Meet Jose, a Real Estate Agent in Miami Florida

Jose is an enthusiastic and dependable real-estate broker in the southern region of Florida. His top priority is customer service, adeptly and skillfully guiding clients through the process of purchasing or selling a property. In his words: "My ultimate goal is the client's complete satisfaction. To accomplish that, I carefully listen to their needs and desires for their new property and tirelessly search the market to find their ideal home at the best price." Jose is committed to his clients and will give a high level of dedication and support until the transaction is completed.

He is currently working with the builders of Aria on the Bay, a 53-story building located in South Beach across from the breathtaking Biscayne Bay with unobstructed water views.

1. What do you enjoy about working as a realtor in Miami, Florida?

Working from the sunshine state, it's a true joy to wake up and seeing the sun shining, and the warmth of the weather brings families from across the globe. As a real-estate broker, you have the tools and resources to help clients achieve their goals. Whether you are purchasing your first home or an investment property, it's one of the biggest investments most Americans make in their lives. This is very fulfilling to see clients have a true sense of security, and trust in your ability to deliver results is key. Working with all the different cultures from Canada to Asia and South America is always an added bonus because you grow through diversity of cultures and beliefs.

2. When you think about the condos in the new Aria on the Bay building, what are some details that make these homes extra special?

There are various properties that are in the pre-construction phase in Miami, but Aria oy the Bay is a true gem that stands out from the rest, and the reason is its LOCATION. The condo sits in the downtown area of Miami that is off the main strip or Biscayne Blvd and is located on North Bay Shore Drive which is an parallel street to Biscayne. The property is within a 2-mile radius of 95 Interstate, so you don't have to cross the hustle and bustle traffic of downtown.

3. I noticed that Aria on the Bay has condos available in many different sizes, offering from 1000 to 6000 square feet of space--plus over 21,00 square feet of amenities. Are you seeing a lot of interest in this building so far?

The building has many different sizes to fit everyone's budget: the studio and the smaller units that are 815 sqft are selling in the mid 400's. If a client would like a more spacious unit and more bedrooms in the condo, the 3-4 bedrooms are priced from 1.5 Million to 2 Million depending on the floor and the view. The association fees are very reasonable, and they start at .75 cents a sqft There is a tremendous amount of interest in this building, and investors are pouring hundreds of thousands of dollars into escrow accounts in many different brokerage firms across the city.

4. What are some of your favorite things about the building in terms of its design and amenities?

All of the 21,000 finishing touches are going to be spectacular, with European touches throughout the property. The building will have high ceilings, Italian kitchens, a gym, a spa, a children's play room, a business conference center, tennis courts, a volleyball court, and an outdoor fire pit with seating for all of your family. The building also has its own beauty salon located inside the complex, so you don’t even have to hop in the car for a quick trim or blow dry for work or any special event. Aria oy the Bay is is the place to be and be seen here in South Florida.

5. Where in Miami is Aria on the Bay located, and why do you think this particular area is a desirable one, especially for buyers in search of luxury condo living?

Aria by the Bay over looks a beautiful park and the blue waters of Biscayne Bay: this is its true unique quality, and I say this because if you were to purchase a property over looking Central Park in NYC/Manhattan, you would be paying several thousand per sqft along with higher association fees, not to mention the frigid winters of New York. The city protects the park, so the property owners are guaranteed unobstructed views of the water. With the units' creators Melo Group in conjunction with world famous Arquitectonica International Corporation, led by Bernardo Fort-Brescia and Faia, the condo is going to be a huge hit when it's finished in 2018. The building has its own private elevators for its clients and home owners. Arquitectonica has been building master pieces since 1977 and has been exhibiting his work from across the globe.

Thanks, Jose!

Meet Mark Coppens, Sarasota Florida Realtor

Mark Coppens is a real estate agent based in Sarasota, Florida who specializes in helping people buy and sell coastal properties. He and Jamie Murdick are known as The SRQ Duo, and they offer all-inclusive residential real estate services to those interested in buying, leasing, or selling in the Sarasota area.

