Realtors shouldn’t be under a parent-child relationship with employers. Terri empowers realtors and agents to be entrepreneurs! Terri began a support/mastermind group of realtors who act as accountability partners and offer support to one another to accomplish their goals. This is changing the industry for this team and fostering an environment of camaraderie as opposed to competition. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Terri Jeffries who has been in real estate for 23 years. She is a managing broker of United Real Estate Chicago in the suburb area in Chicago.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:41 – Leigh introduces Terri
• 01:05 – Terri is the managing broker of United Real Estate Chicago
• 01:18 – Terri currently has 225 agents in the Chicago area
• 01:23 – The brand rolled out in the Chicago market 5 years ago
• 01:31 – Terri has been in real estate for 23 years
• 01:54 – It’s now Terri’s job to empower her entrepreneurs
• 02:24 – Some companies like to setup a parent-child relationship
• 02:49 – Agents are entrepreneurs
• 03:25 – In 1996, Terri signed up to Brian Buffini’s coaching program as an agent
• 03:44 – 27 years later, as a managing broker, Buffini’s company had a program called “heat performers”
• 04:17 – Terri adopted Buffini’s program and asked who wanted to participate
  • 04:28 – There were 9 women who joined Terri and Terri had her mentorship certification
• 04:58 – Terri’s 12-week program started with the ladies’ business plan
  • 05:07 – In a few weeks, the plan will be solidified as a group
  • 05:17 – The ladies came up with the group name “P.O.W.E.R”
  • 05:48 – After the 12-week program, everyone had to write down on the wall where they needed help and wanted to be coached in
  • 06:23 – There were 9 big sticky notes with the ladies’ units and income goals
  • 06:30 – They’re still meeting after the 12-week program
  • 07:20 – The crazy thing is that they’ve set a common goal which is 182 closed transactions for the year
  • 07:44 – The group is already at 127 closed transactions
• 08:05 – Mastermind groups are everywhere in real estate
• 08:16 – What’s amazing with Terri’s group is they’re all in the same office
• 08:40 – Most realtors don’t talk about where they can grow their skill set
• 09:00 – The ladies in Terri’s group have become friends
• 09:08 – 2 ladies from the group, Melissa and Tracy, are competing and yet they love each other
  • 09:37 – When they come to meetings, they’ll talk about how it was competing on the same listing and why they didn’t get the listing
  • 09:53 – The reasons can be talked about as a group and as a means to help each other
• 10:12 – The group created a closed Facebook group for updates and support
• 10:42 – Ruth, who has been in the same mentorship program with Terri, helps Terri when there’s a problem with the program
• 11:11 – The consumer is also the real winner
• 12:15 – There are realtors ranting about agents or other people on Facebook
  • 12:54 – “Put your own house in order”
• 14:19 – Terri will roll out another group in the third week of June
• 14:53 – An “Entrepreneurial mindset is so important”
• 15:39 – Reach Terri by phone at 630-514-1459 and email
• 16:38 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Mastermind groups are everywhere, but finding the right one for you takes a bit of trial and error.
2. Realtors and agents are also entrepreneurs and they should treat every listing as their own business.
3. It is important for realtors to help and learn from one another—it is not only nurturing for them and their career but also healthy for the industry.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

It’s the final walkthrough, everyone is happy and excited about the home, until one hears shrieks coming from the clients. Paula and her clients did not anticipate what would be in the freezer that merited a very deep clean of the home upon purchase. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Paula Mathofer, president of Arizona Association of Realtors. She is a realtor in Flagstaff, Arizona and shares her crazy story with us today.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:36 – Leigh introduces Paula
• 01:25 – Leigh thanks Paula for all that she does for realtors in Arizona
• 01:58 – Paula practices real estate in Flagstaff, Arizona
• 02:06 – Paula lives on the mountain that had a ski resort that just closed down
• 03:01 – Paula is a practicing realtor and a mom
• 03:12 – Paula will finish her term as the president of Arizona Association of Realtors this year
• 04:48 – Paula shares her Flagstaff story
  • 05:02 – Paula is 5’2 and she’s very good at climbing
  • 05:40 – Paula can fit through dog doors
  • 06:54 – Paula was in a house having a final walkthrough with clients
  • 07:04 – The clients came out of the house freaking out and panicking
  • 07:20 – The clients found a dead cat covered in tin foil on a cutting board in the freezer
  • 07:38 – The house was vacant and there was nothing left
  • 08:21 – Throughout the whole transaction, Paula was working with the seller’s sister
  • 08:45 – The cat was actually the previous home owner’s pet that she wanted to bring and bury at her new place
  • 09:34 – Paula and her partner did a deep clean of the house
• 11:58 – Paula has donated her dyed hair in the past
• 13:58 – AAR plays a one-on-one game with every member of congress and senate
  • 14:06 – Realtors play a big role in the overall economy
• 14:38 – Realtors, as a culture and people, are hard-workers
• 15:30 – Find Paula at her website and email
• 16:32 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. Being small in size is an advantage for realtors – they can get into almost anything.
2. It’s important to deep clean the house you’re putting up for sale, especially before the final walkthrough.
3. Realtors play a significant role in the success and stability of our economy.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

