December 20, 2021 | Agents

Whether you’re buying or selling a home, finding the right agent is one of the first steps. While there’s no shortage of qualities to look for, one of the most crucial is neighbourhood expertise. Knowing a community allows your real estate professional to provide more knowledgeable and strategic service—which means a smoother experience and (hopefully) better results for you!  

Here are just a few reasons why you should work with an agent who has in-depth local neighbourhood expertise…

Their in-depth knowledge of the local market

While browsing the news will give you an idea of what’s happening in the local real estate market, true insight comes from an agent who either calls the area home, or works there often enough to feel like they do. 

The best Etobicoke real estate agent for you will stay on top of both long and short-term trends. If you’re a seller, they’ll know how to help you set the perfect price—one that ensures you get every penny you deserve, without being so high that it turns buyers off. If you’re buying, they’ll know when a home is seriously overpriced, and spot deals when they come along (if a number looks surprisingly low, they should also look into why and ensure that all due diligence is done).


Preparing to sell your property? Learn what to expect in some of our best selling resources.


They can better negotiate for your interests

An Etobicoke real estate agent who truly knows your area will have a more thorough knowledge and understanding of recent and historical listing and sold prices. They’ll also better understand variations that occur within the neighbourhood. This information is crucial during negotiations.

Whether you’re on the buying or selling side of a transaction, your agent can leverage past prices to justify the amount you’re asking for or offering. On the flip side, they can ensure they have a strategy in place if the numbers don’t necessarily look like they’re in your favour. 


Getting ready to start your home search? Browse some of our latest buying posts.


You’ll benefit from a stronger professional network

In most cases, it takes more than just a seriously talented real estate agent to facilitate a successful sale. More often than not, there’s a full team of experts involved. The real estate professional you work with should be able to refer you to the right people—and if they know your area well, there’s a good chance that their preferred vendors are the best local pros. 

If you’re buying, you’ll need a reputable lender and experienced real estate lawyer on your side—at the very least. If you’re selling, there may be a relatively lengthy list of service providers you’ll want to include to get your home in show-ready shape. From professional cleaners to stagers to landscapers, your agent may recommend any number of skilled experts who are just a hop, skip, and jump away. 

They know what it’s like to live in their communities

Whether your Etobicoke real estate agent actually lives in your neighbourhood or not, they should have an abundance of professional and personal experience there. It can make all the difference as you embark on your next chapter.

If you’re buying a home, an agent who knows your communities of interest inside and out can tell you more about the local schools, parks, average commute times, and places to grab a coffee than someone who isn’t intimately familiar with the area.

If you’re selling, an agent with neighbourhood expertise can take everything they know about your community and use it to your advantage. They’ll be perfectly equipped to market not just your property, but where it’s located, too.

Looking for the right Etobicoke real estate agent? Check out our guide to finding the right professional right here. 

Together, you can make a smart investment

For buyers, the future value of a home matters. That’s especially true if you’re purchasing an income property, but it’s important to keep in mind even if you’re searching for a place to settle down in the long term. 

A local agent with their ear to the ground should have a pretty good idea of what’s planned for your area in the years ahead. Are there any signs that it’s an up-and-coming neighbourhood? On the flip side, are there any developments that are likely to negatively impact local prices?

Working with an agent who has neighbourhood expertise is crucial, whether you’re buying or selling. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that the professional you work with knows the lay of the land. 


Interested in learning more about buying or selling with us? Discover more below.