1. How did you first become interested in a career in real estate?

After college I spent some time in the U.S. Army as an Infantry Officer. Among others, the Army afforded me an opportunity to get an MBA, which introduced me to the world of marketing and advertising. I fell in love with negotiating deals and launching sales campaigns around the world. After serving my nation, I became very successful in closing transactions for several Fortune 500 companies at the executive level. During that time, I had bought and sold many personal properties, and for the most part, was extremely disappointed with real estate agents. Let's face it--most agents are lazy. It's true. There's a reason why real estate agents are respected less than lawyers and car salesmen, according to surveys. Generally, agents will do the minimal amount of effort in order to get a sale or close a deal. They say that 10% of licensed agents close 90% of all transactions. So I saw an opportunity. I'm an outgoing type "A" personality, with an education in marketing & advertising, and proven track record of negotiating successful high dollar / high stress contracts. If I could take my unique background, add the advantage of looks and charm, and put in 110% effort--I could really crush it. Plus, I love design and homes. I really do. I'm an HGTV addict.

2. You are half of your agent team, The SRQ Duo. Would you tell us about your other half?

My partner and fiancé Jamie Murdick is an Emmy® Award winning graduate of the Walter E. Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University. Jamie brings our team expertise on modern multimedia combined with years of experience in advertising, marketing, and sales. Like me, Jamie worked in corporate America and has led successful campaigns globally. She is a connoisseur of elegance, style, and sophistication--which lend to her success in luxury real estate, and complements my design skills. She distracts you with her stunning looks while expertly negotiating for her clients with cunning determination. When you choose The SRQ Duo as your agents, you will get the services of us both, each having strengths in differing yet complementary areas. Jamie and I are engaged to be married next April, in 2017, at the Ca D'Zan Mansion on the grounds of the Ringling Museum in Sarasota.

3. What are some of the qualities that draw people to the Sarasota area?

Sarasota (airport code SRQ) is one of the most desired year-round resort communities in the world. A perfect blend of world-renowned beaches, arts and entertainment, championship golf, award-winning dining, and beautiful weather; Sarasota Real Estate is comparable to destinations like Scottsdale, Palm Springs, and Miami all in one. Properties are in high demand, with the neighborhoods of Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, Downtown, West of Trail, and Bird Key among some of the most desirable in the nation.

Situated on the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota's beauty was noted by John Ringling, of the famed Ringling Circus. Mr. Ringling brought cultural influences and visitors from around the world, and in doing so, left his permanent mark on the composition of the city.  

With professional theatres, ballet, opera, and an orchestra, the city boasts more refined entertainment choices than most large-scale metropolitan areas. Boutique shopping downtown, in Saint Armand's Circle, and on Siesta Key provides unique finds for the most avid of consumers.

The area boasts some of the nation's best golf courses, with challenging options at a range of prices. If you're into other sports, SRQ is within an hour of professional soccer, hockey, football, and baseball--with two spring training facilities within a fifteen-minute drive. The marina and beach complexes provide ample watersports, fishing, and boating opportunities, with international yachting on par with our neighbors on the east coast of the state. The weather favors outdoor activities year-round. From running and biking the Legacy Trail, to crew at the world-class rowing complex at Benderson Park, Sarasota offers numerous choices for even the bravest of adventurers. We love Sarasota!

4. In keeping your agency team smaller and more tightly focused than many others, what unique benefits do you offer your clients?

Our brokerage, Merrick Damon Real Estate, is a top rated boutique real estate agency in the southeastern United States. Because we're agents with a regional boutique firm, we can focus on a select number of clients, offering personalized full-service that is responsive and focused. Quite simply, we out-hustle the large and slow nationwide firms and deliver superior results. Unlike bigger firms, you will not have to deal with field agents, assistants, transaction coordinators, closing agents or other parties in between. The SRQ Duo will be your sole point of contact throughout the entire process to help you buy or sell homes in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, Lakewood Ranch and West of Trail.

5. What else would you like our readers to know about your agency and the services you provide?

Jamie and I met in Abu Dhabi, and had our first dinner in London and our first date in Dubai. We literally travel the world in order to connect with buyers and investors of our clients' properties. From Hong Kong to Paris, and Ottawa to Rio De Janeiro, The SRQ Duo goes above and beyond to sell our listed properties.

We also represent buyers and annual renters. We will meet with you in person, or over the phone for long distance clients, and do an in-depth analysis of your wants and needs. Based on your detailed criteria, we will canvas multiple sources of listed and unlisted properties to narrow your search down to a manageable number of homes. These homes will be presented to you for consideration and potential showing. We understand that your time is very valuable, and will only show properties that you want to see. Once you have found the new home and lifestyle that you've dreamed of, we will begin the difficult task of negotiating the best price.  

