Have you ever seen one of those real estate signs in the front yard that proudly proclaims "Area Specialist"? Or, perhaps you received a door hanger with those words emblazoned across the top. What it says and what it means could be two completely different things. If it got your attention, that was exactly what it was designed to do. But, before you take it literally, it would be wise to take a closer look at the credentials of the person making the claim.
You see, there are numerous designations that are recognized by real estate professionals as adding credibility to a person's ability to perform their duties to clients in a professional manner. "Area Specialist" is not such a designation. It typically is a person's way of conveying that they know the area. That could mean many things. It could mean that the agent making the claim to be an area specialist or expert has; actually worked in the area for a considerable time, that they live in the area, that they want to work more vigorously in an area, or that they simply wanted to get your attention.
Just because someone uses this terminology to describe themselves doesn't mean that they don't actually know the area. But, a homeowner in Orange County, California...or in any part of the country for that matter would be wise to ask some serious questions of anyone claiming to be area specialist. A few good questions to ask would be:
- How many homes have you listed and sold in this neighborhood in the past year?
- How many homes have you sold in this area where you represented a buyer?
- Why do you consider yourself an area specialist?
- In how many geographic areas are you advertising in which you represent yourself as an area specialist?
Are you beginning to see the big picture here? Being an area specialist connotes a familiarity with an area above that of the average real estate agent. If you are thinking of selling your Orange County home or condo, interviewing agents and selecting the right person for the job is an important step. Hiring the right person for the job can save you time and money. It would be my pleasure to send you The 10 Most Important Questions To Ask When Interviewing A Real Estate Agent. Call or email me.
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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