Yes! Realtors are licensed professionals, but their licenses are issued at the state level. If your realtor is licensed in the state where you’re purchasing the home, they can legally help you buy. However, even if they aren’t licensed in that state, they can still assist you by partnering with a local agent or referring you to trusted professionals in their network.

Realtors often have extensive connections across the country, which means they can still add significant value to your search and purchase, even when you’re buying out-of-state.

How Can an Out-of-State Realtor Add Value?

Buying a home in another state can feel like navigating uncharted territory. Between unfamiliar neighborhoods, local market quirks, and the logistics of remote coordination, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: your trusted realtor doesn’t need to live in your target area to become your ultimate guide. In fact, they might just be your secret weapon for a smooth, stress-free purchase. Let’s explore how an out-of-state realtor can add unexpected value, and even a little magic, to your homebuying journey.

1. Helping You Build the Right Local Team

   Your out-of-state realtor can connect you to trusted local professionals. This includes real estate agents in their network, mortgage lenders, home inspectors, contractors, and attorneys. By leveraging their industry connections, they can ensure you have the right people on the ground.

2. Acting as Your Advocate and Guide

   If you have an existing relationship with a realtor you trust, working with them on an out-of-state purchase ensures you’re dealing with someone familiar with your needs. They can explain the process, manage paperwork, and guide you every step of the way, even if they partner with a local agent to finalize the purchase.

3. Helping You Narrow Down Options

   Out-of-state realtors can help you focus your search based on your priorities, whether it’s schools, neighborhood safety, affordability, or amenities. With access to national property databases and virtual tools, they can filter through listings to find homes that meet your needs.

4. Coordinating Virtual Showings and Research

   Technology has made it easier than ever to purchase a home remotely. Realtors can arrange virtual tours, provide video walkthroughs, and even visit properties in person on your behalf. They can also research local market trends, neighborhood insights, and potential resale value to give you a clear picture before you buy.

5. Managing the Details of Closing

   Buying a home involves a lot of paperwork, communication, and coordination. Your out-of-state realtor can help oversee the process, from negotiating terms and reviewing contracts to ensuring all necessary steps are completed by closing day. They can also ensure nothing gets overlooked, even if you’re unable to travel to sign documents in person.

Should I Work With My Trusted Realtor or Find Someone Local?

While a local agent may know the area well, an out-of-state realtor you trust can still play a key role in the purchase. Many realtors are familiar with handling interstate transactions and have partners in other states who can help. The right choice comes down to comfort and trust.

So, how do you choose? It all comes down to two things: trust and teamwork. If your go-to realtor already understands your priorities - whether it’s your obsession with natural light, your budget boundaries, or your must-have backyard space - they’re already halfway to winning your confidence. First and foremost, they should get you. They’ve also built a strong web of industry relationships over time, so they can handpick local inspectors, lenders, or attorneys who align with your needs. Finally, if they’re skilled at coordinating with local experts behind the scenes (eg. seamless communication, no dropped balls), they’re not just your agent, they’re your quarterback.

Bottom line? If your trusted realtor checks these boxes, they’re more than equipped to guide you, even from miles away. You’ll keep the comfort of working with someone who knows your story, while still tapping into hyperlocal expertise. Sometimes, the best of both worlds is just a conversation away.

Making Out-of-State Homebuying Simple

Buying a home in another state doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right realtor—whether they’re licensed locally or working with a trusted partner—you can successfully navigate every step of the process. From narrowing down homes to connecting you with local resources, an out-of-state realtor can offer guidance, save you time, and give you peace of mind.

At Vreeland Real Estate, we have the expertise and connections to help you buy your next home, no matter where it’s located. Whether you’re moving across state lines or exploring new opportunities, we’ll make the process smooth, efficient, and stress-free.