Jeff Cook Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts by tag - Real Estate Agenthttps://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/Copyright JeffCookRealEstate.com2024-03-27T13:23:18-07:00tag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:18983Advantages of Selling with Jeff Cook Real Estate LPT Realty<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Advantages_of_Selling_with_Jeff_Cook_Real_Estate_LPT_Realty_.jpg" width="940" height="788" />
Is it time to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/">sell your Carolina home</a>? The new partnership between the Jeff Cook Real Estate team and LPT Realty provides more advantages to home sellers. List your home with us and sell faster and for more money than ever before! Here’s why!
Advanced Technology
Jeff Cook Real Estate LPT Realty uses its own proprietary software to identify the top areas where buyers wish to purchase homes. This accurate technology allows us to locate families who are already seeking a home like yours! Then, we invest heavily in marketing to these wannabe buyers to create an exceptionally high demand for your home. You get the most money from your home in the fastest time.
Stellar Marketing
Our marketing team knows how to present homes that look their best. We highlight all the significant features and amenities while helping you prepare your home for shows and marketing. Your home is listed for maximum exposure and showcased to impress buyers. Jeff Cook Real Estate LPT Realty now has even greater quality resources for marketing your Carolina home, including:
Listing software
Impressive print media
Digital media resources (web, social media, more)
Direct mail services
More!
Seller Programs
Effective real estate sales depend on creating solutions for individual buyers and sellers. Jeff Cook Real Estate LPT Realty has great programs to meet the needs of various home sellers.
Trade-In Program - Buy a home with us, and <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/trade-in-program/">we’ll buy yours</a>. Make confident offers, knowing you have the cash already in hand.
Guaranteed Sold Program - Qualified sellers <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/guaranteed-sold/">are guaranteed</a> that if Jeff Cook Real Estate LPT Realty doesn't sell your home for the agreed-upon price and time period, we will buy it from you!
Day-by-Day Listing Agreement - <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/day-by-day-listing-agreement/">NO long-term contracts!</a> Cancel your contract agreement before accepting a buyer's contract if you feel our service doesn't live up to our promise.
Buyers Actively Searching for Homes - Our huge database of <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/buyers-in-waiting/">qualified buyers</a> is ready to purchase a home like yours. Get a localized map showing you where they are!
Jeff Cook Offers - Don’t want to list your home for sale? <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/jeff-cook-offers/">We’ll buy it from you</a> on your timeline with no showings, listings, or hassles.
The Best Agents in the Business
Jeff Cook Real Estate is already well-known for its top-tier apprenticeship program for new agents, seasoned mentoring for growing agents, assistance with Real Estate School, and creation of a positive, exciting culture that facilitates success. Our new partnership with LPT Realty positions us to take this steller agent support to the <a href="https://www.realestate-redefined.com/">next several levels</a>.
What does our redefining real estate mean to area home sellers? Our agents are now better equipped with even more training, tools, and resources to help sell homes faster and for more money. They stay in the industry with us longer and can provide even more knowledge and experience to help buyers and sellers. Your agent’s growing success means they are even more dedicated to your success.
Sell Your Home in North and South Carolina!
Now is the best time to sell your home in North or South Carolina with Jeff Cook Real Estate LPT Realty. Come discover why we are the top-rated Realtor in the Carolinas and how our new partnership makes us an even better choice when selling your home!
<br /><br />2024-03-26T06:44:42-07:002024-03-27T13:23:18-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:18631Tips for Finding Your Dream Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Untitled_design-2.jpg" width="940" height="788" />
Embarking on the journey to find your dream home is an exciting and rewarding experience. As you navigate the real estate market, it's essential to arm yourself with the right knowledge and strategies to make informed decisions. In this guide, we'll explore key tips for finding your dream home, including the importance of working with an experienced real estate agent.
Define Your Priorities:
Begin your search by identifying your must-haves and deal-breakers. Consider factors such as location, size, layout, and amenities. By defining your priorities, you'll narrow down your options and focus on properties that align with your vision for your dream home.
Set a Realistic Budget:
Understanding your financial limits is crucial when searching for your dream home. Work with a mortgage professional to determine your budget, taking into account not only the purchase price but also closing costs, property taxes, and potential renovations. Having a clear budget will streamline your search and help you avoid disappointment.
Research Neighborhoods:
Explore different neighborhoods to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Consider factors like schools, amenities, safety, and proximity to work or family. Take the time to visit neighborhoods at different times of the day to get a sense of the community's vibe and overall atmosphere.
Stay Flexible:
While it's essential to have clear priorities, staying flexible can open up new possibilities. Be willing to compromise on certain aspects, and don't be discouraged if your dream home doesn't check every box. Remaining adaptable will increase your chances of finding a home that meets most of your criteria.
Work with an Experienced Real Estate Agent:
Partnering with a seasoned real estate agent is one of the most valuable tips for homebuyers. An experienced agent brings market knowledge, negotiation skills, and a network of resources to the table. They can help you navigate the complexities of the real estate process, provide insights into local market trends, and guide you through each step, from house hunting to closing.
Attend Open Houses:
Attending open houses is an excellent way to get a feel for different properties and neighborhoods. Take notes, ask questions, and envision yourself living in the space. Open houses provide a hands-on opportunity to assess the condition of homes and determine if they align with your preferences.
Research Property History:
Before making an offer, research the history of the property. Check for any past or present issues, such as renovations, repairs, or property disputes. Understanding the property's background can help you make an informed decision and avoid potential surprises down the road.
Finding your dream home is a journey that requires careful planning, research, and the right guidance. By defining your priorities, setting a realistic budget, exploring neighborhoods, staying flexible, attending open houses, and working with an experienced real estate agent, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the real estate market and discover the home that perfectly suits your needs and aspirations.2023-12-28T10:45:00-07:002024-02-02T13:59:00-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:17365Benefits of Participating in an Apprenticeship Program
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Benefits_of_Participating_in_an_Apprenticeship_Program.jpg" width="4104" height="2736" />
Apprenticeship programs have long been a great way to “test drive” a new career and get a jump start on what you need to learn and know to become successful. Apprenticeships have helped build America from its early beginnings to the present day. Among the <a href="https://www.apprenticeship.gov/about-us/our-history">early apprentices who went on to national distinction</a> were George Washington (surveyor), Benjamin Franklin (printer), and Paul Revere (Silversmith).
<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/why-now-is-still-a-good-time-to-be-in-real-estate/">Are you considering a career in real estate?</a> An apprenticeship is an opportunity to investigate the ins and outs of becoming a successful real estate agent and building an exciting career. Why should you consider a real estate apprenticeship?
Hands-On Experience
The most obvious and perhaps even the most beneficial benefit of an apprenticeship in real estate is the valuable practical experience you will gain by working alongside an experienced real estate professional. Nothing surpasses real-world exposure to real estate transactions, building relationships, common obstacles, and pathways to solutions that you can learn. A real estate apprenticeship allows you to learn the ins and outs of the industry firsthand.
Get Paid to Learn
The real estate industry offers limitless income potential as a commission-based career. You can begin earning while learning as an apprentice, as your efforts directly impact your earnings. Plus, shadowing and learning from a seasoned professional real estate agent can show you valuable tips for closing more sales and earning an even more lucrative income.
Open Career Doors
A real estate apprenticeship can be your pathway to a permanent career with a top-rated real estate brokerage and a launching pad to open your own real estate office eventually. Apprenticeships nurture talent and provide numerous growth opportunities. Exceptional performance during your apprenticeship can open doors to permanent positions with top organizations.
Educational Opportunities
Many real estate apprenticeship programs offer opportunities for continuing education and financial assistance. Some even provide reimbursement for the costs of real estate school and state licensing.
The Jeff Cook Real Estate Apprenticeship Program
Jeff Cook Real Estate offers an <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/apprenticeship-program/">Apprenticeship Program</a> for people interested in real estate who still need to take the leap to get started. The program allows candidates to "test-drive" the career by shadowing and learning from one of our top team leaders. No prior experience is required to get accepted.
Recent college graduates
Military professionals transitioning to civilian life
Reentering the workforce
Looking to change careers
Kick-start your real estate career with an invaluable mentorship with a seasoned and successful agent from the <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/culture-at-jeff-cook-real-estate/">top-rated real estate firm in South Carolina</a> — Jeff Cook Real Estate.
What does the JCRE Apprenticeship Program offer you?
Limitless income potential
Real-world experience
A pathway to permanent positions
A supportive and inclusive environment
Potential real estate school and license reimbursement
Visit the JCRE Apprenticeship Program page on our website and <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/apprenticeship-program/">apply today</a>!
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2023-07-06T10:53:00-07:002023-08-24T12:10:03-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:16102Jeff Cook Real Estate Highlights 2023 Top Agents of Quarter 1<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/AgentBlogHighlight_03_23.jpg" width="4671" height="2633" alt="From left to right: Heidi Schaefer, Brandon Garon, Whitney Hall, Clayton Hall, Nancy Walsh" />
Jeff Cook Real Estate is pleased to announce the outstanding achievements of its top agents in the first quarter of 2023. These agents have demonstrated exceptional performance, dedication, and expertise in the real estate industry, and have exceeded expectations in their sales and customer service efforts. With their exceptional skills and commitment to excellence, these agents have helped countless clients achieve their real estate goals and have contributed significantly to the success of Jeff Cook Real Estate. We are proud to recognize their hard work and dedication and look forward to seeing their continued success in the future.