You know those nails pops—the bumps or blemishes on a wall caused by wood studs shrinking—imagine having thousands of them on your newly constructed home.  Laura Czerwinski anticipated a few as they’re common with new builds, but THOUSANDS? Throw a new baby into the mix of transitioning into a new home and having repairmen coming in and and out, and you’ve got yourself a crazy story. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Laura Czerwinski, one of Leigh’s favorite clients who has a passion not just for building a house, but making it a home that you want to live in. 

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience. 

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:48 – Leigh introduces Laura
• 01:25 – Laura and her husband decided to build their house in 2014 after the birth of their son
  • 01:33 – It was Laura’s third time building a house and her husband’s first
• 01:40 – Laura and her husband didn’t have any idea what would happen after closing
• 01:55 – “Real estate is not a moment in time, it’s the craziest thing in our lives”
• 02:32 – Leigh was very supportive of Laura after what had happened to them after moving in
  • 02:57 – They encountered a lot of nail pops in their new home that needed to be repaired
  • 03:02 – They had thousands of nail pops, only after a few months
  • 03:59 – Laura did not have this problem with her first 2 homes to this extent
  • 04:20 – Laura has a newborn premature baby at home and people are constantly coming in for repairs
• 05:13 – Laura’s builder is a giant national builder and they had decent communication with the project manager until closing
  • 05:42 – Laura had 3 project managers through the entire process of building
• 05:56 – Laura suggests being persistent and to keep notes while building your house
• 06:00 – Laura stayed positive and thought of her family to keep her going
• 06:11 – Leigh told Laura that it’s better that the nail pops are happening now rather than later
• 06:44 – Everything is not sitting well for Laura’s husband either
• 07:26 – Laura always wants her house to be ready for a re-sell and to do things the right way
• 08:39 – Laura enjoys building a house
• 08:56 – “Home is where you make memories, it’s where you build your life”
• 09:12 – Laura feels that it’s her responsibility to take care of the house
• 09:34 – Laura converted a part of her previous house as a movie room when she and her husband got married
• 10:02 – Laura’s previous house design was her interpretation of the things that make her happy
  • 10:28 – Every time we travel, every part of the hotel that we stay in should make us feel happy and relaxed
  • 10:56 – Laura wanted to replicate that feeling when she’s home, she wants to relax and rest
• 11:07 – Laura goes crazy on articles stating how to make something look expensive or high-end
  • 11:28 – It’s about having a place of honor in your home
  • 11:38 – “It doesn’t have to be that you’re trying to pull off something looking expensive”
  • 12:26 – “I’m not trying to look expensive, I’m trying to look my style”
  • 12:34 – Go with things that make you feel good
• 13:20 – Laura got a lot of great feedback from the desk manager at her previous home
• 13:48 – Buyers look for something different in their house
• 13:58 – Laura built the desk manager because she had an awkward hallway that didn’t make sense
• 14:55 – “When you think of those little details on how you live every day, that makes sense”
• 15:41 – There’s a lot of ideas online for designing and this is where Laura gets most of her ideas
• 16:11 – Laura started a Facebook page, Cookie Cutter to Custom
  • 16:17 – People come together and give advice to each other for real projects that they can do
  • 17:09 – It’s a free website and there’s no need to purchase anything
  • 17:22 – Laura can give people recommendations that are low-budget and easy to do projects
  • 17:30 – There are also people who share what they’ve accomplished
  • 17:40 – Laura’s goal is for people to love where they live
• 18:28 – There are also people who will talk on Laura’s channel on how to protect your home, how to decorate and where you can purchase things
• 19:13 – Laura wants people to share and show off what they’ve done well
• 19:27 – Follow Laura on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube
• 21:22 – Laura’s house is now doing great and she has moved forward
• 22:59 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Be patient, persistent and keep notes while in the process of building your house.
2. Create a home where you want to build your memories with your family.
3. There are people who have great ideas, but may be too shy to share—having a online group is a great space to do this.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Sometimes the roles and responsibilities of realtors can be a bit fuzzy. Not only do they liaise on your behalf when it comes to selling or buying a home, but for Sarah Vander Vloet, they also become instant babysitters! Listen as today’s guest, Sarah Vander Vloet shares her hilarious experience with Leigh that expresses just how much trust a client can have in their realtor. 

