How well do you know your territory? It seems like an easy question to many in our industry. Many of us will answer we know know our territory either very well or reasonably well.
Ask yourself a few questions:
1. Am I able to give good directions to restaurants? Hotels? Grocery stores?
2. Do I know the school district and specific schools in the area?
3. Where are the parks and movie theaters for their kids or pets?
The largest military base in the world, Ft. Hood, TX, is in my territory. Most of my clients are new to the area. I always show the the soldier/client the closest gate into Ft Hood from each property. I love to talk about my hometown and my pride does show through. I take the time to learn what is happening on Ft Hood and the surrounding area. When your client asks a question about your territory; you should be able to answer with some degree of confidence.
Why did I bring this up? This week I had a soldier/client who remarked that I certainly knew my way around the town and he was surprised the town was much bigger and had more to offer than he first thought. That comment didn't surprise me. What did surprise me is that he had talked to other Realtors in the area and no one had given him the information that I did in normal "car conversation" as we drove to the different properties.
If you have ever moved into a new area you know you want to acquire as much knowledge as possible to help with the transition. WE are the experts in our field and we owe it to our clients to not only know the market but know the area. Take a few minutes to take the long way to the office or a different drive to the grocery store. You might be surprised to see that new Starbucks being built...I know I was!