The Hall Group: Top Team at Jeff Cook Real Estate
Clayton and Whitney, the dynamic duo of the Hall Group at Jeff Cook Real Estate, have not only excelled in their careers but have also created a beautiful life together. Clayton, originally from Vero Beach, FL, attended Florida State University, while Whitney, hailing from Columbia, SC, graduated from the College of Charleston. They joined Jeff Cook Real Estate in Mt Pleasant in 2017 and hit it off immediately. After being friends for a year, they started dating in 2018, got married in 2021, and are now the proud parents of a 6-month-old baby girl, Sawyer, and a 6-year-old dog, Hudson. As agents, Clayton and Whitney have helped over 175 families buy and sell real estate in the past 5 and a half years. They credit their success to the family-like environment at Jeff Cook Real Estate, where everyone is supportive and willing to help at a moment's notice. However, their biggest accomplishment so far is joining together as a husband and wife team and forming the Hall Group, where they have found a system that allows them to better serve their clients while balancing family time. Contact Whitney by calling 843-428-7578 or emailing <a>whitney.hall@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>. Contact Clayton by calling 843-396-3773 or by emailing <a>clayton.hall@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>.
Brandon Garon: Top Buyer Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate
Originally from Southern California, Brandon relocated to Lexington, South Carolina in 2015 with his wife Danielle and two young boys, Noah and Wyatt. Prior to his career in real estate, Brandon worked as an EMT for 10 years, gaining valuable experience in customer service and problem-solving. Since joining Jeff Cook Real Estate in 2018, Brandon has served over 75 families and closed over $20 million in volume, finishing 2022 as one of the top 10 agents in the entire company. Brandon credits his success to the family-like culture at Jeff Cook Real Estate, saying, "It is more than just a place to work, it is a family. We go through life together, supporting each other in the job and in life." His biggest accomplishment so far is persevering through the challenges of the industry and becoming a top-producing agent. Brandon's ultimate goal is to help guide others as they embark on their own journeys, and he does so through his YouTube channel where he shares the Midlands of South Carolina through the eyes of a transplant and real estate agent. As Brandon puts it, "I love this career and feel blessed to have been given the opportunity with Jeff Cook Real Estate, who helped get me started and continues to support me as I have grown into a top producing agent." Contact Brandon by calling 803-766-4663 or by emailing <a>brandon.garon@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>. Be sure to check out his Youtube channel here <a href="http://midlandsofsc.com/">http://midlandsofsc.com/</a>.
Nancy Walsh: Top Seller Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate
Nancy is a successful real estate agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate and has a deep love for family that has been a driving force in her career. Having helped over 170 families build new lives in homes they found together, Nancy's true joy comes from making these connections. She is a mother of four adult children and two stepchildren, as well as a proud grandmother of six grandchildren. Her supportive husband, Kevin, is also her real estate partner. With Jeff Cook Real Estate, Nancy discovered her true entrepreneurial spirit, having been given the tools and confidence she needed to be successful. Every transaction is special to her, and she considers it a huge accomplishment every time she helps match a family with a home. Nancy loves her job and is passionate about continuing to help families find their dream homes. Contact Nancy by calling 843-994-3715 or by emailing <a>nancy.walsh@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>.
Heidi Schaefer: Rising Star at Jeff Cook Real Estate
Heidi is a native Southern California girl who has lived in 11 states as well as Switzerland. After serving as a flight attendant for almost a decade, she decided to switch careers and became a real estate agent. Since joining Jeff Cook Real Estate in November of 2022, Heidi has already closed three deals in less than 120 days. She loves the supportive and family-oriented culture at Jeff Cook Real Estate and feels motivated to continue her success. Heidi is a mother of four grown children and a grandmother to four little ones ranging in age from 3 months to 7 years old. Despite working another job and taking care of her elderly mother, she has jumped in with both feet and is excited to keep the momentum going. Contact Heidi by calling 843-417-0495 or by emailing <a>heidi.schaefer@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>.
If you’re interested in buying a home or selling your current one, or give us a call at 855-HEY-JEFF or visit <a href="http://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/">www.JeffCookRealEstate.com</a>. To learn more about joining Jeff Cook Real Estate visit, <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/join-jcre/">JoinJCRE.com</a>.2023-03-30T09:30:00-07:002023-03-31T13:08:56-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:15741Culture at Jeff Cook Real EstateSpend any time talking with a team member at Jeff Cook Real Estate and you will hear about the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6FUVQOhF1U">unique culture</a>. From new agents to seasoned team leaders to Jeff Cook himself, everyone is pleased with and proud of the culture we represent. And culture isn’t something that happens at random — it is cultivated and nurtured by every single person on the team.
Let’s take a look at the culture at Jeff Cook Real Estate by reviewing some of the statements made by team members.
Culture is Doing Life Together
The Jeff Cook Real Estate team is a family doing life together. We believe in strong, transparent relationships with one another and with our clients. We enjoy being part of each other’s lives, supporting each other through challenges and celebrating every personal win. Work is frequently punctuated by team building activities and events, relationship building breaks around meals and fun, and personal interactions that forge tight bonds.
Doing life together includes a profound respect for healthy family relationships. Team members enjoy flexible scheduling to balance family and career, so they enjoy the best of both without sacrificing one for the other.
Culture is Giving Back to the Community
The team building and supportive culture at JCRE is not merely something found within. Our unique sense of culture is reflected in the many ways we <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/about/jeff-cook-cares/">give back to our community</a>. Individual team members, teams, and the entire JCRE organization frequently engage in efforts to better our community and make a positive impact on the lives of others. Some of these efforts include:
The JCRE 1% Initiative
School Supplies Drive
Blood Drives
Tornado Relief
Camp Happy Days
Buy a Home, Give a Home Program
Billboards Recycled into Backpacks for School Children
Culture is Supporting Other Team Members in Their Success
Unlike many sales-oriented businesses, there is absolutely no cutthroat competition to get ahead of the other guy at JCRE. We are one team, striving for excellence, and contributing to the success of everyone. Agents and teams cooperate on paperwork, problem-solving, open houses, learning, and celebrating every win, both large and small.
Our team members are supported in every way to build their own version of success. Some may wish to build a large income; others may desire a flexible career path; more may want a reliable career with many opportunities for advancement and growth. JCRE provides what every team member needs to build their own success, along with the freedom to enjoy that success.
Culture is Transcendent
Perhaps one of the most telling statements made by a team member is that culture is transcendent, affecting far more than we will ever know. Who can calculate the true impact of a backpack filled with school supplies given to a needy child? Who knows the life saved by a single pint of blood? How do you track the help given through funds provided for area charitable organizations? Many of those gifts continue having impact long after the initial moment of giving.
“Culture isn’t just one aspect of the game — It is the game.” Jeff Cook
<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/what-sets-us-apart/">What sets JCRE apart?</a> The above quote by Jeff Cook encapsulates how we view our company culture at JCRE. We believe company culture is a main pillar that supports success and growth within our company. The relational atmosphere at Jeff Cook Real Estate extends beyond a friendly ‘hello’ in the mornings; here, you’re treated like family.
<br />Are you looking to build a satisfying career with a great team? <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/why-now-is-still-a-good-time-to-be-in-real-estate/">There has never been a better time</a> to look into real estate career opportunities with Jeff Cook. Contact us today to learn more!
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s6FUVQOhF1U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>2023-02-23T08:56:00-07:002023-02-28T14:39:19-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:14759Jeff Cook Real Estate Highlights 2022 Top Agents of Quarter 3Jeff Cook Real Estate is the top rated real estate agency in South Carolina, and one of the top real estate brokerages in the nation. Jeff Cook and the entire team at JCRE wishes to recognize the Top Agents of 2022 Quarter 3.
Top Team: Weedo Group - 20 closed
Buyer Agent: Susan Chamlee - 14 Transactions with $6.39M
Selling Agent: Clayton Hall with 8 closed
Rising Star: Kathleen Cannavaro with 6 closed
Learn more about these top agents below:
Weedo Team
Amy Weedo has two years in Florida real estate and four years with the Jeff Cook Real Estate team. Her talented team encompasses every aspect of the word “team.” Individuals and resources are leveraged to provide the ultimate level of support for all her agents, and this results in premier customer service to clients and local businesses. <a href="mailto:Amy.Weedo@JeffCookRealEstate.com">Email Amy here</a> or call (843) 829-4548.
Susan Chamlee
Susan hails from Rockingham, NC, has been married for 21 years, and has two children. Her son is in the U.S. Air Force and her daughter is a senior in high school. Susan has served 120 families in her five years in real estate. She celebrates the culture at Jeff Cook Real Estate, where every agent’s success is celebrated and recognized. Her biggest accomplishment in real estate is helping clients reach what they thought were unattainable goals. <a href="mailto:Susan.Chamlee@JeffCookRealEstate.com">Email Susan here</a> or call (843) 960-3249.
Clayton Hall
Clayton is from Vero Beach, FL and is a graduate of Florida State University. He and his wife Whitney both are part of the Jeff Cook Real Estate team. They are the proud parents of a new baby girl. Clayton has been with JCRE since 2017 and earned the Realtor of Distinction Silver Circle Award in 2021 with $9 million in sales. He attributes his success to the extensive training and positive culture at JCRE. <a href="mailto:Clayton.Hall@JeffCookRealEstate.com">Email Clayton here</a> or call (843) 396-3773.
