Realtor Perspectives

Jim Watson, Coldwell Banker Watson Realty in Rutland, Castleton Corners, Killington, and Ludlow, Vermont

From the July/August 2004 print version of New England Showcase for Central & Northern Vermont

New England Showcase recently interviewed Jim Watson, co-owner/broker with his wife, Joan, of Coldwell Banker Watson Realty, which has offices in Rutland, Castleton Corners, Killington and, most recently, Ludlow.

Showcase: What is your connection to Central Vermont?

Watson: I was born in Windsor, Vermont, and grew up in Taftsville. I attended schools in Woodstock and graduated from the University of Vermont. Joan was born and raised in Rutland, graduating from Mount St. Joseph Academy and attending the College of St. Joseph in Rutland. We were married at the Mission Farm Church in Killington.

Showcase: How long have you been working in the real estate industry?

Watson: We have been full time in the real estate business in Central Vermont since 1972 and have owned our own business since 1977. We purchased our first Coldwell Banker franchised office in 1999 and now have four franchised locations.

Showcase: What is special about the Central Vermont region in terms of lifestyle and real estate?

Watson: The special thing about Central Vermont is that it offers world-class natural amenities for all four seasons of the year, which I believe is the greatest appeal of Vermont. The fishing, skiing, hunting, hiking, snowmobiling, water sports, biking, and a myriad of other outdoor endeavors are at our doorsteps every day. One of our company goals is to be able to provide real estate services “From The Mountains To The Lakes” to better serve the diverse interests of residents and visitors.

Showcase: How have things changed since you've been in the real estate business?

Watson: I would say there have been two major changes in real estate. One is worldwide marketing due to the Internet. This change has required advanced and continuous education for Realtors and has broadened the clientele and diversified the people of the region. The second major change is the growth of the franchise brands, especially Coldwell Banker and their ability to service the relocation market and provide robust referral services. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, for example, has 50 percent market share in the Boston metropolitan market and, therefore, has become a huge generator of vacation and resort referrals into the Coldwell Banker Referral Network. This directed business is a major benefit that the franchised agencies enjoy.

Showcase: What trends do you expect to see in real estate in Vermont over the next 3 to 5 years?

Watson: The Internet will continue to drive change in how we market property and will make the Realtor’s services even more important in providing information and on-the-ground services to clients and customers.

Showcase: What is the most common piece of advice you offer your clients who are seeking property? selling property?

Watson: I advise clients and customers to use professionals who have proven experience and expertise. Selling clients need professional honest advice and a full-service print and digital marketing plan in order to make their property more competitive in the marketplace. I point out the fact that real estate agencies are not created equal and there is a vast variety in the level of commitment to providing services and getting the job done.

Realtor Perspectives

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