Defining Value: Realtors Explain What Value Means to Them
With the recent settlement and policy changes, the word “value” gets used a lot. What does it really mean to provide consumers value? We spoke with Realtors® from around Florida to find out.
In today’s post-settlement environment, the word on everyone’s lips is “value.” Putting value into perspective for prospective and current customers as well as others in the real estate industry is key. We talked to successful Realtors® throughout Florida to hear their thoughts on how they define their value and the power of a Realtor.
Florida Realtors — Your Value to Others, Our Value to You
Here’s what they said:
“Value is more than being present. The acumen of a real estate professional begins with our integrity, evolves through our expertise and is complemented with our select network. All these characteristics are essential to help [customers] navigate the complexities of real estate transactions.”
—Kimberly Wagner, sales associate, Douglas Elliman, Naples
“Value is a constant commitment to excellence and a paramount goal to exceed the expectations of my [customers] and everyone I interact with. Agents who aspire for longevity and success should focus on attention to meticulous detail, unyielding market knowledge and constant honing of their negotiation skills.”
—Josie Wang, Realtor®, Brown Harris Stevens, Miami
“My value is that I work very hard for my customers. If we sit down and we all work together, we can solve any problem. With my wide range of certifications, I understand the local market. I don’t give up; and I work to the best of my ability for my customers.”
—Cindy Birge, broker-owner, Elite Realty, Chipley
“I’m a very collaborative agent. I don’t feel that we’re ever working against one another in this business. I also have strong negotiating skills and want to make every transaction a win-win for everyone.”
—Erin Halstead, broker-associate, Michael Saunders & Company, Englewood
“For buyer’s agents, value extends beyond mere availability and communication—it involves uncovering off-market properties and fostering strong connections with fellow agents, ensuring [customers] are informed before homes hit the market. Market knowledge is crucial, but networking plays a significant role, too.”
—Alex Platt, principal agent of the Platt Group at Compass, Boca Raton
“Providing value is more than just opening doors. It’s about delivering on promises and staying in close communication as a trusted partner and local market expert. The power of a Realtor is delivering a concierge level of service before, during and after a sale, regardless of the purchase price.”
—Lynne Andrews, Realtor®, Corcoran Reverie, Seagrove Beach
“High-quality real estate brokers bring the same value as yacht, art or stockbrokers. Their value is their local market knowledge and negotiating expertise. Value is acquired through relationships and community connectivity for consistent market presence and sales performance.”
—Julie Jones, vice president of ultra-luxury sales, Douglas Elliman, Fort Lauderdale
“The value of a Realtor is being able to take the emotion out of a transaction, provide information and knowledge about communities and tell the story of a house all while navigating the unique challenges and obstacles of the largest financial investment people make.”
—David Serle, broker-owner, RE/MAX Services, Boca Raton
“Unique expertise, market knowledge and insights, connections and network, and negotiation skills to ensure customers get the best deal and optimal transactions—that’s value. The power of a Realtor lies in our ability to navigate and simplify complex transactions, offer strategic guidance and deliver personalized service, ultimately maximizing the customer’s satisfaction, experience and outcome.”
—Carol Medeiros, Realtor®, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, Orlando
“Value is analytical market knowledge of what can’t be found online, access to properties that aren’t available yet or coming to market, professional networks to provide proper navigation, negotiation skills specific to a customer’s immediate needs, and emotional support and guidance proven after many years of experience.”
—Darin Tansey, Realtor®, Douglas Elliman, Miami Beach
“Take the time to genuinely understand and connect with your customers. My commitment is to anticipate and surpass expectations in unexpected ways, without fail. Crafting a successful real estate strategy that is 100% unique to my buyer, seller or developer is the epitome of value.”
—Suzanne Petrizzi, broker-associate, The Corcoran Group, Delray Beach
“We meticulously track current listings, anticipate upcoming opportunities and leverage our network to uncover off-market gems, all to ensure our customers’ time is spent exclusively on viable prospects. We research neighboring properties and scrutinize zoning regulations to safeguard our customers’ investments.”
—Ivan Chorney, co-founder of the Ivan & Mike Team with Compass, Miami
“My value is the knowledge and experience I share with customers because a more informed customer is going to make better decisions. It’s important to understand personality styles and how to convey information in a way that fits their personality.”
—Gonzalo Mejia, Realtor®, Watson Realty Corp., Jacksonville
“I think being calm and taking the stress away from a buyer or seller provides value. We’re all trying to do our best and get the best deal. The key is to stay calm because yelling isn’t going to help.”
—Charles Sowers, Realtor®, Realty ONE Group, Panama City Beach
A real estate professional’s true value lies in fully serving their customers, securing the best prices and deals, and guiding them through every step of the transaction. This demands skill, education and unwavering commitment. #
Michele Lerner is a Washington, D.C.,-based freelance writer.