Kathleen Cannavaro
Kathleen is a graduate of the College of Charleston in SC and invested 10 years in educating middle school students. She has also owned and operated her own fitness franchise for 15 years before entering real estate with JCRE in 2021. She values the positive culture and the many opportunities for growth through JCRE. Kathleen’s most celebrated real estate experience is helping a 75-year-old, deaf, 1st time home buyer and his non-verbal, legally blind wife buy a house. Now that requires outstanding customer service! <a href="mailto:Kathleen.Cannavaro@JeffCookRealEstate.com">Email Kathleen here</a> or call (843) 483-5995.
<br />Are you interested in buying or selling real estate in the Carolinas? <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/">Contact Jeff Cook Real Estate today</a> for more information and let us help you explore the possibilities.2022-10-01T12:57:00-07:002022-10-18T13:18:45-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:14502Why Now is Still a Good Time to Be in Real Estate Interest rate hikes, market trends, political changes, and changing family dynamics are all part of the news every day. <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/is-real-estate-right-for-me/">Is now a good time to consider a career in real estate?</a> Should you wait until conditions change to favor buyers? Sellers? Have you waited too long to change careers? Are you too old? Too young? Too whatever (make up your own excuse here)?
The answer to the question “Is now a good time to consider a career in real estate?” is a resounding YES! — especially when you partner with the right brokerage. In South Carolina, that means Jeff Cook Real Estate. We earned the Best Real Estate Agents in Charleston 2022 Award from <a href="https://www.expertise.com/SC/charleston/real-estate-agents">Expertise.com</a> for being the best at what we do, and that means providing superior tools to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/join-jcre/">help our team members succeed</a>.
Supports JCRE Provides for Team Members
Jeff Cook Real Estate knows how to train winners. Our agents are consistently in the top-ranked levels for sales in South Carolina because we teach them how to serve clients with excellence. It begins with cultivating a culture of family that is then passed on to our clients. Everyone is treated with the utmost respect and courtesy, as if every team member and client were family.
And since we’re all family, we want nothing short of the very best for our team!
Training
From classes and seminars, to help with real estate school, to partnering you with a great team, Jeff Cook Real Estate believes in investing in superior level training for all our team members. Newbies and old hands all have opportunities to learn more, grow more, earn more, and experience more fulfillment in their career.
Mentorship
Enjoy a mentoring relationship with one of the top-earning real estate professionals in South Carolina as part of how Jeff Cook Real Estate prepares you for success. Learn from them, be challenged, inspired, taught, shown, pushed, and ultimately prepared to reach your highest level of success with an invaluable mentoring partnership.
Administrative Support
Members of the team at Jeff Cook Real Estate enjoy unparalleled administrative support, from qualified leads and training to professionally trained calling partners, accounting partners, marketing partners, and a host of other professionals in various related disciplines that provide counsel and services when required.
A Culture of Success
In essence, the atmosphere and culture of success that we maintain at Jeff Cook Real Estate is what makes our team the best at what they do. Regardless of interest rates or market conditions, people still want and need to buy and sell homes. A professional team backed with top-tier information and support that treats clients like family can still build a profitable career in real estate, and enjoy your own version of success.
What JCRE Team Members Say
The absolute best testimonies about working with Jeff Cook Real Estate come from within. What do our own team members have to say about working with us?
Jeff Cook Real Estate is consistently rated by our team members as a Top Workplace in South Carolina. This would not be true if we were not dedicated to every team member’s overall success.
For more first hand testimonies from our team members, visit the <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/join-jcre/">Jeff Cook Real Estate Careers page</a> on our website and scroll down to view several candid videos under the heading “A Day in the Life of a Real Estate Agent.”
Here’s a few snippets: <a href="https://youtu.be/6PhU1ardTZs"><br /></a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/6PhU1ardTZs">Kayla Richardson</a> says, “What I love most about working with Jeff Cook Real Estate is the culture.” She goes on to use words like “team” and “family.”
<a href="https://youtu.be/gSJ6hp5Vc4E">Whitney Muncey</a> cited the financial and time freedom to spend with her son as vitally important. She also values the opportunities to train other real estate agents that join JCRE.
After hearing from several of our successful team members, you’ll be inspired to join our team, too. Just complete the form at the bottom of the Careers page and let’s get started! 2022-09-16T12:39:00-07:002023-02-28T14:35:36-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:14050Buying A Home: Wants Vs NeedsFinding the right home can be difficult in today’s housing market. There are many more families looking to buy, so homes for sale are at a premium. This means you will likely pay more for the home you want and/or need, so it pays to plan ahead and be discerning about choosing and <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/buyers/">buying a home</a>.
Your dream home is out there somewhere — determining what it will be like and if you can afford everything you want in a home is of paramount importance. Balancing the “wants” and the “musts” can be tricky and painful. Follow these tips from Jeff Cook Real Estate to narrow down the choices and find the perfect home.
Establish Your Budget
Of course, the first step in buying a home is determining the amount of money you have to work with. Then you can decide how much you want to spend to purchase the home. You may also want to stay within a certain amount for purchase, while holding back some funds for repairs, upgrades or renovations. Several factors impact your budget for buying a home.
Down Payment
How much money you have earmarked for a down payment will impact your financing and how much you can borrow. Conventional loans can demand a down payment of at least 20% of the asking price. Of course, any money you can pay down means borrowing less, less finance charges and a better interest rate.
Proceeds from Sale of Current Home
Many families are transitioning from a current home to a newer one for a variety of reasons. <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/buying-and-selling-a-house-at-the-same-time/">Buying and selling a house at the same time</a> is possible, but it can be tricky. An experienced Realtor can help balance out the timing and details. The money you realize from the sale of your current home (after paying off any existing mortgage) can provide funds to help with the purchase of a new home.
Extra Money in New Mortgage for Renovations
You may want to consider “As-Is” listings to find homes at cheaper prices that may need a little work. You can possibly borrow the entire value amount, which would purchase the home and leave some extra money for renovations, repairs or adding those “wants” on your list.
Get a Handle on Priorities
After you’ve established your budget and how you plan to use any existing or projected funds, you need to figure out what you want in a home. Create a spreadsheet so you can combine lists of features, and categorize them appropriately. Here’s an example of the lists you should create:
Must-Haves – These are essential. If a house doesn’t have these features, it won’t work for your family. Some examples can be a location close to work, location within a desired school district, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, home office space, and a full basement or garage.
Nice-To-Haves – These features would be nice but you can live without them. Nice-To-Haves aren’t dealbreakers, but if you find a home that includes all or most of these, it’s definitely near the top of your list. Some examples may be a garage, storage building, home office space, entertainment room, fenced-in yard or decorative landscaping.
If-I-Could-Only-Haves – This is where you dream big. You don’t need these features, but they’re on your wish list. Any home in your budget that has all the must-haves, most of the nice-to-haves, and any of these, is a clear winner. Some examples could be walk-in closets, swimming pool, farmhouse style kitchen, new appliances, real hardwood floors, garden tub or a master bedroom suite.
Discuss Negotiables
Now, after making your lists above, discuss which items are negotiable and which ones are absolutely essential. This can mean some reshuffling of your lists.
What are you willing to bend on?
Is a bedroom worth giving up for a swimming pool or hot tub?
Is a longer commute worth the trouble to get the kids in better schools?
Is that perfect kitchen worth surrendering office space?
Is a garage preferred over decorative landscaping or a fenced-in yard?
A good plan always includes some flexibility and room for negotiation. You will rarely find a home with everything exactly as you would prefer, but getting as close as you can on your budget is the target.
Contract with the Right Realtor
You’ve probably heard the old adage about valuation in real estate depending on three factors: Location, Location and Location! A similar rule holds true about choosing the right Realtor: Connections, Connections and Connections! A well-connected real estate professional will have ready access to numerous properties from which you can choose, and will quickly be notified when new properties become available.
In a sellers market, prime properties are rare and will be snatched up quickly by hungry buyers. Contracting with the right Realtor can make the difference between finding the home of your dreams and missing the best opportunities. <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/contact/">Contact Jeff Cook Real Estate today</a> if you’re considering buying a home in South Carolina.
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2022-07-23T14:22:00-07:002022-10-18T05:50:31-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:137952022 Agent Highlight Quarter Two<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/AgentBlogHighlight_Q2_22.jpg" width="3262" height="1835" />Hard work deserves recognition! Our agents are always striving to go the extra mile and help more people every day so we are taking a moment to recognize the teams and agents that have gone above and beyond for this quarter. At Jeff Cook Real Estate, we make sure our clients come first and these agents have done a tremendous job ensuring their clients are educated, supported, and comfortable throughout the process. Congratulations to the top agents for quarter two of 2022!