Jamie and I take pride in our work and in getting our clients the best deal--as a buyer or seller. We are extremely responsive, pay great attention to details, and understand that buying or selling a home, particularly a luxury home, should be a low-stress, enjoyable occasion. We treat our clients with great respect & care, and pledge that our service will be the best real estate experience you've ever had.

If you're thinking of buying or selling a home or condo in the Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch areas on Florida, please contact Jamie & Mark "The SRQ Duo":

Jamie & Mark Coppens
The SRQ Duo | Merrick Damon Real Estate
Phone: (941) 444-0436
info@thesrqduo.com
http://www.thesrqduo.com

Thanks, Mark!

Introducing Gabe K, Langley BC Realtor

Gabe Kadoranian is a real estate professional based in Langley, BC in Canada. He also serves Surrey BC, Cloverdale, White Rock, Delta, and Abbotsford. I've seen a lot of websites for real estate businesses, and his is one of the best as it is informative, offers lots of excellent pictures to let you see what properties are available, and gives you opportunities to gather more information for free (such as a free valuation to see what your house is worth on the current market). Check out his site at http://gabek.ca/.

Another nice feature of his site is that he has detailed sections for buyers and for sellers, and it's easy to contact him for more information and/or to get answers to any questions you might have about buying or selling a home in Langley.

A lot of people are looking to live in Langely because it's a great, quiet place for families and is ideal for commuting to Vancouver. You can find a wide variety of houses and condos, including both existing homes and new construction. The area has a strong economy and lots of shopping and amenities; plus it's a beautiful places with hundreds of acres of parks.

Gabe K has been working in real estate since 2009 and spent many years in the corporate field before that. He left his corporate career for real estate because he wanted the opportunity to work more directly with people and to give outstanding customer services to his clients. "When I discovered a career in real estate," he said, "I never looked back."

He puts a lot of emphasis on communication and building relationships. He invites potential clients to contact him any time and is always glad to sit down for a coffee and a chat about his favorite subject, real estate--or more accurately, the real estate goals of his clients.

Meet Carolyn Young, Real Estate REMAX Realtor Loudoun Virginia

1. How did you first get into buying and selling houses?

I am a life-long resident of the Northern Virginia area, and I have always loved architecture and the idea of a home versus a house. Twenty years ago, Loudoun County was just starting to really grow, and I decided at the time that real estate was something that I would love to do--I was right! Within six months, I quit my full-time job and have never looked back!

2. What are some of the most often overlooked parts by home owners when selling their home?

Putting a home on the market is all in the details--it's very important, if a seller wants to get top dollar, to allow the buyer to feel comfortable about the home, and by that I mean that the home has been historically well-maintained, and not just staged for one day's showing. For example, caulking, air filters, water filters, ceiling stains, gutters--it all should be buttoned up. Trust me, buyers look at these things.

3. How has the housing market changed in Loudoun County over the past few years?

Loudoun County, like many markets, has been on a roller coaster over the last ten years--rapid rise, rapid fall, flat, and now steady growth. The last five years have been phenomenal in terms of growth--if you moved out-of-state during this time, and moved back, you would be hard pressed to even recognize some areas. There is growth everywhere.

4. What makes a house a good investment?

All things being equal: location. The changing tide will raise and lower all the boats equally; in real estate, however, a home in a good location will fall more slowly and recover more quickly than other homes. Overall, good location stabilizes a home's value over the long term.

5. For anyone reading this who wants to get into investing in properties and fixing them up to resell, what's your advice?

Be prepared to compete with others who have the same idea; know how much materials and labor cost, and choose your properties wisely. Be willing to walk away from the wrong house at the "right" price. And have a good agent on your side, preferably one who owns investment property.

To learn more about some of the properties we have listed with Carolyn Young Real Estate, please visit our Loudoun Virginia Homes for Sale website, and we'll be in touch right away.

Thanks, Carolyn!

Meet Charlie Bennett of Bennett Atherton Investments

Based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Charlie Bennett is the CEO and a founding partner of Bennett Atherton Investments, a firm that buys, restores, and sells houses. He's a licensed realtor and active real estate investor with a passion for rehabbing old homes. As a lifelong resident of Tonka Bay, MN, Charlie is an expert on the small, yet complicated markets that make up the Lake Minnetonka area. Learn more at http://www.ba-invests.com.

