A Cape Cod Connection

Real estate is the family business for Lori Fanning Smith, daughter and granddaughter of industry professionals.

Smith, who with her business partner Chris Rhinesmith, purchased Pine Acres Realty from her mother in 2004, recalls: “The dinner table discussion always came back to deal-making.” She has long appreciated living and working in Chatham on Cape Cod, and pleased that others are discovering it too.

“Our coastal town is a haven and safe harbor for those looking for more room to be outside, and remote working situations have created an entirely new market for us. Second-home owners are becoming more primary owners and requiring different living arrangements. Both are fueling a tremendous market.” It’s an environment that places local agents at an advantage, and allows Smith to follow the best real estate advice she’s ever received: “Always be the expert who knows the expert. We have an extensive roster of the best contractors, lawyers and service people to help move a transaction along.”

Her advice to clients is that you can’t make a better location, but you can always improve a house in a good location. “I also believe some of the best transactions I’ve had are the ones I’ve advised against my clients purchasing. If it is being forced on them it never works and they remember,” she says. Smith admits her career is an occupational hazard. “I love renovating older houses and adding a new take on a historic home. Every four years or so I start looking for the new one!”