This week’s Q&A column is written by Trudy McCullough, VP of Relocation & Client Services, and Britni Spurlock, Relocation Specialist, at McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article, contact Trudy at 703-639-7387 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.
Question: How can my local real estate agent help me move long distance?
Answer: Buying and selling a home can be exciting and stressful all at the same time. Locally, most people know at least one real estate agent; whether an agent they have used before or someone they are acquainted with. If not, recommendations from a friend, family member, or trusted advisor are a great place to start.
However, there may come a time when you have a real estate need outside of your local real estate market. When looking for an agent, you have to remember that anyone can build a beautiful website and hire a professional marketing team to support them, that doesn’t guarantee they are experienced or the best agent for your needs.
We want to ensure you receive the same professional service anywhere in the world that you receive from us. The three most common reasons clients reach out for recommendations outside our local area include: job relocation, family needs, and life-style changes.
Job Relocation
Many employers offer a variety of packages from full relocation to flat-fee services, while other employers are not equipped to provide relocation services. If Realtor recommendations are part of your relocation program or suggested by a co-worker, you should still do your research. Job relocations add an extra level of stress due to time constraints of the position start, selling your current home, relocating family, and more.
The right Realtor is experienced in your market but also “relocation best practices,” fully understanding the relocation processes, additional paperwork, and requirements of the employer so that you can take full advantage of all relocation benefits. When you are not offered relocation benefits by your employer, you must find the right agent on your own; not just an experienced one, but an agent with a true relocation background, because it will make all the difference in your move.
Family Needs
From growing families to downsizing, inherited homes to vacant land, relocation trained agents are equipped to assist with all types of family situations as they arise. For example, when parents are no longer able to age in place, relocation agent services can include: complimentary market analysis noting as-is and repaired/improved values; supplier introductions from repairs to improvements and cleaners to movers.
A relocation trained agent is a full-service Realtor who specializes in the area and type of transaction you are navigating, as well as proficiency in working with out-of-town clients.
Life-Style Changes
Often buyers are comparing multiple areas as a potential destination for retirement, investment property or even a second home. Relocation specialists offer more than housing information; they provide cost of living comparisons, area tours, local life-style information, and market trends to assist you in decision making.
How is McEnearney Associates able to help?
Knowing a Realtor who is part of a truly global network of vetted professionals is key. At McEnearney Associates, we are fortunate to be a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE). LeadingRE is home to the world’s market-leading independent residential brokerages in over 70 countries, with 550 firms and 138,000 sales associates making 190 client introductions daily. Our by-invitation-only network is based on the unparalleled performance and trusted relationships that result in exceptional client experiences.
When you need an agent recommendation, anywhere in the world, McEnearney Associates are happy to help. We are your Trusted Relocation Resource.
If you would like a question answered in our weekly column or to set up an appointment with one of our Associates, please email: [email protected] or call 703-549-9292.
McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.McEnearney.com Equal Housing Opportunity. #WeAreAlexandria