By Sandra Zunino

At Exit Latham Realty in Easton, agents do more than simply show houses, they ensure a successful real estate transaction through commitment and teamwork.

While Exit Latham Realty is the new kid on the block as far as real estate agencies go, broker, Jim Latham, has 40 years of experience in real estate on the Eastern Shore. He opened the Exit Realty franchise last November and already Exit Latham Realty has more than 60 listings placing them as number four in Talbot County for listings.

Currently 10 agents work out of the office, located at 29 Dover Street in downtown Easton. Jim says he would like to hire three to five more agents, but admits he is very conservative about who he will take on. “As far as I’m concerned,” he says, “they have to fit in with the group.”

Jim says he wants to see a team effort with agents supporting each other and cooperating to provide clients with the best real estate purchase and sale experience possible.

Jim says he chose the Exit Realty franchise for several reasons. Not only is Exit Realty one of the fastest growing real estate companies in North America, it benefits the agent by providing training and tools to create a highly skilled professional and lower cost for the agent.

“It is really a great company and I was glad to be able to bring it to this area,” says Jim. Exit Latham Reality is the only Exit franchise in Talbot County, covering Caroline and Dorchester counties as well. There is also an Exit Realty franchise in Queen Anne’s County. It is widespread on the Western Shore.

The use of the latest technology, including the internet to assist clients is paramount at Exit Latham. A new, highly comprehensive website has just been erected to assist clients and agents alike. Not only are Exit Latham listings on the site, MLS listings can be found there as well.

“That is where people make their initial move to look at real estate now,” says Jim, “on the internet.”

The purchase of real estate is often the most important investment for consumers with many variables that must be addressed to complete the transaction successfully. “Today’s agents don’t just show properties and write up sales agreements,” says Jim. “They guide the client as to where to obtain a mortgage, where to do closing, home owners insurance and home inspection services.”

Exit Latham Realty refers clients to Steve Bealefeld of Mortgage Financial Group, Inc. as a trusted source for financing. Steve’s commitment to ensure a seamless transaction is in keeping with the integrity of Exit Latham.

As further incentive for clients, anyone who lists or sells with Exit Latham receives a 10 percent discount on Lowe’s Home Improvement store products for up to $10,000 in discounts.

While Jim says the Easton location is one of the best locations in town to operate from in terms of visibility and accessibility, he is considering opening an additional office in St. Michaels in the future. “People have indicated they would like to work down there,” he says.

To learn more about Exit Latham Realty or to view their listings, visit www.exitlathamrealty.com, or call 410-822-2152 for more information.