Top Team at Jeff Cook Real Estate: The Smith-Stauder Team
The Smith-Stauder Team is led by Victoria & Lori Smith-Stauder. They have been in real estate since 2018 and have served over 100 families. The Smith-Stauders favorite parts of serving in real estate include the ability to help families and individuals to achieve their goals, educating their clients, and taking potentially stressful situations and making them easier. Joining them on their team are Amanda Susco, Joy Kump, and Craig McBlain. Victoria and Lori say, “We want our clients to receive superb service” throughout the process and want everyone involved to know “we are diligent with our work, helpful, and solution seeking”. With a strong background in education and coaching, this has carried over into their real estate careers through their passion to educate clients as well as coaching and mentoring the agents on their team. These team leaders prioritize building strong rapport with all parties involved from the clients to the lenders and attorneys, the Smith-Stauders say “we all have a common goal” and “we want the agents on our team to handle each person with care”. To get in touch with Victoria and Lori, you can call 843-865-2372 or email <a href="mailto:thesmithstauderteam@jeffcookrealestate.com">thesmithstauderteam@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>.
Rising Star at Jeff Cook Real Estate: Craig McBlain
Craig McBlain started with Jeff Cook in January, and he has already served 3 families. Craig’s favorite part about working with Jeff Cook is helping families secure a home that they have been searching for. “I find joy in helping families find their homes and making the transaction as smooth as possible for them.” Craig works on The Smith Stauder Team, and he would love to help you find your next dream home! Contact Craig at <a href="mailto:craig.mcblain@jeffcookrealestate.com">craig.mcblain@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call 843-474-6630.
Top Listing Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate: David Bateman
David Bateman has been with Jeff Cook since 2015, and he has personally served over 220 families. During his time at Jeff Cook, David has not only helped families buy, but he has also helped create smooth listing processes to better service all our Jeff Cook families. David is passionate about advocating for his families and easing the tensions and anxiety which come in the home-buying process. Contact David at <a href="mailto:david.bateman@jeffcookrealestate.com">david.bateman@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call 843-886-1724.
Top Buyer Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate: Brandon Garon
Brandon Garon has been working in real estate since 2018, and he has served over 50 families. Brandon has expertise in all areas of home buying, and he loves getting to meet each family’s unique needs. Brandon says, “I love the ability to help people achieve their goals of homeownership - whether it's their first house, or retirement house on the lake!” Follow Brandon on his YouTube channel to learn more, contact Brandon at <a href="mailto:brandon.garon@jeffcookrealestate.com">brandon.garon@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>, or call 803-766-4663.
<br />If you’re interested in buying a home or selling your current one, give us a call at 855-HEY-JEFF or visit <a href="http://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/">www.JeffCookRealEstate.com</a>2022-06-08T13:32:00-07:002023-03-30T12:18:23-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:12566Agent Highlight | Our Top Agents for Quarter 4<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/AgentBlogHighlight_DEC2021.png" width="1800" height="1015" />
Time to celebrate! Our agents are hard working and love what they do every day so we are taking a moment to recognize the teams and agents that have gone above and beyond. At Jeff Cook Real Estate, we make sure our clients come first and that each family we have the opportunity to serve feels comfortable and supported in their decisions. Congratulations to the top agents for the end of 2021!
The Ryan McHugh Team
Top Team at Jeff Cook Real Estate
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Ryan McHugh has been in the real estate industry for almost 4 years and his team has served over 90 families in the last few years. The Ryan Mchugh Team includes Janet McHugh and Tasha McHugh. Ryan views real estate as more than a career, “It’s a lifestyle. It’s my passion and I enjoy every aspect of it. Even the times when I need to be a critical thinker and help my clients through what may be a stressful situation. It’s rewarding to see families excited about moving into their new home and the kids getting to claim a bedroom. It brings me back to my favorite family memories.” Whether you’re relocating to South Carolina or simply moving across town, the Ryan McHugh Team offers a total solution for your family! The Ryan McHugh Team strives to ensure that your move is not only effective but affordable. Contact the Ryan McHugh Tea, at <a href="mailto:ryan.mchugh@jeffcookrealestate.com">ryan.mchugh@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call 843-226-5535.
Dena Espinoza
Rising Star at Jeff Cook Real Estate
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Dena Espinoza has been in real estate for less than a year and has already served over 8 families! Dena says her favorite part of being a real estate agent is helping families achieve their dreams of owning a home. A unique aspect of Dena’s interests includes helping families who are looking to relocate and sell their current home. Dena is our Rising Star because she believes in setting goals for herself to stay motivated. Dena says, “If you set your goals and go after them, in the end, you will be satisfied with a job well done and appreciative of your efforts all while overcoming any challenges along the way.” Contact Dena Espinoza at <a href="mailto:dena.espinoza@jeffcookrealestate.com">dena.espinoza@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call at 803-517-8857.
Cindy Nicholas
Top Listing Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate
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Cindy Nicholas started her career in real estate in 2017 and has helped a whopping 200 families! Cindy enjoys making a difference in the lives of the families she serves. She says, “The thing I like most about my career in real estate is putting people in a better situation than they were before, even those who didn’t believe it would be possible. One of my clients was a 68-year-old purchasing their very first home. It is such a special experience to me and there is truly nothing like it.” To contact Cindy Nicholas, email <a href="mailto:cindy.nicholas@jeffcookrealestate.com">cindy.nicholas@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call 843-847-1653.
Dalton Hunter
Top Buyer Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate
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Dalton Hunter has had a successful career in real estate for over 3 years in the Charleston area. Dalton has served over 80 families and enjoys that he is in charge of the direction of his business. Dalton says, “My clients are so appreciative and help make what I do feel more rewarding. I’m so glad to have clients that can see the value in the real estate process.” To contact Dalton Hunter, email <a href="mailto:dalton.hunter@jeffcookrealestate.com">dalton.hunter@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call 843-991-3379.
If you’re interested in buying a home or selling your current one, give us a call at 855-HEY-JEFF.2022-01-04T14:00:00-07:002022-01-04T14:24:32-07:00Megan Garrelltag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:12061South Carolina Real Estate School | 5 Benefits to Becoming a Real Estate AgentReal estate is one of the most challenging and rewarding careers available. Becoming a real estate agent offers many opportunities to create success for yourself and your family. This is especially true when you begin with high-quality training from an accredited, professional real estate school. <a href="https://southcarolinarealestateschool.com/">The South Carolina Real Estate School</a> offers live ZOOM training classes, as well as work-at-your-own-pace online classes.
Both prepare you with everything you’ll need to take and pass the state real estate licensing exam, plus extra resources to help you excel. Classes are versatile and cost-effective, and can put you on the fast track to becoming a real estate agent in the Palmetto State.
Not sure if real estate school is for you? Need more encouragement to take the plunge? Here are five incredible benefits to becoming a real estate agent.
Unlimited Income Potential
One of the best perks to becoming a real estate agent is the virtually unlimited income potential. Real estate agents work on commission, so there is really no limit to how much you can earn. The typical agent’s commission in South Carolina averages 2.5 – 3% of a property’s sale price – and sometimes goes higher.
This can mean a substantial commission. A 3% commission from a $1,000,000 property sale is $30,000. As a real estate agent, you decide how many clients you elect to help, so you are fully in charge of what you can earn each month or each year.
Flexible Schedule
Becoming a real estate agent means you can set your own schedule. Real estate agents can tailor their schedules to meet with clients when it is convenient; but this also means you can arrange your schedule around family or other obligations with greater ease. If you have a family and children, this flexibility can be a huge bonus.
Own Your Own Business
Becoming a real estate agent makes you one of the purest forms of entrepreneur. While you must work under a broker to legally sell real estate, you essentially operate your own business. This means you create your own schedule, operate by your own standards and values, decide which clients to serve, set your own hours and more.
Often, you will be partnered with a brokerage that can provide assistance with marketing and other forms of lead generation. But you can also develop and use your own resources in this regard.
Interact with All Kinds of People
Do you enjoy working with people? Without people, there is no real estate business! If you enjoy meeting and interacting with literally all kinds of people, becoming a real estate agent is a dream career. Many kinds of people are involved in real estate, from young first-time home buyers, to those seeking a retirement home or vacation home, to those who routinely buy and sell real estate as an investment.
Help Make Dreams Come True
Few careers offer the opportunity to truly change people’s lives – becoming a real estate agent positions you in that unique category. You get to facilitate the process that helps people achieve their dreams. Whether that is buying their first home, buying a rental property or vacation home or some other investment, you are the person in the mix that can bring it all together.
You will experience the excitement and gratitude shared when people achieve an important goal in their lives. Sometimes their demonstrations of gratitude will be generous or even embarrassing – and maybe even loud! These are priceless moments that you will remember for many years to come.
If you think becoming a real estate agent in South Carolina could be the dream opportunity you have been seeking, contact the <a href="https://southcarolinarealestateschool.com/">South Carolina Real Estate School</a>. They offer specials for combining training sessions and can help you prepare for a career of unparalleled success. 2021-11-18T19:02:00-07:002022-01-05T18:17:04-07:00Jeff Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:11876Agent Highlight | Our Top Agents for Quarter 3<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/AgentBlogHighlight_-_Oct2021.jpg" width="9337" height="5264" />
Time to celebrate! Our agents are hard working and love what they do every day so we are taking a moment to recognize the teams and agents that have gone above and beyond. At Jeff Cook Real Estate, we make sure our clients come first and that each family we have the opportunity to serve feels comfortable and supported in their decisions. Congratulations to the top agents for Quarter 3!
Jason Husted Team
Top Team at Jeff Cook Real Estate
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Jason Husted began flipping homes in 2014 and as his interest in the real estate industry grew, Jason received his license in New York and later in South Carolina. Since becoming a real estate agent, Jason Husted has been able to serve over 104 families with selling and buying homes. With Jeff Cook Real Estate, Jason has built his own team of agents, assistants, and content creators. Jason says his favorite part of being a real estate agent is the endless opportunities within the industry.