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:43 – Leigh welcomes today’s guest, Sarah Vander Vloet
• 01:35 – Sarah has been a licensed realtor in London, Ontario since 2011
• 01:42 – She works alongside her husband, Mike, who’s been in real estate for 10 years
• 01:47 – They sell real estate and comanage the StreetCity Realty Inc, a Canadian owned corporation
• 03:06 – Sarah’s story has 3 parts: a home that took extra time and effort to sell, patient sellers, and trusting buyers
  • 03:21 – This happened last February
  • 03:23 – The house listed was an older home
  • 03:32 – For older homes, they sometimes don’t give the exact age of the property
  • 03:46 – This home was sold to the buyers a few years prior but they’ve outgrown the property
  • 04:02 – There was full disclosure of the house which included some water in the basement
  • 04:49 – It was listed for 30 days before it got an offer
  • 05:03 – The buyers were quite disappointed
  • 05:35 – They received a mutual release because the buyers were looking for a newer home
  • 05:43 – A month later, they received another offer – a conditional one
  • 05:58 – It was a low risk offer
  • 06:11 – All disclosures were given
  • 06:21 – 9 days later, they received another mutual release because the buyer’s home sale fell apart
  • 06:53 – The sellers had breaks throughout the process, but they feltl a little disappointed
  • 07:10 – 10 days later, there came another offer
  • 07:16 – The low-ball offer was not accepted
  • 08:12 – While everything was going on, Sarah was in correspondence with some interested buyers
  • 09:09 – They made an appointment
  • 09:27 – The buyer was caught in traffic and texted Sarah that he would be late
  • 09:44 – A van pulled up and the buyer’s wife was going to work—she left the kids with Sarah in the front yard
  • 10:12 – It happened too fast that Sarah’s brain couldn’t keep up
  • 10:43 – She realized she was the babysitter and waited until their father arrived
  • 11:16 – The buyer arrived in a few moments and they ended up buying the home
• 12:49 – You should know who you’re meeting
• 14:00 – The public is spending a lot of time with their realtors
• 15:30 – Sarah remembers coming home and telling her husband about how she randomly ended up babysitting
• 17:00 – Reach Sarah through her phone 519-777-7205, on Leading London, or by email sarah@leadinglondon.ca
• 17:58 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Not being able to sell a home can be frustrating, so appreciate those clients who remain patient.
2. Communication is of the utmost importance.
3. As realtors, be prepared to go above and beyond the call when it comes to your service.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Realtors help people buy, sell, or lease their homes, but when do their services and responsibility to the client end? A closing or a successfully sold property does NOT necessarily mean the realtor’s job is done. Leigh interviews Steve Weiss, a realtor of 32 years, shares about an after-sale issue where he sends his clients on a nice dinner out so that he could investigate a peculiar smell coming from under the house.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:37 – Leigh welcomes today’s guest, Steve Weiss
• 00:56 – Steve lives in San Luis Obispo
• 01:26 – It’s located on the central coast, in between San Francisco and LA
• 01:49 – Steve has been in residential real estate for almost 32 years
• 02:58 – After 32 years in real estate and with tons of stories, Steve found it difficult to just pick one story
  • 03:16 – San Luis Obispo is a college town
  • 03:44 – Their real estate community has dubbed some homes by name
    • 03:50 – The Alamo – a house that seems to have battles all the time
    • 04:03 – The Fredericks of Hollywood – house that has whips and other crazy items hanging in sight of the public
    • 04:18 – PP Home – a home filled with ladies with paraphernalia and panties
  • 04:41 – Steve’s story was from the early 1990’s
    • 05:10 – His son, Eric, had a friend who was moving out
    • 05:19 – There was something strange about the home
    • 05:38 – Steve listed the home and it sold rather quickly
    • 05:54 – The buyer had a home inspection and termite inspection
    • 06:15 – There were numerous things that needed to be addressed
    • 06:23 – The screen that blocked vermin was needing to be replaced
    • 06:35 – They tented the home
    • 06:44 – The buyers moved in
    • 06:54 – A few days after, there was a hint of a smell and it kept getting worse
    • 07:24 – They called the fume company
    • 07:34 – The fume guy went underneath the house and found a dead skunk
    • 07:42 – The smell did not go away
    • 08:12 – The fume guy went under the house again, dug deeper and found another skunk
    • 08:58 – Both husband and wife were in tears
    • 09:09 – Steve gave them cash to have a nice dinner so they could see what they could do to eliminate the issue
    • 09:30 – After this issue, the husband woke up in the middle of the night and found maggots coming out from under the carpet
    • 10:35 – 4 months later, the seller came to town and ran into the new owners
    • 10:49 – Mrs. Buyer told Mrs. Seller that the house was haunted
  • 11:19 – Stop thinking about the money
  • 12:09 – Steve’s parents taught him to be compassionate
  • 12:48 – Make things right
  • 13:47 – Leigh suggests that realtors should have an emergency fund
  • 14:24 – Do research on the realtors you select
  • 14:55 – The worst thing a realtor can do is hide
  • 15:57 – Contact Steve on SLO Properties or call him at 805-886-1404
  • 17:25 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. Always go back and double check items listed in the home inspection report to find out the probable causes for those particular issues.
2. Even if a house has been turned over, it’s a realtor’s moral duty to help the new owners find any underlying problems regarding the sale.
3. Always show compassion and make things right.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Home inspections prove to be an important part of a home buying process – it’s simply an opportunity to know a full, unbiased disclosure of the property you’re getting. Today’s guest, Pat Tasker from Milwaukee, Wisconsin shares her crazy story of a home inspection that will send you through the roof—or in this case, through the second floor, literally. 

