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!
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