Why should you use a local Realtor?

Below is a California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) article, that points out that trying to stay current with local issues in an unfamiliar area is a recipe for court-time ... Moreover, is it in the best of the client, if the agent sells in an un-familiar area?

Here is a portion of the article on "10 ways to get sued" in California real estate... it deals with selling properties outside of the Agent's area of expertise.  These type of lawsuits happen far too often, as any Southern California Broker will agree.

Selling Out-of-Area Property

Problem: Many lawsuits arise from agents working outside their geographic area of competence.

Each city has its own ordinances, point of sale, building codes, use limitations, inspection and disclosure requirements, etc. In addition, each area has its own particular disclosures and forms known to the local practitioners. These could include local fire hazard areas, pending changes in zoning, retrofit, rent control, noise issues, nuisances, land slippage, septic or sewer issues, etc.

California law requires licensees to be competent in the area of real estate in which they practice. The Department of Real Estate (DRE) can revoke or suspend a real estate license if a licensee "demonstrated negligence or incompetence in performing any act for which he or she is required to hold a license."

Solution: Rather than try to handle properties outside of your geographic area, it is best to just take a referral fee and sleep at night.

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Here are the ABC's that you should be familiar with:

Advertising - the agent pays all advertising costs.
Bargain - Research shows that 77% of sellers felt their commission was "well spent".
Contract writing - An agent can supply standard forms to speed the transaction.
Details - An agent frees you from handling the many details of selling a home.
Experience and Expertise - In marketing, financing, negotiations, and more.
Financial Know-how - An agent is aware of the many options for financing the sale.
Glossary - A real estate professional understands and can explain, real estate lingo.
Homework - An agent will do homework on how to best market your home.
Information - If you have a question, an agent will know (or can get) the answer.
Juggle showings - An agent will schedule and handle showings, and Realtor Tours.
Keeps your best interest in mind - An agent has a fiduciary responsibility to you.
Laws - A real estate professional will be up to date on real estate laws that affect you.
Multiple Listings Service - The most effective means of bringing together buyers and sellers.
Negotiation - An agent can handle all price, and term issues.
Open Houses - a popular marketing technique that many sellers insist on.
Prospects - An agent has a network of contacts that can produce potential buyers.
Qualifies Buyers - Avoid opening your home to "looky loos".
Realtor - An agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors, and subscribes to a specific code of ethics. Not all real estate agents are Realtors.
Suggested Price - An agent will do a market analysis to establish a fair price range.
Time - One of the most valuable resources in an agent.
Unbiased opinion - Most owners are too emotional about their homes to be objective.
VIP - That's how you'll be treated by your agent.
Wisdom - A knowledgeable agent can offer the wisdom that comes with experience.
X marks the spot - An agent is right there with you thorugh the final signing of papers.
You - who the agent is working for.
Zero hour support - Selling a home can be an emotional experience. An agent can help.