Buying Property in the Smokies
About Our Buyer's Representative
Buyers Specialist Beth Smith has earned the ABR® designation, a recognition of specialized training and considerable experience representing Buyers in real estate transactions. This is a level of professionalism achieved by less than 4% of all active Realtors, and is proof of her commitment to providing the best representation to her clients.
She also earned the prestigious GRI® designation, which requires in-depth training in legal and regulatory issues, technology, professional standards, and the sales process.
Her interest in ecological issues also led her to attain the GREEN® designation to assist Buyers who are interested in finding homes that are optimized to minimize their impact on the environment.
Being represented by such an experienced and knowledgeable REALTOR® can make the difference between an excellent experience and an excruciating one! You’ll have someone who knows the area market working for you, from initial market research to tying up all of the “loose ends” on the way to closing, and everything in between.
Beth was born and raised in southeast England and attended University College, London. Much traveled, Beth discovered the Smokies many years ago and realized this was her place to call ‘home!’ When not helping buyers find their next home she enjoys yoga, trivia, ballroom dancing, and relaxing with her partner, Richard.
Why Representation Matters
Buying real estate has long been a complicated process, and recent market volatility combined with the residual effects of new regulations implemented after the 2008 crash have made the process even more unwieldy. Missed steps in the process can cause loss of opportunities or even worse, serious financial harm. This is why now, more than ever, it is important to be represented by an experienced professional.
A Trusted Advisor and Ally
When choosing representation for your purchase, there are several qualifications to look for. The first is that your agent is a REALTOR®, as they are bound to a code of ethics much more stringent than state laws require. You also want an agent with years of experience, as trusting a major investment decision to a novice agent could leave you exposed to mistakes a veteran agent would not make. The third recommendation is that your agent is an Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR®), which indicates they focus on representing Buyers and have specialized education to do so.
Is There a Needle in this Haystack?
Whether you’re looking for an investment cabin, vacation getaway, primary residence, or undeveloped land, a savvy agent can cut through the market noise and help you locate properties that fit your needs. Not only does this save you considerable time (as well as expense), but long-time agents often know of properties that, while not listed, may be available for sale. Over the years Beth has sold numerous “off market properties” to lucky buyers who may have otherwise never seen them.
Don’t Pay Too Much … But Don’t Offer Too Little!
With considerable competition for the best properties, a well-crafted offer can be the difference between a contract and a rejection. Knowing the market conditions as well as when and how to negotiate often saves a successful buyer money in the long run – as an ABR®, Beth will research comparable sales to help you make the right offer the first time!
Negotiations and Problem-Solving
At the point you get a property under contract, your agent’s knowledge and work ethic becomes a major factor in the process. With a gauntlet of lender, inspection, and title deadlines to navigate and negotiate, it is imperative that everything gets addressed in a timely manner. Beth’s reviews often commend her tenacity in solving problems and negotiating to protect her client’s best interest.
Tying Up the Loose Ends
A good agent’s work doesn’t end at the closing table, as there are often items that need to be addressed after closing. Beth is a strong believer in “service after the sale” to make sure her clients are satisfied, which is why so many of them refer her to their family and friends, and become repeat customers … and friends!