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:38 – Leigh welcomes Pat Tasker
• 00:58 – Pat is from Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• 01:06 – She has been in real estate for 28 years
• 01:58 – Pat shares about the most crazy home inspection ever:
  • 02:05 – A couple was buying their first home – a Cape Cod house
  • 02:30 – Pat has always attended inspections because of 2 things:
    • 02:43 – She likes to know what the home inspector says
    • 03:01 – She’ll have to negotiate any problems
  • 03:21 – Mr. Buyer was following the inspector while Mrs. Buyer was upstairs with her camera
  • 03:37 – Pat was in the dining room with a mentee group of 6 agents
  • 03:48 – She was taking to an agent and she thought she saw something in the living room
  • 04:12 – Pat then thought she heard an egg cracking and she saw small debris falling
  • 04:28 – The ceiling cracked open and 2 legs came through
  • 04:41 – Her buyer was hanging from the 2nd floor down to the living room; she then fell flat onto the floor
  • 05:03 – Her buyer just missed a stone mantle, a foot away
  • 05:16 – Pat called the listing agent
  • 05:47 – The buyer fixed the ceiling after getting the house
• 06:31 – There are times where buyers forget that the house is still the seller’s house
• 07:01 – It was the buyer’s fault
• 07:18 – The buyer took full responsibility and the seller didn’t mind the hole until she left the house
• 08:36 – The buyer was too busy taking photos of the house that she didn’t notice where she was walking
• 09:38 – A home inspector told Pat that some agents get combative during inspections
• 09:54 – The home inspector should do his job in informing the buyer of the house’s condition
• 10:18 – If you can’t keep your mouth shut, don’t go to the inspections
• 11:22 – Reach Pat on her phone 414-588-4907 or on her website
• 12:13 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. It’s sometimes better to be present at home inspections, even if you’re not required to.
2. Buyers should remember to be always careful checking out a property – the house is still the seller’s property.
3. An agent should never interrupt while a home inspector does his job.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Alyssa did not think that leaving her keys behind would result in her breaking and entering in on her client’s condo unit..let alone that this would happen on her first showing ever. Bad luck? Perhaps. Either way, it was a lesson learned. Leigh welcomes Alyssa Hellman who has been in real estate since 2010. She is the head coach of Bamboo Realty, in North Carolina.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:40 – Leigh introduces Alyssa
• 01:26 – Alyssa is the head coach at Bamboo Realty
  • 01:31 – Alyssa is not currently active in selling homes, but she has a team of agents
  • 01:54 – Alyssa started as an assistant in 2010, and grew her career from there
  • 02:40 – The difficult time in real estate helped mold Alyssa
  • 02:53 – “When you come in and the market is low, you know, sometimes you’re having conversations with people that really aren’t easy conversations to have”
  • 03:20 – Some new real estate agents come into the business cold and are thrown to the consumers
  • 03:48 – Alyssa’s experience, in 2010, made her comfortable with helping her clients
  • 03:59 – Alyssa learned quickly that she does NOT have all the answers
• 04:53 – Alyssa’s crazy story is one of the first deals she ever had in real estate
  • 04:58 – This was when Alyssa was not listing properties, but helping buyers
  • 05:01 – Alyssa’s team leader had a hot listing at that time
  • 05:11 – The seller’s daughter and her boyfriend were looking for a condo
  • 05:19 – Alyssa had never shown a property and her team leader told her to just call if she needed help
  • 05:38 – The couple and Alyssa went to visit a condo with a rooftop deck
  • 05:46 – They went into the unit, Alyssa left the keys in the unit, and went to the rooftop deck when a thunderstorm suddenly hit
  • 06:00 – The boyfriend shut the door behind him
  • 06:07 – Luckily, the seller had the windows slightly open
  • 06:31 – Alyssa ended up cutting the screen so they could get inside
  • 06:50 – Alyssa now will never leave the keys anywhere
• 06:58 – A broken screen is less of a liability than having people struck by lightning
• 07:38 – All the crazy shit that happens in real estate teaches us the lesson of what NOT to do
• 08:03 – The couple didn’t buy the condo
• 08:42 – Alyssa believes the seller was turned off by the automatic lock in the unit
• 08:50 – Leigh believes that any realtor who has shown a potential buyer their client’s home has locked themselves out or in of their client’s unit
• 09:16 – Fights among sellers, buyers and agents are becoming more common
• 10:08 – Alyssa learned about finding your voice in whatever communication method that works
• 10:18 – Alyssa tells her agents that they need to be comfortable talking with buyers, sellers and co-agents
• 11:20 – There’s an issue in the industry of people emailing rather than calling
• 12:02 – Alyssa’s mom would tell her that there’s an occasion to call, an occasion to write, and an occasion to see someone face-to-face
• 12:25 – Put yourself into the consumer’s shoes
• 13:23 – Don’t email in instances where there are questions that need to be answered
  • 13:30 – You’ve got to provide an opportunity for a back-and-forth and an opportunity to answer their questions
• 14:04 – Alyssa would recommend certain agents, depending on the area
• 14:21 – Reach Alyssa through her email and Twitter
• 15:26 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Any terrible experience in real estate is an opportunity to learn what NOT to do.
2. Even when the market is slow in real estate, there is still much to learn as an agent.
3. Use your discretion when it comes to the RIGHT form of communication—does this instance require a phone call, an email, or face-to-face interaction?