Congratulations to the Jason Husted Team!
Cherith Guest - Agent
Kyu Myoung - Agent
Austin Poirier - Agent
Robert Poirier - Licensed assistant & Content creator
Mackenzie Huff - Team Assistant
Blaine Vinson II - Content Creator
Contact the Jason Husted Team at <a href="mailto:jason.husted@jeffcookrealestate.com">jason.husted@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call 843-925-7600.
Kevin Johnson
Rising Star at Jeff Cook Real Estate
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Kevin Johnson reviewed his real estate license in April and has been working with Jeff Cook Real Estate ever since. Although Kevin is just getting his start in the industry, he has already served over 22 families, including 10 closed deals and 12 current pending deals! Kevin says, “My favorite part about working in real estate is establishing meaningful connections with the families I serve and exceeding their expectations with the service they receive. My goal is to create a positive real estate experience with my clients to change their perception of the industry and show them that there are agents who truly care about their needs every step of the transaction.” Kevin is certified to represent both buyers and sellers, and he also has experience with investors purchasing rental properties and multi-family residences. Contact Kevin Johnson at <a href="mailto:kevin.johnson@jeffcookrealestate.com">kevin.johnson@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or give him a call at 803-447-9836.
Clayton Hall
Top Listing Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate
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Clayton Hall has been a real estate agent with Jeff Cook Real Estate for over 4 years and has served over 50 families! Clayton and his fiance Whitney work together to serve families in Charleston and surrounding areas. Clayton says, “I genuinely work hard no matter what. I love that I basically get a new job every time someone chooses me to be their agent. It’s a humbling experience to help someone through a huge life decision such as selling their home and I enjoy working hard to prove myself to my clients.” Contact Clayton Hall at <a href="mailto:clayton.hall@jeffcookrealestate.com">clayton.hall@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or give him a call at 843-494-7939.
Nancy Walsh
Top Buyer Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate
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Nancy Walsh has been a real estate agent for almost 5 years and has served over 160 families! Nancy is endorsed by Jeff Cook himself and has been certified as a Ramsey Trusted Endorsed Local Provider. Nancy specializes in assisting your family buy or sell their home through any season of life! Nancy loves serving her clients; she says, “Helping my clients buy their new home is my absolute favorite thing to do. Seeing the look on their faces when they walk into their new home for the first time is magical. The feeling of helping a client win their new home in this competitive market makes all the hard work worthwhile.” Contact Nancy Walsh at <a href="mailto:nancy.walsh@jeffcookrealestate.com">nancy.walsh@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or give her a call at 843-718-4285.
To learn more about how to prep your home for the market, <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/these-landscaping-tips-can-increase-your-home-value/" target="_blank">click here </a>to read about unique landscaping ideas. When you're ready to sell your home, call 855-HEY-JEFF! 2021-10-13T13:00:00-07:002021-10-14T13:22:27-07:00Megan Garrelltag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:10064How Company Culture Can Impact Your Success<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/women_working_on_laptop.jpg" width="1200" height="800" />
All great companies have a common driving force: culture. Do you want to be a part of a big-box franchise or a small boutique brokerage? Do you want to be 100% independent, or do you want lead-generation and leadership opportunities? Choosing a brokerage with a culture that suits you can have a tremendous impact on your career.
At Jeff Cook Real Estate, we believe that company culture is the main pillar that supports success and growth <a href="https://topworkplaces.com/company/jeff-cook-real-estate/southcarolina/" title="Jeff Cook Real Estate Overview" target="_blank">within our company</a>. Take a look below at a few ways culture in your brokerage can impact <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/tips-for-succeeding-as-a-real-estate-agent/" title="Tips For Succeeding as a Real Estate Agent" target="_blank">your real estate career</a>.
Your Performance:
When everyone in your office is working towards a common goal, you’ll feel compelled to put forth the extra effort to achieve that goal which then propels your business forward into success. Seeking out a brokerage with team spirit and camaraderie where goals are clearly communicated and agent performance is rewarded can certainly impact your performance and results!
Your Happiness:
Surrounding yourself in an office environment with generally happy people can subconsciously raise your happiness professionally and personally. Now, everyone may not stand around holding hands and singing ‘kumbaya,’ but knowing you have an office full of support with leadership that invests in your success brings a sense of relief while taking off unnoticed stress you may not even be aware of.
Your Engagement:
When deciding to join a new brokerage, it's important to align yourself with a brokerage that supports you in the way you want to be supported - whether your interests are leadership, training, 100% commission, or just to be left alone to work on your own.
Your Growth:
Leads are always a top need for real estate agents to cultivate growth - it’s what your business thrives off of. With a smaller boutique-style brokerage, you may need to find your own leads that have allowances for you to be creative and find what works for you. With a bigger brokerage, like Jeff Cook Real Estate, leads are provided to you so you can focus on customer service and closing more deals, in turn making more money.
One of the great things about real estate is that this is your business, and you get to determine how you want to run it. Selecting a new brokerage is a big task, as it will surely impact your real estate career. At Jeff Cook Real Estate, our agents and employees display mutual respect for themselves and one another which gives us the ability to launch our impact further than the competition. We seek solutions to the competitive issues within the real estate industry and strive towards innovation and efficiency.
If your values and business needs align with our culture, visit <a href="http://www.joinjcre.com">www.JoinJCRE.com</a> or call us to schedule a confidential interview at 855-Hey-Jeff today!2021-02-17T14:56:00-07:002022-09-27T05:10:56-07:00Megan Garrelltag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:9884Should I Use a Realtor When Buying New Construction?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/unfinished_housing_frame.jpg" width="1200" height="800" alt="Unfinished House Frame" />
Buying new construction can sometimes be a daunting task. If you're <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/5-tips-for-first-time-home-buyers/" title="5 Tips for First Time Home Buyers" target="_blank">new in the real estate market</a>, you might not get it right due to the many processes involved. However, some people are still stuck on whether to look for a home by themselves or get the help of a realtor. The best way to go about this is by using a real estate agent who'll guide you throughout <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/process-of-buying-a-home/" title="Process of buying a home" target="_blank">the process</a>. Real estate agents have lots of experience in the industry and understand the market trends. Below are some top reasons why you should consider using a realtor when buying new construction:
Help You in Price Negotiation
Realtors have the necessary skills for negotiating prices of new constructions on the behalf of the buyer. Since most new constructions are quite expensive, you can save some money by giving a realtor the duty to negotiate on your behalf. Most builders usually give a base price for new constructions. However, if you need some customizations on the property, your realtor can help you in negotiation. In this case, you'll get a price cut from the initial price and you'll end up getting the necessary upgrades.
Knowledge of Market Trends and Patterns
A realtor always knows the best time you can buy a new home. Due to the wide connections that realtors have in certain areas, they're able to tell when there are likely to be great deals. Just like any other market, the real estate market has its demand and supply patterns. When the demand is higher than supply, you're likely to spend a lot of money purchasing a new construction because the prices will be higher and vice versa. Therefore, if you keep in touch with a realtor, you'll be updated on the best time to purchase a new property.
Property Inspections
Some people don't understand the importance of a new <a href="https://www.accuviewhomeinspections.com/2021/02/09/home-inspection-when-buying-a-house/" title="Home Inspection When Buying a House" target="_blank">home inspection</a> until they move into the property and find out that toilets, sinks, septic, and other fixtures aren't working properly. A home inspection is an essential aspect of the buying process. A realtor will help you to inspect a property before buying. Realtors have a better understanding of house parts where you're likely to find some underlying problems. The major issues, in this case, are usually associated with plumbing.
Finding the Best Builders
An experienced realtor understands the local market better. Therefore, if you want to get the <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/8-questions-you-must-ask-before-hiring-a-home-builder/" title="8 Questions You Must Ask Before Hiring a Home Builder" target="_blank">best builder with quality workmanship</a> and a good track record, you won't have to move up and down looking for references from your friends or colleagues. With the help of a realtor, your work will be just coming up with a home buying checklist stating the general layout that you want depending on your taste and preference.
In conclusion, these are some of the top reasons why it's essential to use a realtor when buying a new home. However, the truth is that you're likely to even spend more if you don't get professional help.2021-02-15T06:00:00-07:002021-02-16T07:57:59-07:00Megan Garrelltag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:98337 Ways To Build Your Expertise in Today's Data-Driven Real Estate Market <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/real_estate_agent_on_laptop_.jpg" width="797" height="529" />
The real estate world is nothing short of competitive, where any agent usually falls under one of two categories: highly successful or a struggling mess. Many will call it quits in just a few short years because of two fundamental reasons: lack of educating themselves on the real value they can provide to clients and not articulating this value to exhibit their real worth.
To stay ahead of the game and push forward into your own success, here are 7 Ways to Build Your Expertise in Today’s Data-Driven Real Estate Market:
Invest in quality lead generators. There is no shortage of lead generating programs available to you, but essentially it all costs money. How much money you want or are able to spend on lead generators will impact the quality of your lead pool you accumulate. If you’re looking to purchase leads for the first time, I suggest researching Zillow, Realtor.com, Facebook, and Google.
