As the saying goes: you don’t know what you don’t know.
That’s why, when you’re buying a house due to corporate relocation, it pays to pick a real estate agent who specializes in relocation-related moves.
Because, chances are, they do know what you don’t know. They’ve escorted other transplants much like you down this road before. They know where your head is at this point in the process—so they can proactively answer questions that you didn’t yet think to ask.
In addition, they thoroughly understand the corporate relocation process, so they can keep things moving smoothly between all the players—employees, employers, relocation providers—while guiding you through this very key part of your journey.
In other words, these miracle workers improve the relocation experience in a host of tangible and intangible ways—including these.
Relocation-focused Agents Work in Tight Timelines
Like any good real estate agent, an agent who specializes in relocation is driven to help you find—and close on—your dreamhouse. However, they also understand that the clock is ticking.
Invariably, relocating professionals are on an accelerated timeline; their employer wants them on the job asap. A relocation-focused agent knows how to work under pressure.
For example, if you request a whirlwind weekend of marathon house-hunting, they’ll make it happen without breaking a sweat. In addition, they can recommend trusted local resources, such as title companies and attorneys, which save you time and stress.
And they’re experts at managing parts of the home-buying process long-distance, like providing virtual home tours and even orchestrating a smooth remote closing—all designed to keep you on track.
Specialized Agents “Get” the Relocation Process
Relocation packages can be pretty unique animals. Benefits vary, as do processes and workflows. Agents who specialize in relocation know what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to get things done within the lines.
This is especially true if they’ve worked for your employer and/or relocation provider before.
In other words, they know—or know enough to ask—what home-related expenses are covered by your benefits, such as closing costs and short-term housing, if needed.
And assuming they’re part of your relocation provider’s vendor network (more on that later), they also know exactly what their role is and how to add value.
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Relocation Experts Make Awesome Local Guides
Agents who are relocation savvy already know what newcomers want to see and need to know about their new area. Remember, they’ve likely ushered some of your soon-to-be coworkers through this process before.
That can translate to small things that make a big difference. For example, in addition to showing you where the top schools are, they’ll tip you off when the school year starts and ends, which can vary by a month or more across the country. Good to know!
They can give you the inside scoop on everything from shopping and dining to traffic—expanding on local info your relocation provider should also be sharing.
In fact, experienced agents may already know which neighborhoods and areas appeal to employees and families moving in from other parts of the country. That means they can help you identify where you’ll be happiest—all of which will help you and your family acclimate faster.
Where Do You Find These Real Estate Wizards?
The best place to find an agent with relocation know-how is through your employer’s relocation provider. Or it should be, anyway!
For example, at UrbanBound, we offer a carefully vetted network of highly rated real estate professionals with relocation experience. Many have specialized training and/or designations; all are required to maintain our exacting standards. It’s part of our real estate program, UB Home.
This is just one of many ways we ensure an amazing relocation experience for our clients’ employees. Because home really is where the heart is. Learn more here.