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Back in the day, when dealings for a home went down in person, you’d experience the joy, firsthand, from sellers and buyers alike, when they finally closed that deal. Pauline Relkey was able to share in the joy of a first-time homebuyer as they closed a deal in-person with the seller. However, everyone in that room got a little bit more than they bargained. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Pauline Relkey who has been in real estate for 26 years and is from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. 

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience. 

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:43 – Leigh introduces Pauline
• 00:55 – Pauline is located in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
  • 01:00 – Pauline has been selling residential real estate for 26 years now
• 01:30 – Pauline always likes to see the funny side in everything
  • 01:37 – Pauline’s story started back in the day, when they would still make offers in person
  • 01:53 – Back then, Pauline would call the agent, tell the agent about her offer for the listing, go to the seller’s house, meet the seller and agent, and present the offer
  • 02:15 – One evening, Pauline went to a seller’s house and the agent answered the door
  • 02:23 – Pauline and the agent went to the dining room where Pauline met the seller
  • 02:37 – Pauline’s buyers were first time buyers and they were very excited to buy the house
  • 02:49 – Pauline went ahead with the offer
  • 02:59 – Pauline got up from the table, turned around and saw the drapes in the living room
  • 03:16 – Pauline’s buyers were excited that the drapes were included in the sale
  • 03:40 – Then the agent cleared his throat and when Pauline turned to him, he said “Pauline your skirt is caught in the back of your panty hose”
  • 03:50 – Pauline had her “OMG” moment
  • 04:15 – The buyers got the house and the sellers accepted their offer
  • 04:24 – After their deal, the male agent quit the business
  • 04:50 – During the realtors’ function, Pauline’s manager was talking about her
  • 05:37 – “Life goes on, you have to laugh at yourself”
• 06:00 – Things may change over the years, but the excitement of a first-time homebuyer stays the same
• 06:34 – Even after 26 years, Pauline still gets excited with her first-time buyers
• 07:20 – Pauline likes convenience, but agrees that we lose the personal touch when we’re not face-to-face and can’t see body language
• 08:21 – The pantyhose story keeps Pauline relatable and human
• 09:05 – Reach out to Pauline through her website and by phone: 306-536-6545
• 09:53 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. Funny and embarrassing things may happen—be able to just laugh at yourself.
2. Relating with someone face-to-face is the best form of communication.
3. First-time buyers will always have that excitement buying their first house—as a realtor, that excitement never gets old.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Andre is a superman when it comes to sales, but came into the industry of real estate with zero experience and zero knowledge. Regardless of this, Andre still managed to build his own successful real estate enterprise. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Andre Fajardo, owner of Advantage Realty Enterprise, which he started 4 years ago in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:47 – Leigh introduces Andre
• 00:58 – Andre is with Advantage Realty Enterprise which opened up 4 years ago in Raleigh, North Carolina
• 01:08 – Advantage Realty Enterprise specializes in new construction
• 01:17 – Advantage Realty Enterprise consider themselves as a specific brokerage
• 02:01 – Andre’s marriage is a testament to how a successful realtor can do so much more
• 02:18 – Andre shares his journey to becoming a realtor in Raleigh, North Carolina
  • 02:20 – Andre was born and raised in New Jersey
  • 02:25 – Andre has always been into sales
  • 02:50 – Andre and his wife went to North Carolina for a visit
  • 03:23 – They didn’t know anyone in North Carolina, but Andre just decided that they would move to North Carolina so he could sell houses