Utilize, invest in, and stay up-to-date with technology. Expand your knowledge on how to utilize technology to grow and support your business. For starters, make sure you have a usable smartphone, laptop, and real estate specific CRM. Among the obvious reasons as to why you should have a smartphone, it allows you to utilize readily-available apps (such as your local MLS and personal CRM) should a client make a request on the spot. Broaden your knowledge and capabilities on your dependable laptop by getting comfortable using digital signature software, the business side of social media (Facebook and sponsored ads), and easy-to-create graphics you can share to stay front of mind with your customer base. A user-friendly and real estate-specific CRM can also take your client-base to new heights! CRMs with add-ons such as website templates, email campaigns, and the ability to integrate with your social media accounts tend to work better for real estate agents. For the more tech-savvy entrepreneurs: discover what technological software is available to you that would make your daily real estate world a bit easier. It may be something as simple as a documentation platform that retains all of your client paperwork, all the way up to videography and marketing yourself on a professional Youtube channel. The world of today is all about technology, and the majority of your future clients are too. Use this to your advantage to stay front of mind with them and to equip yourself with the tools and resources you need to succeed.
Invest in intentional follow-up and drip campaigns for current and past clients. I previously mentioned why you need a real estate specific CRM, and intentionally follow up for your clients is one of the biggest reasons why. The goal of email drip campaigns is to steadily and consistently help the potential client make knowledgeable decisions in their real estate journey or to recapture a past client, through a series of automated emails. Most agents have the mindset that following up is one of the easiest tasks in their daily agenda. Starting out, that may be true, but as you get busier with more and more deals and clients, it slowly moves to the bottom of your task list and is eventually forgotten about. If you’re not conversing with your clients on a regular basis and giving valuable information to them by being intentional with the materials you provide them, you will fall to the wayside in their minds as just another agent. To effectively create a valuable drip campaign follow these easy steps: 1. Make time to create each email. 2. Confirm the best way to contact them. Some prefer to converse via email, while some prefer texting and phone conversations. 3. Perfect your opening statement and be sure it grabs their attention to entice them to keep reading. 4. Provide value in each email. Explain what your purpose for contacting them is. 5. Research and use data to back up what you are presenting to them. 6. Add a call-to-action so they can make the necessary next step.
Understand data analysis. By knowing how to read market drivers and indicators, you can guide your clients into making smarter real estate decisions. Real estate data can help you determine how profitable a location will be in terms of occupancy rates, average rental income for the area, local school ratings, and life quality among other notable items. Make sure you are able to read and understand various data reports so you can give knowledgeable advice to clients and you are able to pull this data to support your statements and findings. Your client wants to be able to trust you but proving your trustworthiness and knowledge early on can create a more amicable relationship as you work through the transaction with them.
Be a one-stop-shop for your clients. Become a hub with a professional network that allows you to move a deal forward from start to finish in a five-star fashion. Networking is a big piece of the puzzle in the sales world. Build rapport with various companies that you can call on during your transactions like a mortgage lender, home inspector, general contractor, stager, termite inspector, packing and moving company, just to name a few. It is also beneficial to have a good contact that you can direct your client to, should they need that type of assistance beyond your scope of expertise. It is not necessary for you to know everything, but to instead be the source of the source and know how to utilize the contacts you have in your pocket to the best of their abilities.
Be the local expert. Enjoy the fun side of real estate! Get out and explore your area and discover the hidden gems of the community. Join community social media groups to stay in-the-know about what is happening from a homeowner perspective. Create neighborhood tour videos and share them on your social media. Also, attending local events and festivals is a two-for-one: you can gain knowledge and experience while networking yourself to get your brand out there. While you’re enjoying yourself out in the real world, be sure to stay on top of your current local market. Be ready when you’re asked these questions: What types of listing have sold most frequently? What type of properties most frequently come on the market? What neighborhoods and developments are hot right now? What’s the average price point for a new home in this city? Knowledge is power, and the more real estate knowledge you have, the more successful you can be!
Bring humanity to the transaction. Be an amazing communicator. Create an easy avenue for conversation for yourself and your lead pool. Build a relationship with your clients beyond just a transaction. People crave human connection and a trusted advisor now more than ever before. If you’re connecting with a potential client, show you care, don’t push for the sale, and keep in touch with them. Reach out to your current and past clients for a genuine check-in, and connect with them outside of ‘the sale’. Ask them how they’re doing, listen to their fears and expectations, and take notes so when you check-in with them again you’ll be able to continue to build on the rapport. If the conversation progresses to real estate, great! If not, continue your methodical check-ins, as they will see you more as a person of knowledge and the ability to help them rather than an agent looking to make a quick sale. Lastly, always follow up and follow through.
If you don’t know where to start, I’ve got one more tip: Join Jeff Cook Real Estate
We are the #1 team in the Carolinas, and the local real estate expert in our communities. We can teach you how to do all of these things successfully!2021-01-25T10:03:00-07:002022-07-05T14:24:32-07:00Hunter Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:965210 Reasons Why You Should Get Into Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Become_A_Real_Estate_Agent.png" width="1200" height="800" alt="Become A Real Estate Agent" />
As we approach the end of 2020, we can all safely agree that it has been a challenging year - but with those challenges also come opportunities. For many of us, we can see this as a window of perspective and changes in priority, particularly in business and sales.
If you're looking for a fresh new start, here are the top 10 reasons why you should get into the real estate industry. Oh, and don't worry about experience, you'll see it's much easier than it looks.
1. You Can Be Your Own Boss.
As a real estate agent, you will finally have a say regarding your schedule and working hours. Your professional success is all up to you, and you can reallocate your time to take care of those things that matter to you the most. In South Carolina, you should consider <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/join-jcre/">joining the Jeff Cook Real Estate team</a> since they're always hiring and looking to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/feeling-stuck-ready-to-make-your-move-in-2020-you-asked-we-listened-new-structure-for-agents/">expand their pool</a><a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/feeling-stuck-ready-to-make-your-move-in-2020-you-asked-we-listened-new-structure-for-agents/">.</a>
2. Flexible Dress Code.
Since there's no strict dress code in the industry, you can find your combination of business professional and business casual. There's no need for uniforms that won't reflect your unique personality. As a real estate agent, you can dictate how you want to impress your customers.
3. You Finally Get A Say On Your Income.
Many realtors will agree that this is one of the few professions that allows you to decide your yearly income. Since there are no salaries involved and all your earnings are based on sales, you decide how little or how much you want to make.
4. You Never Stop Learning.
The housing market is an organic entity, constantly evolving alongside the larger market. You will learn new technologies, techniques, sales speeches, and even life skills to become a better professional.
5. No College Degree Required.
The job market is getting more competitive by the minute, and people are always on the lookout for fatter and more stunning resumes. Luckily, not all professions demand having academic success, and in real estate, you can still thrive, even without a diploma.
6. Possibility To Work From Home.
Alongside the lines of being your own boss, you can take care of many aspects of the job while still at home with your family. Make phone calls, set video conferences, send emails, and schedule house visits, all from the comfort of your home.
7. Meeting New People, All The Time.
For people with a knack for sales and interpersonal relationships, becoming a realtor is a shoo-in. You will meet new people daily, and by listening to their stories and backgrounds, you will learn valuable life lessons that will help you with future negotiations.
8. You Get To See Incredible Homes.
Depending on the exact niche you would like to work on, you might have the chance to visit some of the most <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/most-luxurious-homes-in-charleston-sc/">luxurious and awe-inspiring residences</a> in the country - just the sight of them will get ignite your passion and drive for success.
9. You Can Indulge Your Creativity.
Being a real estate agent means knowing just what your client needs and being able to offer them a practical and tangible solution, all within their budget and terms of negotiation. There are no rules carved in stone, meaning you can be as <a href="https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/real-estate/five-creative-tactics-to-sell-your-home">flexible and creative </a>as the transaction needs you to be.
10. You Get The Satisfaction Of Helping Others.
Psychologically speaking, we all get a little oxytocin and dopamine boost whenever we're kind and helpful toward others - these hormones are responsible for building trust and social bonds. By helping people fulfill their lifelong dreams of owning their own homes, you'll obtain a sense of purpose that few professions out there can give you.
2020-12-28T14:30:00-07:002020-12-28T14:37:00-07:00Matt Serratotag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6013Real Live Realtor or Real Estate AppOur modern society loves all the conveniences that the world wide web and phone apps have to offer. With an app and a few touches of a button, we can have food delivered from our favorite restaurants, rides show up at our door to take us places, tickets to our favorite movies or concerts, coupons to our favorite stores, and even a dog-walker arrive on our doorstep. Modern technology indeed is a wonder and a splendid gift to humankind. So how about when it comes to real estate? Are the apps and websites taking the place of real live realtors? Let’s take a look at why we still prefer the human touch here!
Realtors have nearly instantaneous knowledge about listings. The <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/nar-doj-settlement/multiple-listing-service-mls-what-is-it">MLS website</a> is “THE” source of all listings. Online sites do have access to the MLS listings, but only as they are updated by third parties. Your local realtor, on the other hand, can find out instantly if the listing has any types of changes in status, such as pending, contingent, just-reduced or closed. With your local realtor, you won’t waste time inquiring about a property that could be unavailable. In many cases, a realtor knows of properties that are available but not yet actively advertised and can help you to become first in line for the home of your dreams. Your agent will even be actively working for you behind the scenes without you having to do any searches or inquiries on your own!
