus, a genuinely local agent keeps clients in the loop on the neighborhood’s unique rules or disclosures, sidestepping frustrating surprises later.
Ellen Zetmeir works and resides in Brookside and has helped dozens of neighbors, new and old, buy and sell their homes!
Such first-hand knowledge gleaned from recent, nearby transactions allows a local agent to spot microtrends that go unnoticed in public or national reports. Being so active “on the ground” lets them gauge how fast houses are moving, identify features driving the most interest, and recognize behavior patterns in both buyers and sellers.
Beyond their foundational understanding of the local market, they are also intimately familiar with the types of homes in their area. Ellen works almost exclusively in Brookside, for example, where homes are often over 100 years old. Knowing historic homes inside and out includes hands-on familiarity with the unique challenges – and exciting opportunities! – they can present. This expertise gives her buyers the confidence they need to make smart, informed decisions, and helps her sellers spotlight everything that makes their property desirable.
Trusted Network of Real Estate Pros
From roofing, plumbing, and tree care professionals to lenders, inspectors, and estate sales experts, Ellen has a guy for everything!
Real estate agents are not the only professionals involved in buying or selling properties, but they are reliable sources of information and recommendations about contractors, lenders, inspectors, or any specialists that may be needed throughout the process. A local agent will have hands-on, real-life experience working with these pros and will be able to recommend the right one for any buyer or seller in any situation.
Ellen’s 10+ years working as a real estate agent in Brookside have helped her build an extensive network of specialists in everything from plumbers with old house experience to lenders with local market expertise. Her team of trusted service providers has helped her clients avoid delays, reduce costs, and enjoy surprise-free peace of mind throughout every inspection, repair, and step of the transaction, each and every one handled by experts delivering reliable results.
Click here to check out Ellen’s network of reliable home service providers over on her I’ve Got A Guy page!
