What's the Difference between a Boutique Real Estate Agency and a Big Box Franchise Agency?
Like most things, the answer is not clear-cut. There are benefits to both. Franchises have big names with brand recognition and lots and lots of agents. But the beauty of a smaller agency is that the agents are not just anyone with a license but selectively chosen to represent the agency. Small agencies also tend to have a "niche."
What's a Niche?
A niche is an area of the market specializing in a specific interest and ability. Our Agency based in Lisbon Maine is focused on its community. Haggerty Realty sponsor's local baseball and soccer teams and of course we sponsor the Moxie Festival. Haggerty also donates to local food pantries and is on the board of Positive Change Lisbon.
So what's the benefit?
The benefit is a focused effort to build strong relationships in the community we live in, to provide professional and personalized service, and to handle every client and transaction uniquely. Our agents will work on your real estate transaction expertly from beginning to end and you'll build a strong relationship with your agent due to the continuous one-on-one interactions. You'll also be supporting a locally owned small business. And it's highly likely you'll be working with the broker/owner; Cheryl Haggerty. Do you know the owner of insert franchise name here? Haggerty boasts over 50 years of experience - that's a lot of knowledge!
It's often believed that a large franchise can offer more services, access larger data bases and have more connections. The internet is a great equalizer. We have the same access to the MLS, we are on major home-search websites, we belong to real estate boards and use social media. And we promptly respond to all inquiries.
Bottom Line
There are good agents in both styles of agencies but if you're looking for a personalized unique experience, an agent that understands the local area with contacts in the local area, than a boutique agency is worth a look. We value your business and hope to maintain the relationship after the sale.