“Caveat Emptor.”  You might remember this phrase from school; perhaps you learned it in an economics or civics class.  It is a Latin phrase that summarizes an ancient doctrine:  “Let the buyer beware.”  Although this term been around some 500 years, one could argue that it has never been more relevant than it is today.

As economies at home and around the world continue to free themselves from the grip of recession and inch toward recovery, it is imperative to be well-educated and to make prudent decisions across the financial spectrum.  Real estate is no exception.

The property landscape has changed significantly as the pendulum swings to once again recognize both buyers and sellers. The Internet, of course, is largely responsible, as it has provided global connectivity – any information, any time, for anyone who is interested.  Yet, while knowledge is the lynch-pin for many decisions, equally important is its interpretation.

This is where a professional Realtor comes in, to provide the guidance – the interpretation – to assist buyers or sellers in today’s turbulent real estate marketplace.  But buyer beware! Not all Realtors or real estate brokerages are created equal.

When you need a Realtor to help with your home purchase or sale, look for someone who is approachable, dedicated, helpful, committed, responsive, caring and personable.  Communication is key, and in today’s world communication comes from a variety of sources.  From landline to on-line, voicemail to e-mail, Facebook to face-to-face, social media to smartphones – you need someone who can utilize every tool in the communications tool chest to help you achieve success.

In this global economy, “around the block” takes on a whole new meaning.  Work with a brokerage that has local roots, but global connections.  It’s a web-based world, so a successful brokerage must be dialed-in to the virtual reality – SEO, YouTube, virtual tours.  These are not add-on’s, they are necessary to implement the appropriate strategies at the most efficient and effective times.

Last, but certainly not least, do not sacrifice integrity.  You want to work with an agent who is fair, honest, straight-forward, dependable, ethical and sincere.

“Caveat Emptor.”  Buyer beware, and be aware of what you’re getting when you buy not only real estate, but also real estate services.

-info@willisallen.com