<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/the-questions-you-should-be-asking-a-realtor/">Realtors have a thorough working knowledge</a> of your local market. As a buyer, you may have your heart set on a particular neighborhood and then realize there is nothing in your price range. Your realtor knows which other neighborhoods in your area are comparable to what you are looking for and which may have a much better selection and pricing. Local realtors stay on top of what neighborhoods are currently trending and where new development is taking place. These hard-working humans can help you get the most for your money because they work all over our communities every day.
Agents can better inform clients and protect their interests, saving them money and potential heartbreak. Your real estate agent knows the properties that are for sale locally. They can protect the client by advising them if a home may need more work than first-time buyers or older buyers can afford or manage. The agent can instruct the buyer how to prepare a smart offer on a home that will keep the buyer in the running for the house but still have money for changes or repairs that will need to be made. Agents can even point out potential pitfalls with the financing or what to expect when you need to<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/how-to-improve-your-credit-score/"> improve your credit score</a>. Because your agent works the business every day they know the potential hazards and can save you time and trouble that you wouldn’t expect when acting alone on a website.
Real live realtors have the expertise that the average consumer does not. Every business has its specific lingo and forms. Using a realtor can help you avoid confusion with the language, mistakes on the forms, delays in the overall process, and will actively advocate for you when you don’t even realize there is a need for an intervention! They are highly trained individuals with your best interest at heart!
Realtors know everyone. Real estate agents are some of the best networkers in our society. We would do well to take lessons from them and be bold enough to reach out and make connections. Your real live agent knows brokers, attorneys, home inspectors, home stagers, interior designers, painters, roofers, window installers, landscapers, moving companies, and anyone else you may need as you buy or sell a home. You, as the buyer, will have their phone numbers and nearly 24-hour access to their wealth of knowledge. No website in the world can replace that kind of experience.
Realtors care about you! The personal touch of working with a human in person is a tremendous asset in the real estate adventure. Buying and selling a home can be very emotional and overwhelming. A great realtor will guide you, encourage you, reassure you during your search, and celebrate with you when you find the home of your dreams. Their job is to serve you, and when a great agent does this, you have a caring friend on your side. No website can offer the care and friendship that a personal agent can!
<br />In conclusion, I firmly believe that websites and apps can be handy tools and have their time and place in the business of real estate. They can be a great jumping-off point for exploring what is available and provide you an idea of what you can get in your price range. When considering all the benefits of using a real estate agent “live and in person,” however, I think you will agree that the human touch is the best choice! Contact an agent and let them know how they can begin helping you!
2018-05-31T07:36:00-07:002021-01-25T12:21:28-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:5987Who is Jeff Cook?
Who is Jeff Cook? The man who, after being <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/how-do-you-get-laid-off-for-making-too-many-sales/">laid off from Corporate America</a> for making too many sales, set out to create a company with such a family-oriented culture that celebrates success and hard work. Starting from just one person in 2003, <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.facebook.com/jeffcookrealestate" href="http://www.facebook.com/jeffcookrealestate" rel="nofollow">Jeff Cook Real Estate</a> is now located in 3 regions of SC, has 7 offices, 100 sales agents and 30 administrative staff members.
Along with creating a supportive and culture-driven company, Jeff Cook took to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/what-is-the-jeff-cook-experience/">redefining how real estate is bought and sold</a>. He created a marketing plan unlike any other that has proven time and time again that it really does work. The Jeff Cook Real Estate Way can close a home 30 days faster and can get you $3,000 back in your pocket.
2017 has been a great year of growth and success for Jeff Cook Real Estate. After breaking a personal record of servicing over 750 families in Charleston in 2016, we will have helped over 1,000 families buy and sell homes in 2017. We were ranked the #27th team in the nation by Real Trends, and have remained #1 in South Carolina. With the ranking of #1 in the state, Jeff has taken action to truly serve all of South Carolina, starting with new offices in <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.facebook.com/jeffcookrealestatecolumbia" href="http://www.facebook.com/jeffcookrealestatecolumbia" rel="nofollow">Columbia</a> and <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.facebook.com/jeffcookrealestategreenville" href="http://www.facebook.com/jeffcookrealestategreenville" rel="nofollow">Greenville</a>. Plus, we gave back over $89,000 to the community thanks to our One Percent for Good program which puts 1% off the top of every commission check into a special savings account for sponsorships and charities.
Our Columbia office at 602 E. Main Street in Lexington will be managed by Kris Ancone and can house 20 agents. Our <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/get-to-know-our-greenville-agents/">Greenville </a><a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/get-to-know-our-greenville-agents/">office</a> at 30 Orchard Park near Haywood Mall will be managed by Drew Warfuel and can house 40 agents. The updated space will also include a large meeting room fit for training sessions and continuing education.
We are aiming to service 1,500 families in 2018 and we are looking for 10 superstar agents to help us meet our goal. Are you looking to get into real estate? Visit <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.joinjcre.com" href="http://www.joinjcre.com" rel="nofollow">www.JoinJCRE.com</a> to learn more about how to join our team!2017-12-31T12:35:00-07:002022-09-27T04:53:00-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6041How Do You Get Laid Off For Making Too Many Sales? Hey Charleston,
Jeff here! Recently I was asked the question: “How did you get laid off from Corporate America for making too many sales?” It’s a really intriguing story so I thought I would share it with you.
How many of you remember the tv & appliance retailer <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/eight-reasons-why-circuit-city-went-bankrupt/">Circuit City</a>? I was working for them back in 2002 on straight commission selling TVs when Best Buy exploded onto the scene. Circuit City announced they were transitioning their pay scale from commission to hourly pay. What’s worse was the announcement that they couldn’t afford to keep the top producers on staff at the hourly rate that they averaged on commission. Anyone who averaged over a certain dollar amount in sales per hour was terminated and security was present to help escort those employees out, including me. Every store across the entire country lost their top 5 salespeople instantly and shortly therefore filed bankruptcy. By taking the top salespeople out of each store, they essentially took the engine out of the car and expected it to still function. Alan McCullough was the CEO at the time and I have always wondered why he made those changes and if it was really his choice or pressure from shareholders. It was a learning experience of what not to do if I ever opened a company.
In 2003, just one year later, I decided to launch Jeff Cook Real Estate. My first priority was to establish and build a culture that cultivated hard work and rewards for our team members. I wanted to create a safe working environment where no one would have to fear corporate politics or worry about getting laid off for being the best at what they do. You can read more about our culture here. The sky's the limit when it comes to real estate sales. It was just me when I started in 2003, but within 4 to 5 years, I was able to grow to 10 people and form a team which gained market share during the recession. Often times people ask how I grew so quickly because they only took notice after 2013 when we started marketing heavy in the Charleston area. What they failed to notice were the previous 10 years of work behind the scenes to build the infrastructure. Currently, we have over 100 team members today and are still <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/selling-homes-is-awesome-join-the-jcre-team/">looking for a few more talented players</a> who aren’t scared to roll up their sleeves and jump into this hot market! In Real Estate sales, the sky is literally the limit, where you are appreciated and paid based on the extra effort that you choose to put in.
If you’re considering a career in Real Estate, check out more at <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.joinjcre.com" href="http://www.joinjcre.com" rel="nofollow">www.JoinJCRE.com</a> or call 843-501-9786.
I can’t wait to hear from you,
<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/who-is-jeff-cook/">Jeff Cook</a>2017-08-30T10:40:00-07:002022-09-27T05:49:28-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6045Why Is Jeff's Head On Rosie?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Susie_Shultz_and_Rosie_the_Riveter.jpg" width="1200" height="628" alt="Female Empowerment In Real Estate" />
**UPDATE**
We've had one or two women's rights activists message us asking if we are attempting to minimize women's rights. No. In fact, just the opposite is true as Jeff is promoting all of his female employees this month by featuring them on Rosie boards. Please <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.facebook.com/JeffCookRealEstate/posts/1817328944960143" href="https://www.facebook.com/JeffCookRealEstate/posts/1817328944960143" rel="nofollow">click here</a> to see Jeff and his 40 female agents being featured as Rosie.
Dear Charleston,
Hi! I’m <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/who-is-jeff-cook/">Jeff Cook</a>, of Jeff Cook Real Estate, located here in the Charleston area. You may know me from the variety of billboards I’ve put up over the years. Some of the team’s favorites have been me as Lego Man and also Old Woman in the Shoe, and my most popular <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/moving-to-canada/">“Moving to Canada”</a> billboard featuring Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton.
As you drive around the tri-county the next two months, you may notice my face on the bodies of “Rosie the Riveter” and “Uncle Sam” in my latest billboard campaign. I imagined it would turn some heads, get a few laughs, and be considered a compliment to strong women that I wanted to be associated with an iconic figure.
Showing off muscle in the rolled-up sleeves of her work shirt with a red bandana tying up her hair, “<a href="https://www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii/rosie-the-riveter">Rosie the Riveter</a>” was a strong, iconic, female image used in campaigns to recruit female workers during World War II. She helped increase the percentage of females in the workplace by 10% in 5 years, with the aircraft industry employment growing to 65% females. Rosie’s mantra of “We Can Do It” forever shaped the involvement of American women in the workforce, who took the initiative to take charge and take care of the homeland.