    • 03:34 – Andre’s wife agreed with him
    • 03:53 – When they got back home, Andre and his wife started planning
    • 04:06 – Andre had no real estate background
    • 04:29 – Andre and his wife have been together for 18 years
    • 04:35 – Andre’s wife has always been supportive of him
  • 04:57 – Before moving to NC, Andre learned about an opportunity to become a Legal Analyst
    • 05:14 – Andre got the job and was called the “firefighter”
  • 06:05 – Andre and his family stayed at a 1-bedroom condo when they first arrived in NC
  • 06:23 – Andre had an interview with a builder
    • 06:42 – “I was walking into the door there with only the sense that I know that I can do this”
    • 07:00 – When asked why they should hire him, Andre replied, “You don’t want me across the street, you know, because if I’m across the street, I’m going to be kicking you every single day, because I can not lose”
    • 07:26 – The builder believed and hired Andre
  • 07:52 – Through this, Andre learned that he had what it takes to be successful
  • 08:14 – Andre got his realtor license, joined Coldwell Banker, and stayed there for 8 months
  • 08:44 – Andre opened up Advantage Realty
    • 08:59 – Andre considers their company to act as a liaison to builders
    • 09:10 – Andre feels great about their decision
  • 09:28 – Leigh sees Andre’s experience as an inspiring one
  • 09:47 – When you go to any commission field, it is a leap of faith
  • 10:21 – The first thing Coldwell told Andre was to gather his influence
  • 11:02 – “Alot of realtors grab every deal they can, even if they don’t really know about it”
  • 11:47 – Andre shares why consumers would want his service
    • 13:14 – Andre’s job is to understand what his client is looking for and to point out how a property matches what they are looking for
  • 13:32 – Realtors get in the way of a sale to prove their expertise, but ending up losing a client
  • 13:50 – A consumer would still buy a house with or without a realtor
    • 14:29 – Andre firmly believes that if a consumer decides to buy a house, he will do it because he’s already decided
    • 15:00 – Andre thinks that a builder can’t connect with consumers well
    • 15:37 – There are still properties that consumers won’t find on the internet
    • 15:52 – Andre makes sure he has a thorough conversation with his client
    • 16:14 – Andre partners and acts as a liaison with builders and agents to understand their plans and goals for a property
  • 16:42 – Today’s episode is quite longer than usual because Andre’s story is different
  • 17:07 – Andre works opposite hours to his wife, so they can both take care of their kids
  • 17:25 – Most new licensee are afraid of jumping feet first because of the risk of failure
    • 17:54 – Andre’s father is from Dominican Republic and Andre was born in the USA
    • 18:35 – Real estate gave Andre the chance to change the course of his path
    • 18:48 – Andre came to NC, totally committed every single day
    • 19:00 – “I made the decision that this is going to work”
    • 19:32 – “There are people who you can relate to, that you can help to make their dreams happen”
    • 20:43 – There are people that can work their way up, because they’re committed
    • 21:06 – “It doesn’t matter who you are, what your background is, what your history is, there are people like you out there who need a home”
    • 21:26 – When they opened up the brokerage, Andre’s son told him that he can see the future
  • 22:11 – There’s zero excuse and zero experience needed to succeed
  • 22:56 – Andre also invests in the realtor political work
    • 23:00 – If you want to get involved, shoot Leigh or Andre a message
  • 23:20 – Reach Andre at 919-268-9884 and through social media using the handle @top5agent
  • 23:37 – Check com—they do a little real estate tour of new construction sites
  • 24:21 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. As a realtor, you have to understand your client—know what they want and make sure they are perfectly matched with the property.
2. A consumer will buy a property, with or without an agent’s help.
3. There’s zero excuse and zero experience needed to succeed.

