Better Homeowners
A Tradition of Trust, Your REALTOR® For Life!

Don't Google Service provider near me - 12/17/2025

When the AC quits, the roof leaks, or a pipe bursts, most homeowners instinctively grab their phone and Google the nearest repair service. It feels quick, convenient, and straightforward. In fact, more than 80% of homeowners admit the internet is their first stop when they need help around the house.

But what you find online isn't always what's best for you.

Many of the top search results aren't actual local providers. They're lead generation companies—national firms that pay for ads and use SEO tricks to appear first in your search. When you call or submit a request, your information is sold to whichever contractor bought that lead. That means the person showing up at your home might not be the most qualified or reputable; they may just be the fastest to pay for your details.

The risks? Inflated prices, inconsistent workmanship, or in some cases, people posing as professionals. What seemed like the easiest solution can quickly become the most stressful.

So how do you find someone trustworthy? Referrals. Neighbors, friends, and family often know reliable plumbers, roofers, electricians, and handymen who've already proven themselves. A word-of-mouth recommendation is worth far more than an online listing.

And here's the resource many homeowners overlook: your real estate agent.

Real estate professionals interact with contractors, inspectors, appraisers, roofers, landscapers, and other service providers on a regular basis. We've seen them in action during urgent transactions where quality and deadlines mattered most. Over the years, we've built a list of go-to professionals...people we know, trust, and call again and again.

Whether you bought your home last year or ten years ago, your agent is still a valuable connection. We don't charge for these referrals, and we don't get a commission from the people we recommend. We simply want to help you protect and enjoy your home.

So the next time something breaks, skip the search bar. Give us a call. We're happy to share the names of service providers we have used and found to be both reputable and reliable.

Karen Degney CRS, CNE, SFR, CDPE Sierra Sothebys International Realty Reno-Truckee-Incline Village-Tahoe, NV (775) 233-5521 NV. BS.0017798 | CA 01280552 Karen has worked as a full time real estate professional since 1999, has owned and operated 3 real estate brokerages in the Lake Tahoe area, is a Certified Previews Luxury Agent, and holds a Brokers license in Nevada and California. Her extensive background in property management provides crucial knowledge and expertise while working with investors. She is a Certified Residential Specialist Member (CRS) and currently holds designations in Property Management, Short Sales and Foreclosure Resources (SFR), Relocation, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) and is Veterans Association of Real Estate Professional (VAREP). The CRS Designation is held by only 3% of all REALTORS® nationally and is the highest designation a residential REALTOR® can hold. Also, and very important is the designation of Certified Negotiation Expert held by only 1% of all REALTORS® Nationwide. With these designations, combined with 20+ years of full time Real Estate employment, Karen has an edge that benefits you. She has the knowledge of how to obtain a higher sales price and better terms for you as a Seller, and as a Buyer, she has the skills to negotiate for the best price and terms on your pur- chase. A Message From Karen: My motto is “Never, Never, Never Give Up!” After all these years in Real Estate, it is still my passion. I still get a thrill working with first time home buyers as well as working with my return clients and the many referrals which I am privileged to re- ceive. I love my job and have worked full time in real estate since 1999. I am a highly motivated REALTOR® with the goals of my clients as my highest priority. I continue to attend educational opportunities and expand my knowledge to keep ahead in my pro- fession and learn of new technology to best serve my clients. I hope to put my experience to work for you, “A Tradition of Trust, Your REALTOR® for Life” Contact Me Visit my Website Send a Referral Subscribe to Newsletter