Five Questions With: Robin Nicholson

Robin Nicholson is a broker and associate with Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty, and based in its Narragansett offices. She spoke recently with the Providence Business News about the hands-on work of selling residential real estate.

PBN: You became a real estate agent 10 years ago. What inspired the career?

NICHOLSON: With a partner I had run my own business for a number of years and felt ready for a change. Like many who enter the field of real estate, I probably had somewhat unrealistic expectations. A love of houses and desire for a flexible schedule are not reasons to go into this business! I quickly learned that real estate is more than a career; it is a lifestyle requiring diverse skills and absolute devotion to your clients. I have enjoyed its wide spectrum of activities and tasks – from studying sales trends and activity, to promoting properties via advertising and networking with global affiliates, to sometimes even snow shoveling! We do whatever it takes to best serve our clients.

PBN: Is this now a buyer’s market in the Narragansett area? Or is it more evenly matched?

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NICHOLSON: Rhode Island is now seeing good, moderate growth in overall sales. That can vary from one area to another and in different segments of the market, but the general increase in sales has helped balance inventory while still providing good options for buyers in every price point.

PBN: What is the strength of Narragansett and the South County properties?

NICHOLSON: Narragansett (and South County in general) is a great area in that it appeals to both primary and vacation home markets. The beaches are spectacular and amenities are close at hand without being obtrusive. There is ample opportunity for investors with strong seasonal and student rentals, and property taxes compare favorably to other areas. Jamestown is a great option for boaters and offers tranquility just minutes from the myriad cultural and sporting activities of Newport.

PBN: What are buyers looking for in homes in this area?

NICHOLSON: Waterfront, water views, water access. Also, in recent years, we have seen interest in vacation homes that can eventually transition to primary residences as buyers retire or become empty nesters. So amenities like garages, first-level bedrooms and built-in technology features take on more importance. Rather than summer home they are thinking second home.

PBN: How can sellers best showcase their properties in the winter months? Any concrete tips?

NICHOLSON: Certainly the conventional advice applies: exteriors as tidy as possible, the property should appear approachable and welcoming with clean driveway and walkways, and any weather-related maintenance issues should be dealt with immediately. That said, a property’s digital appearance is of utmost importance, essentially your first showing to potential buyers. Our firm employs an in-house, professional photographer to best present offerings on websites and in social media with beautiful photos and video. This is instrumental in moving buyers from web browsing to an in-person viewing.

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