Credits

Audio Production by Chris Mottram

Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives

Cover Design by Two Minds Design

Original Music by Rimsky Music

It is extremely important for those in real estate to stay vigilant at all times, especially in this day and age where technological crimes are at its peak. Imagine the pain and heartbreak a realtor goes through when he tells his elderly clients they’re put on hold at closing because of possible fraud. That’s what Brian Whitta, a realtor from the micropolitan city of Findlay, Ohio, experienced and he shares his story with us today.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:33 – Today’s episode isn’t just crazy, but heart-breaking, too
• 00:44 – Leigh introduces Brian Whitta
• 01:00 – Brian is located in Findlay, Ohio
• 01:14 – He got his license in 2005, but has only been full-time for the past 3 years
• 01:37 – A micropolitan is an honor bestowed upon a city when they are not tied to a metropolitan area
  • 01:54 – The criteria for receiving the honor includes having growth projects – Findlay is the world headquarters for Marathon Petroleum, Cooper Tire, with the largest dishwasher manufacturer plant, Whirlpool
• 03:04 – Brian’s story starts with Bob, a family friend who asked him some real estate questions
  • 03:11 – Brian went to Bob’s house and the questions were about the sale of their home
  • 03:24 – Bob had medical issues and they were considering moving to a condo unit
  • 03:36 – Mary was adamant about their moving to the RIGHT condo
  • 03:44 – Both Bob and Mary are nearly 80 years old
  • 03:51 – The first day of their house being listed, they had 5 showings
  • 03:57 – One agent quickly submitted an offer above the list price
  • 04:04 – The appraisal was low and the couple decided to not go through with the sale
  • 04:12 – The couple already had a condo in mind, but they couldn't make the sale go through
  • 04:34 – Bob needed to sell the house for the sake of their health; so, the other agent and Brian negotiated a reduction in their commission to help with reducing the closing costs
  • 04:48 – They made the sale go through
  • 04:54 – The seller of the condo decided they wouldn’t pay a realtor
  • 05:04 – Brian and the other realtor needed the proceeds from the sale of the house to cover the costs for the purchase of the condo
  • 05:14 – Bob and Mary decided they would pay Brian for the purchase of the condo
  • 06:27 – At closing, the attorney mentioned about the option of wiring the proceeds to Bob
  • 06:48 – Brian interrupted the attorney because they were supposed to get a cheque
  • 07:23 – The attorney explained the benefits of the proceeds being wired as opposed to receiving a cheque and Bob and Mary agreed
  • 07:56 – At 9am the following day, Bob called because the proceeds were still not in his account
  • 08:20 – The title office assured them that the wire transfer would come that day
  • 08:28 – At 11, Bob called Brian because the money wasn’t there yet
  • 08:42 – Bob didn’t call at noon so Brian thought things were okay
  • 08:50 – At 2pm (wire cut-off), he got a call that the money still hadn’t arrived
  • 09:02 – Brian called the title office
  • 09:20 – The owner advised that the wire had already been made at the account number Bob provided
  • 09:47 – The owner read the email to Brian and provided the account number, the address, the names of the parties involved, and the dollar amount
  • 10:18 – Brian told the owner that this was not Bob’s email address or his bank account numbers
  • 10:25 – The owner said he’d call back and hung up
  • 10:44 – Brian called his attorney and called Bob back regarding the wire fraud
  • 11:39 – Brian informed them the title office is liable for the loss
  • 11:48 – At 8pm, the office informed them the wire couldn’t be stopped and that it went through
  • 12:02 – They were on hold for the closing
  • 12:22 – After 13 hours, Brian got a call that the money was rejected and had been returned
  • 12:57 – The title office and bank fraud department coordinated with each other
  • 13:12 – The owner of the title handed over the cheque and they were able to close the condo
  • 13:21 – They later learned one of the emails of the transaction was hacked
• 15:30 – Processes and policies do not eliminate the risk for fraud
• 16:00 – Wire fraud is NOT only in big markets, it can happen anywhere
• 17:24 – It takes a different level of care to look after elderly clients
• 18:21 – Call Brian at 419-701-4040
• 18:31 – Connect with Brian on Selling Findlay
• 19:18 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. There is a different level of care and concern needed to support your elderly clients.
2. Be vigilant with fraud by having your policies and process in place, but remember, it can happen to anyone.
3. Going the extra mile—in this case, negotiating a reduction in commision—is just part of getting the job done and looking out for the interests of your client.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Traci Browning was only in her second deal as a real estate agent when she encountered a very, difficult client. Instead of backing down, Traci handled the situation head on and proved that she was one that could get the job done. Listen as Traci shares her crazy story and discover why Leigh says she is a shining “example of how we do real estate right.”

