Why is it so important to have a Buyer or Seller Consultation? One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is: Hey Pam, how come you keep encouraging a Buyer or Seller consultation? Since your extranet service is so comprehensive and timely, why can't I just call you when I see something (BUYERS) or when I'm ready to sell (SELLERS). The answer is you can, but you'll be missing a whole boatload of knowledge, which can greatly effect your timetable and untimately, the value you derive from your purchase or sale. This is why:

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	**As timely and comprehensive as this extranet site is, it only includes properties listed in the MLS. In a tight houseing market the MLS is only a portion of available properties. Because I network with the top listing agents in the MetroWest and Greater Worcester areas, I often know about a property that will be coming on the market but isn't yet. I can then give my Buyer-Clients the "heads-up" on these properties. If I haven't met with you yet, I can't do that. ** Unless you actually work in the market day-to-day, it's very difficult to discern which towns are on the upswing or downswing. You may pick towns that are will established but because of demographics don't offer long term value. At the same time, you may exclude towns that because of who's moving in, are real up & comers and are a great buy. In other words, towns often change faster than public perception. During a consultation, we can discuss your individual needs and advise you where you may want to concentrate.
	** Similarly, if you don't work in the market everyday, would you know that a house that looks great on paper is right down the street from a power plant that's going in which will effect it's values? Or that a smaller home, which you can now get for a lower price, will escalate in value once the subdivision around the corner goes in next year? What you receive via the extranet is INFORMATION. Having a professional interpret that information so you can make an informed decision is KNOWLEDGE. ** Lastly, (and this is the most inportant), if you call an agent simpy to get you in to see a property, what you'll get is simply a tour guide, and if you wish to make an offer, a secretary, who will write up an offer you wish to make. But, without a relationship with YOUR broker, you cannot receive advice, counsel, or the agent's true opinion of the market and prices. And even if they did give you advice, how much could you believe, given that you've never developed a relationship?
	I am aware that when you're just starting the process, you may not be ready for a relationship. I UNDERSTAND! That's why I provide this service free, with no obligation for a period of time so you can get your feet wet. I am also aware that because of pushy, obnoxious salespeople out there, many of us are a little reticent of taking that next step. I UNDERSTAND! That's why I adhere to a "No Sales Call Policy" in the beginning, I will e-mail you until we have established a relationship. But we also know that unless you establish a relationship, all you'll receive from an agent are "FUNCTIONARY TASKS", rather than benefit from the FIDUCIARY counsel, expertise, and accountability that a Realtor who's your teammate can provide. Because of my unique CONSULTING rather than SALES approach to my Real Estate practice, you can meet with me confident that you WILL NOT BE SOLD TO!

pam@pamscott.com