Donna Southerland in Chattanooga: A RE/MAX Agent Specializing in Residential Resales
Donna Southerland is a residential real estate agent with RE/MAX Experience, one of RE/MAX's franchise locations in Chattanooga, focusing on the resale market for homebuyers and sellers across Hamilton County and surrounding areas.
How agent compensation and buyer representation work
Real estate agents in Tennessee, including Southerland, are paid through commission split between the listing agent and the buyer's agent, typically totaling 5 to 6 percent of the final sale price (split varies by transaction and brokerage). A buyer working with Southerland pays nothing directly; the listing side covers both agents' commissions. The buyer's agent, however, represents the buyer's interests, meaning Southerland's incentive aligns with getting the best deal for her client, not the fastest sale. A listing agent represents the seller and works to maximize sale price and terms. The buyer's agent negotiates on price, contingencies, and inspection results. Understanding this distinction matters: a seller interviewing agents should expect to hear their comparative market analysis and marketing plan; a buyer should ask whether the agent will represent them exclusively or work for whichever side pays commission in dual-agency situations (Chattanooga and Hamilton County permit dual agency if both parties consent in writing).
Services Southerland offers
Southerland handles resale listings and buyer representation. On the listing side, this includes comparative market analysis (determining competitive price), marketing the property, scheduling showings, and managing the offer-review and closing process. For buyers, she locates properties, negotiates offers, helps interpret inspection reports and appraisals, and coordinates with lenders and title companies through closing. Pricing for Southerland's services is not itemized because compensation comes through commission, not hourly rates or flat fees. Buyer clients pay zero out of pocket; listing clients negotiate commission rate at the listing agreement, typically 5 to 6 percent total (split between listing and buyer agents). Some agents offer reduced rates for cash sales or high-value properties; specifics depend on individual negotiation with Southerland.
Comparing RE/MAX Experience to other Chattanooga residential brokerages
RE/MAX Experience operates as a franchise within the national RE/MAX network, which emphasizes agent independence and variable commission structures. Alternatives in Chattanooga include Crye-Leike (a regional brokerage with multiple offices in Tennessee and neighboring states, known for corporate relocation support) and local independent brokerages or smaller teams. Crye-Leike tends to attract corporate transfers and relocation clients because of its interstate presence; RE/MAX agents like Southerland may appeal to sellers wanting an independent agent with flexibility on marketing approach. Local independent firms often tout personalized service and lower overhead costs, though they lack the name recognition of a national brand. Southerland's choice to affiliate with RE/MAX signals access to the franchisor's training, technology platform, and brand advertising, with the independence to set her own business practices.
Who Southerland suits and who to approach differently
Southerland is a fit for sellers seeking a residential listing agent who works independently within a recognized national brand, and for buyers who want a dedicated buyer's representative in Hamilton County. She is less suitable as a first call for commercial or investment property (different expertise) or for sellers who need a full-service team handling everything from staging to photography to virtual tours (though these can be outsourced or negotiated). First-time homebuyers benefit from having a buyer's agent; sellers considering "For Sale by Owner" should understand that roughly 87 percent of for-sale-by-owner homes nationally sell below market value, largely because FSBO sellers lack access to the MLS and lack negotiating experience.
What a first appointment looks like
A seller's initial meeting with Southerland typically involves a listing consultation: the agent walks the property, discusses condition, amenities, and comparable sales, and presents a recommended list price. The seller discusses marketing preferences (open houses, photography, virtual tour), timeline, and any flexibility on price or terms. A written listing agreement is signed, setting the commission rate and term (usually 90 days). For a buyer, the first step is a consultation to discuss budget, financing status (pre-approval or cash), desired neighborhoods, and must-haves versus nice-to-haves. Southerland will verify the buyer is pre-approved or ready to close before searching, since Chattanooga inventory and competition mean sellers often demand proof of funds quickly.
Hours and contact logistics
RE/MAX Experience's main office in Chattanooga is located downtown, though specific hours and whether Southerland maintains a separate office should be confirmed directly. Most agents in Chattanooga operate appointment-based schedules; a first consultation is typically scheduled by phone or through the RE/MAX website. Parking varies by location; downtown Chattanooga has metered and municipal lots.
Southerland's role as a residential resale specialist reflects Chattanooga's active single-family market, particularly in neighborhoods like North Shore, East Lake, and Ooltewah, where her local familiarity and MLS access are assets for both sellers and buyers.