1. How did you first get into buying and selling houses?

I was a used car salesman. It wasn't a career I was too enthusiastic about which was a real problem in my life as my Dad and both grandparents were all car dealers. There was a local eyesore property, and I drove by it every day. I had no money and no experience, but I was certain we could bring it back to life. My mother is a designer, and I had seen her do some pretty neat projects. I didn't have enough money to buy anything on my own, so I found a business partner, Richard Atherton. We bought our first property for $85,000 and sold it "for sale by owner" for $240,000. The rest is history.

2. What are some of the most important things to change and update when you sell a house?

If you're on a budget, start with THE INSIDE!!! It's where you live. It's what you see the most. I would rather have a rockstar interior and an average exterior than vice versa! Wouldn't you? The art of living is living in art :)

3. How has the housing market changed in Minnetonka, Minnesota over the past few years?

I focus exclusively on Tonka Bay, Shorewood, and Excelsior. It's a very small area geographically. Many houses are turning over for the first time in well over a decade. A properly priced home is moving quickly, so offers need to be quick and near full asking price.

4. What makes a house a good investment for you--or in other words, how do you choose which properties to buy?

I'm looking for properties within Minnetonka School district. We buy and remodel everything as if we're moving in. We want good bones (layout) with a good lot. Cosmetics don't matter in the slightest bit as we're remodeling 100% anyway. Unfinished square footage is a bonus!

5. For anyone reading this who wants to get into investing in properties and fixing them up to resell, what's your advice?

My advice is to consult experts. I'm part of a multi-person team. I'm the real estate / investment side, my designer designs, and my builder builds. Trying to wear all the hats is not a good idea.

Thanks, Charlie!

Meet Todd Miller, Realtor and Creator of the Homing In App

Todd Miller is a Las Vegas real estate broker. In 2009, he and his wife were the #1 team in the nation for real estate sales in the US, according to the Wall Street Journal. He is the creator of an app called Homing In, which gives people expert-sourced values of their homes. To use the app, a homeowner takes a couple pictures of their house and submits the photos with any relevant notes about the property; then, up to five real estate agents can respond with their opinion on the value of the house. Learn more at HomingInApp.com/.

1. What gave you the idea to create Homing In?

I came up with the idea to create Homing In after years of doing a few thousand Broker Price Opinions for banks during the foreclosure boom. The banks would use this information to price their homes before listing them. Often, they would ask multiple agents to do them and pick which one did the best job to give the listing to. I decided this tool should also be something that consumers have access to. So I created the Exactimate, which gives any home owner the same power a bank has: getting accurate values quickly from actual professionals.

2. How does the app come up with the "exactimate" for the value of a home--and how many real estate agents are currently sharing their expertise through the app?

Right now there are about 200 agents nationwide signed up. We've completed value requests in Boston, Las Vegas, San Jose, and Durham NC. Up to five agents can respond. The Exactimate is just the mathematically most likely number, so if three agents all come up with $250,000 for a house, that's going to be the Exactimate. Since they don't see each other's values, they are truly doing their work independently without bias.

3. Why aren't the guesstimates on other sites more accurate?

Online valuation tools like the Zillow Zestimate use lots of data, but sometimes that data is misleading. If a person buys a fixer upper, and then puts $50,000 into repairs, they may have added as much as $100,000 in value to a property. Zillow doesn't know that because the computer can't see the inside of the house and get that information from the consumer. It just knows it sold for X. An agent makes a qualitative decision and can accurately value it. The computers can't.

4. Why did you decide to give the app away for free?

I felt this was something people need to have. Consumers should just have more access to information, and agents should be able to share their knowledge quickly and in a meaningful way. The agent may end up listing the house for sale if they do a good job, and the consumer might just find a really good agent in the process.

5. For people who are looking to sell, do you have any favorite tips for increasing the value of their home before putting it on the market?

The best thing people can do it talk to their agent before they sell. Agents tend to know which things add value and which don't. It depends on the house, the features, and the condition of the inside of the house. The key is to only upgrade things that add more value than the cost of the upgrade. With Homing In, they can get those recommendations through the app.

Thanks, Todd!