Selling Outside Your Geographic Comfort Zone--What Would You Do?

Norma, you have to ask yourself some questions first. Are you willing to drive two hours to meet with a home inspector or an appraiser? Are you willing to drive two hours to do an open house? Are you willing to drive two hours to ________? I think it is in the best interests to refer them to a trusted agent and ask the agent to stay in the loop.

Long term client is the key phrase. There's already trust. Take the job.

I would represent them if they were clients, and specifically asked me to represent them.  But that's the only time I'd do it. 

Roll up those sleeves and carpe diem....

I would be reluctant to represent a buyer if it is in a different county than the one I work. I'd lean more towards taking a listing in a different county than a buyer, but two hours away would be too difficult to service so I wouldn't do it. Representing a buyer in the market condition it is in today probably could work out, in my opinion, since homes are not exactly flying off the market, but you know what SoCal traffic can be like. Best of luck, 

I use referrals when it is outside of my own comfort zone. Nothing better!

I know my area well.  I'm also licensed in 2 states.  That said, I don't hesitate to refer to known experienced agents.

The key here is "what is my comfort zone?"That's quite different from market area..

Hi Norma, Only you can answer the question and I think you know he answer. Represent your client. A good professional can handle whatever they need to. 

Good morning Norma,  my clients' best interests come first. However, I have gone out of my comfort zone on more than one occasion for long-time clients who have asked me to do so.   They trusted me and knew I would be honest with them.   I think you should do it as long as you don't mind the ride, which it sounds like you don't.   Your client has faith in you.  That says a lot.  

There are pros and cons to moving to far afield from one's geographic area. Obviously the personal pros to grown in knowledge is a big plus. But one thing I pride myself on is being able to provide my clients with the best possible information to make decisions and it could be hard to live up to that in an area one doesn't know. I'd probably share the business with a local expert.

Norma, I don't ordinarily list far outside of my local area, but I do sell homes that are, as we say in DC, beyond the Beltway.  Today we have the tools to help us do our homework.  With the help we get from Google Maps, virtual tours and navigation systems while we're out previewing, I think we can do a fine job for our buyer clients. I'd say go for it.  You can probably do a better job with your skill and experience than 90% of the local agents.

Norma, good for you!  I think it's a great idea to stretch yourself, and you'll do a great job for you clients.

Hey, Norma!  I included this post in today's Last Week's Favorites post.  And Happy June!

Seldom do I wander out of my yard. Refferalls make me better money with no risk.

Norma, you are doing the right thing by acquainting yourself with the area. It's your commitment that will help your client win!

(And frankly, in this age of Internet, there is no secret! I work demographic niche and work in about 40+ towns, and yes, expert at it, too!)

Norma

This is one of those IT DEPENDS questions. I think that in many cases going outside your geographic area is not representing the interests of your clients appropriately, for a host of reasons, and a referral is better. 

Given the scenario you are describing it could work, provided the client clearly understand and agrees with the pros and cons of your representation, and you really do know the market well enough. Partnering with an agent who is willing to do so and is qualified could be a good solution. One has to think about the time involvement with inspections and such.

Jeff

Hi Norma, I hope by now that you and your client have found the right property. If not, you will. As a side not you demonstrate your true professionalism by questioning this relationship and them the courage to do what you need to do.