More and more homeowners are choosing independent brokers, like Seven Gables, as their choice in real estate firms over the big, brand name national companies. According to a survey conducted by an independent research team of over 3,000 homeowners across the U.S., they preferred independent brokerages for the following reasons:
Authenticity
Most independent brokerages focus on quality over quantity with more emphasis on customer service and customer experience. Typically with independent brokerages, the founder is more intimately involved in the day-to-day activity of the business which in turn fosters a more personalized, creative and resourceful environment.
Mike Hickman, founder and CEO of Seven Gables has this to say about the nature of a smaller firm, “As an independent brokerage, we are deeply committed to adapting to every changing market condition in order to better serve our clients. Additionally, with our ‘culture of giving’, our associates are deeply rooted in the communities they serve.”
Neighborhood Intel
Many independent brokerages set up shop within the communities they serve which allows for hyper-local knowledge and doorstep service. Local agents, who live and work within their community, tend to have more intimate knowledge of the in’s and out’s of the neighborhoods which proves to be vital information for clients moving into the area.
Adaptability
With less red tape and bureaucracy, independent firms are also able to adapt more easily to ever-changing market conditions. And since they tend to be more in-tune to their local market, they are able to make a shift quickly and effectively.
A Culture of Giving
Because of their close connection to the communities they serve, smaller firms tend to adopt a culture of giving back. Whether it be sponsoring community events, volunteering their time to local charities or supporting local, small businesses, these agents are deeply ingrained in the communities and personally invested in their growth.
Deep Bench of Talent
The 80/20 rule is very applicable in most big box real estate companies, meaning 20% of the agents are responsible for 80% of the sales. Smaller firms must be more selective in the agents they choose, only bringing on agents who share in the same values and moral foundation that the company is built upon, in order to protect the brand they have worked so hard to build. So what consumers get is a dedicated agent focused on their specific needs and committed to achieving their desired results. It’s a difference many home buyers and sellers are choosing more and more in today’s ever changing real estate climate.
