ZillowVERIFIEDWe took a week this July (2016) and toured most of the upper 2/3 of northwestern Arkansas. We are looking to retire in the next couple years and wanted to get a head start of finding what was available and affordable. After having stopped at the State information center near the Missouri border we were directed to Cherokee Village [the person there, after hearing what we were looking for thought that this was our best prospect]. Having already visited with so many Realtors during our trip, we decided to first do a "drive-through." In the process we looked at many houses! Since the first one was a listing of Laura's, we called her when we spotted another that caught our interest. She was very patient with us and did not "push" her listings on us. She really seemed more concerned that we find a "best match" than for her to make a sale. We finally found a house that we really liked. By this time the hour was getting late and actually close to closing time. We explained that we were really interested in this property and had almost no contingencies. We also let her know that we wanted to complete our task as soon as possible so we would get on to our vacation destination. The cell tower was just going in and so our connections were poor; however, they were good enough for her to understand where we were and our needs. Within about 15 minutes she was there, ready to give us the "tour." She knew the property, even though it was not her listing, and the area. She also seemed honest in her "pros and cons." Finally, she was totally cooperative with the fact that because of the distance we were from the area, we would be "high maintenance" buyers! Almost everything had to be done via email/phone/express mail. None of this seemed to bother her and about 6 p.m. we were back at her office signing the papers. Over the next few days there was some negotiations; however, she did almost all of the work for us. Now, about two months' later, she continues to help us with everything from connecting with the utility companies and lawn care providers (as we are not there to do or know many things that require someone in the area who "knows the territory." Because of my professional experience, I know the importance of "service" when dealing with Realtors. Laura in the epitomy of what I consider to be an "ideal!" If one wants someone who will "go the extra mile," she is the best we found on our entire search. It was quite a change from those who would give us an address and let us find our own way or not know the listing enough to answer the necessary questions. Some may say it is "location, location, locations." For us, having someone give us true service "trumps" even location. We nominate Laura Sackett Clute for the "Realtor of the Year!'' Thank you Laura for all of your help.