Head over to Facebook and you will notice that all female agents in my company have been provided their own Rosie banners to promote themselves. It is the mission statement of my company to empower my team to strive for their very best and I believe this move will empower my female employees as well as any women looking to get into real estate by associating them with such a strong, working-class, memorable woman. A real estate career allows a woman to be well balanced with work and home so that they never have to feel guilty for missing out on time with their families.
I believe real estate is a fair industry where men and women have the chance to be equal in pay. Here at Jeff Cook Real Estate, they are given the same opportunity with the same benefits to becoming a top producer on the team. Just last year, our coveted King Kong trophy for the top producer of 2016 was awarded to a female agent. She hit a homerun with Rosie’s mantra of “We Can Do It!” Currently, female agents make up approximately half of my sales team and are responsible for approximately half of the real estate sales made under the team so far this year.
I would really like to see my sales team rise to equal parts men and women. I have also provided the male agents on my team with their own Uncle Sam banners. I strive to see my agents become powerhouses in the real estate community and help them advance their careers. Have you considered a career in real estate? Come join the #1 team in Charleston. Visit <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.JoinJCRE.com" href="http://www.JoinJCRE.com" rel="nofollow">www.JoinJCRE.com</a> or call 843-501-9786 for more details.2017-06-26T10:46:00-07:002020-12-10T14:15:43-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6046The Questions You Should Be Asking A Realtor<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Realtors_Are_Here_To_Help.png" width="1200" height="800" alt="Questions For Real Estate Agents" />
Deciding to buy or sell a home is a major life decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Therefore, you need to make sure you choose a realtor who will have your best interest in mind. It’s okay to interview up to three agents, but do you know what to ask?
What are your references?
An agent should immediately be able to hand over a minimum of 5 positive references. Here at Jeff Cook Real Estate, we have over 1,564 5-star reviews between Facebook and Zillow!
Are you on a team or are you an independent agent?
Either answer is okay, but be sure to ask why. Jeff Cook Real Estate is team driven. Not only will you have a dedicated agent, but you will also have a devoted closing coordinator, and a committed listing coordinator, if you are selling your home. The closing coordinator will assist you in final paperwork along with continuously updating you throughout the process and communicating any changes. The listing coordinator will assist you with scheduling professional photography, any pre-listing inspections or home staging, put your home on the MLS for marketing and showings, and have the for sale sign and lockbox delivered to your home.
How many transactions do you do each year? How many current clients do you have?
It is important to have an experienced realtor who understands every step of <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/how-to-sell-your-home-without-a-real-estate-agent/">the home selling/buying process</a>. They are more familiar with what you need to do to list your house and how to negotiate with the opposing party. If they aren’t as experienced, this is where being on a team comes into play. You want an agent that has enough current clients to show the trust in them, but not too many that you will be fighting for attention. Here at Jeff Cook Real Estate, we handled over 780 transactions in 2016 and are on track to help 1,080 families in 2017.
Are you a full time or part-time realtor? Do you have another job or occupation?
This is the biggest financial transaction of your life. Be sure that the agent representing you treats it that way with their time, focus and dollars. A part-time realtor may be juggling a regular full-time job and may not be responsive to emails, phone calls, appointments, and showings in a timely manner. They also may not be as well versed in every possible issue that may come up in a real estate transaction. A full-time agent is well seasoned in the real estate industry and is always available. We HIGHLY recommend using a full-time agent!
What is your communication style?
If you are a tech-based person and you hire an agent that isn’t, you’re set up for frustration. The same goes if you despise technology and your agent relies solely on it. Make sure you’re on the same page so expectations can be met.
What’s your marketing budget?
Don’t get stuck with an agent that only does the bare minimum “3Ps”.1) puts a sign in the yard, 2) puts your home on the <a href="http://www.mls.com/">MLS</a>, 3) prays that it sells. Make sure they’re putting serious cash towards marketing and servicing your home. Here at Jeff Cook Real Estate, we have a full marketing team with a hefty budget, dedicated to creating demand to get your home sold for the most amount of money. Our marketing system brings in over 2,500 people looking to buy every month!
How do you handle a situation if you represent both the buyer and the seller?
Representing both the buyer and seller on a transaction is common and is called dual agency. There can be challenges and hurdles with this as the agent needs to make sure to look out for both parties. Make sure to discuss this at length with your agent.
What are your tactics for a multiple offer situation?
Sometimes multiple offers will happen on a property. Handling this correctly will mean the difference of thousands of dollars if you’re a seller or a buyer. If this is handled incorrectly it could result in not getting the deal you want and often in financial loss. We have many agents that have won many multiple offer situations due to a special tactic we teach.
What separates you from your competition?
Do you want to go with an average agent that blends in with the rest, especially when you are looking to sell your home, or would you rather sign with an agent who is backed by a full-service team to guarantee your home sold?
We would love for you to interview us for the job! Get to know <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/who-is-jeff-cook/">Jeff Cook</a> and give us a call at 855-HEY-JEFF!2017-06-22T10:49:00-07:002021-08-30T12:42:56-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6049What Is The Jeff Cook Experience?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/JCRE_.jpg" width="1200" height="1200" alt="Jeff Cook Real Estate Experience" />
Are you wondering what the <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/who-is-jeff-cook/">Jeff Cook</a> experience is all about? Let our friends Michael and Amber Jaquins show you by sharing their recent real estate story.
I was being relocated by my job to the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g54171-Charleston_South_Carolina-Vacations.html">Charleston Area</a>. The relocation company linked me up with a Real Estate Agency that was on their "Preferred" list of realtors. I worked with the other agency for about a month and did not receive satisfactory service. The agent was never available when we were, and made little effort to meet us when we were available. We wanted to make an offer on a home and the agent waited so long to write up the offer that the home was gone before we could sign an offer. The agent showed no sense of urgency to ensure we would get the home we wanted, and urgency is important in the current market.
My wife saw the home we ended purchasing online and we called a "recommended realtor" immediately to request a showing. That agent advised us that it was too short notice and would not be able to show us until the next day. (It was 5:30pm)
At that time I contacted Jeff Cook Real Estate to request information on the home. Within 5 minutes I got a call from Drew Warfuel. I explained to him that we really loved the home and wanted to see it tonight before another offer is accepted.
Without hesitation Drew said he would show the house to us tonight. Within 30 minutes he met us at the house and walked us through it. We loved the house and wanted to make an offer immediately. Drew told us that if we wanted the house he would do everything he could to make sure we got it. He stayed up and in contact with us until 11pm that night and had a ratified contract for us by 10am the next morning. Drew and his assistant Justa were always available for questions, and they followed through with every request we made.
We had such a good experience with Jeff Cook Real Estate that I contacted the relocation company and told them they needed to start referring Jeff Cook Real Estate to anyone else that is relocated to the Charleston Area. I have purchased 4 houses in my lifetime, and Jeff Cook Real Estate by far had the best customer service.
Thanks again for helping us get our dream home!!
- Michael and Amber Jaquins
Are you ready to start your Jeff Cook experience? <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/meet-the-sell-squad/">Meet the team</a>, and we'll help you sell AND buy today!
2017-03-06T11:55:00-07:002021-08-30T12:40:27-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6057Mount Pleasant Has A New Neighbor<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Jeff_Cook_Real_Estate.jpg" width="1275" height="1275" alt="Jeff Cook Real Estate in Mount Pleasant" />
On the heels of record-breaking months of real estate sales in which the company sold 281 homes over the summer months and 500 homes a year to date, here at <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/who-is-jeff-cook/">Jeff Cook Real Estate</a>, we continue to grow with the opening of our new Mount Pleasant location. We have also recently launched an Operations Center in North Charleston, expanded our West Ashley location and we are in the process of expanding our Summerville location on Dorchester Road.
The Mount Pleasant office, located at 311 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, will serve as our fourth sales office. Currently, the office houses a team of fourteen sales agents who are dedicated to servicing the<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/best-of-mount-pleasants-neighborhoods/"> Mount Pleasant area</a> with their home buying and selling needs. Our agents find it very rewarding to be part of the excitement of a client’s real estate transaction, whether it be helping them sell to move onto the next step in their journey, or help them achieve their homeownership dreams.
We are on track to employ 100 agents by the end of 2016 to help with our increase in clients, so we are excited that our Mount Pleasant team now has a brick and mortar office space that allows for more growth. After working virtual within Mount Pleasant for over a year, it's exciting to be able to plant roots in the area. The one word to describe our team would be effective. On a daily basis what we attempt to do is show up and deliver the best service possible as well as to get the most results. We want to make sure the process is easy and that our clients are well informed and educated along the way, and also that they’re able to reach their desired goal.
Come check out <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g54354-Mount_Pleasant_South_Carolina-Vacations.html">some of the best that Mount Pleasant</a> has to offer and join in on the celebration of the new office, with the Grand Opening today, Thursday, September 8th, from 9 am to 6 pm. Radio personalities from WAYFM, 95SX, and MIX96 will be on hand along with food from Sticky Fingers and The Shelter. We will have plenty of agents on hand if you are ready to make that real estate jump. Stop by and see us at 311 Johnnie Dodds Boulevard Suite 181, a quarter-mile off the Ravenel Bridge on the right. Can't wait to see you there!
We are looking to hire three to five more agents in each of our locations. If you are interested in pursuing a full-time career in real estate sales, please visit our website at <a href="http://www.joinjcre.com/">www.JoinJCRE.com</a>.2016-09-08T07:38:00-07:002021-08-30T12:38:25-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cook