DELMAR — The relationship between would-be homeowner and realtor typically ends on closing day, but Equitas Realty is changing that.
An independent brokerage group, with offices in Delmar, Saratoga and Queensbury, wants to stay friends long after the contract is signed.
“We want to be lifelong partners,” said Paula Rice, associate broker. “We all live here, we raised our children here, we know what it is like owning a home here, and we have used all of these great vendors the Capital Region has to offer.” To which she hands over her smartphone to show off Equitas’ newest app, HomeKeeper.
“This HomeKeeper app, it’s a new program, and it’s like your own personal concierge,” said Kirsten Blanchard, associate broker. “It provides you with vendors that we as agents have used and recommended.”
Another effective tool to market your house is home staging. “Staging enhances your home’s best features, showcases the floor plan and maximizes the use of space. Most homeowners can implement staging strategies themselves and it does not have to cost money,” said Mary Canova, sales associate.
“I think (we), as agents, are given a lot more freedom to work with our clients on an individual basis,” said Rice, while explaining the benefits of working with an independent broker. There is no standard company formula that may prevent an agent from addressing the individual needs of a client. “We really are running our own business and our success depends on doing everything we can for our clients. What works for one client does not necessarily work for all clients. We have the flexibility and the know-how to customize plans and marketing strategies to fit a client’s unique circumstances.”
Rice, Blanchard, Canova and licensed sales associate Christina Hagen share office space at Main Square in Delmar. Together, with over 55 years experience in real estate, the four have an extensive knowledge of the Capital District and the trends affecting the local real estate market.
“Though we have years in the business, we’re forward thinking,” said Rice. “We know it’s important to have a presence on social media, especially for connecting with first time home buyers. You will find we advertise properties on Facebook, Instagram, Realtor.com, Zillow, and LinkedIn. Like some of the top properties in the area, we have the best of both worlds… We’ve kept the old world charm in ourselves, but we’ve been updated with modern amenities!”
— Equitas Real Estate
