Friends and associates often ask me why I don’t join up with one of the huge franchise real estate companies.
Well, over the last 25 years I was an associate (briefly) at several and discovered the following:
- The bureaucracy, fees and corporate culture was stifling and support was lacking
- The focus was on listings, listings, listings (that’s how they make the most money)
- I couldn’t give buyer clients the level of personal service I desired
Technology has leveled the playing field in two ways important for buyers to understand:
- Through MLS, every agent has the same access to every property.
- No matter what company an agent is affiliated with, he or she works for himself or herself (unless they are the owner).
To me, the difference to a buyer is knowledge, expertise and service. That’s why we at Wellesley Real Estate made a deliberate decision to be a boutique agency to focus on client service, not volume.
Many buyers don’t know what questions to ask when interviewing an agent. Personally, I think it’s simple. Here I’ll show you by interviewing myself:
Buyer: Am I working primarily with you and can I reach you when I need?
Mark: Absolutely! I am one of two principal brokers at Wellesley Real Estate. I am at your service. My cell is (508) 509-7895- call me day or night.
Buyer: How well do you know the area(s) I‘m interested in buying?
Mark: If you are looking in Wellesley or Natick, I have specialized in Wellesley and Natick real estate since 1980. I know these areas inside and out.
Buyer: Will you work to get me the best deal possible?
Mark: I believe in win-win and am a strong negotiator. I am working 100% for you and will fight hard to get you the most advantageous price and terms.
Buyer: You’re hired!
See how easy that was? Now please call me.
