Thinking Outside the Box – One Agent’s Unique Approach to Real Estate

RISMEDIA, June 19, 2009-(MCT)-Kristin Walker of Dunes Properties prefers two wheels instead of four. Her real estate philosophy-“It’s not about the house; it’s about the neighborhood”-is better showcased when she tours properties with clients who are biking alongside her.

“Island living is about hearing the ocean, the sun in your face and the wind in your hair, and you don’t get that in a car,” she said. “It’s the best way to get a feel for the lifestyle you’re about to lead.”

Walker specializes in downtown Charleston, South Carolina real estate and plans to partner with her Dunes Properties colleagues to show properties in other bike-able neighborhoods such as Byrnes Down in West Ashley, Snee Farm in Mount Pleasant and Folly Beach. Tours typically loop 3-5 miles.

For the venture, she bought four easy-to-ride Electra Townie bicycles: one for herself, two for prospective buyers and one for the real estate agent who specializes in the neighborhood.

She even earned a special designation from Colorado-based Pedal to Properties, which is trying to create a national network of cycling sellers. After all, a cycling real estate agent should know first-aid and how to change a flat tire in addition to a home listing’s details.

Walker said showing properties by bike helps prospective buyers see architectural details that are otherwise easy to miss, especially in downtown Charleston. It also takes some of the edge off finding a parking spot close to the property.

“It’s the small little details that you don’t see because you’re going 25-30 miles per hour,” she said.

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