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:41 – Leigh welcomes Traci
• 00:53 – Traci is a residential realtor at Marietta and Kennesaw, Georgia
• 01:51 – Leigh shares the two rules of the podcast with Traci
• 02:20 – Traci shares her crazy story
  • 02:25 – Traci had a client that she helped to both buy and sell a house—the owner’s previous house was shared with her ex-fiancé
  • 02:45 – Traci was able to contact the ex-fiancé who created a new email just to communicate with her because he did not want to share his information with Traci’s client
  • 03:20 – After listing the house, the client rented it out without informing Traci
  • 03:32 – The tenant paid only a week’s worth of rent and Traci’s client had to give an eviction notice as they found drug paraphernalia in the house
  • 03:46 – Traci found an investor who was willing to buy the house provided the tenant pay his dues
  • 04:00 – At the closing, the tenant brought the money he owed, but it had to be postponed and the client threw a tantrum
  • 04:32 – The tenant was eventually evicted; but, before the closing was scheduled, the client told Traci that she already found a buyer on her own
  • 05:05 – Traci explained that they had a contract
  • 05:28 – The day before and the morning of closing, Traci could not contact her client
  • 05:50 – When Traci arrived at the closing, the client had already signed and their deal was closed
  • 06:05 – The ex-fiancé and brother of the client was impressed with how Traci handled this whole ordeal that they got her to sell their properties
• 06:32 – This was Traci’s second deal and her broker helped her through it
• 07:10 – Traci maintained a relationship with the ex-fiancée and he already has his own family with a baby on the way
• 07:44 – Traci shares another story
  • 07:55 – Another agent passed a house to her as the price point was too low
  • 08:06 – The agent passed 6 houses, in total, to Traci
  • 08:42 – The agent did not want the house, because it was too small
  • 09:22 – It was Traci’s first deal and it turned into a half a million dollar, real estate deal
• 09:58 – Leigh says there is no good reason for a realtor to not handle your property, as a client
• 10:25 – The hallmark of a true professional is understanding how important the property is to the owner
• 11:25 – Contact Traci at 770-820-6638 or at Marietta Home Team, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
• 12:31 – Reach out to Tracy as she can sell your property and has a good sense of her community
• 12:52 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. Do your work properly, especially with difficult clients, and other people will take notice.
2. Building trust with your clients is important.
3. True real estate professionals understand the importance of the property to the owner.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Today’s episode discusses one crazy way of doing real estate that could help sellers get TOP DOLLAR for their home when it comes to crazy bidding wars—auctions. What better way to motivate buyers than to have them compete, in-person, with other interested candidates! Leigh chats with Ray Wood, an experienced auctioneer in real estate. Tune is as they talk about both the barriers and benefits of auctioning your home. 

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience. 

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:28 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:42 – Leigh welcomes Ray Wood
• 00:56 – Ray is a partner at Best Agents and Locked On
• 01:48 – Ray is a fourth generation, real estate agent and it was his Dad who got him into the industry
• 02:26 – A lot of property is auctioned in Australia and Ray got his start by auctioning different items from the back of a truck
• 03:45 – Buying a property is an emotional decision
• 04:23 – An auction is a transparent environment where the buyers can see who else wants the property and this makes them want it more
• 05:48 – Ray shares how there are instances in the Toronto market where 30 or more people make an offer on the same property
  • 06:27 – By conducting an auction, you’ll easily be getting top dollar for your home as opposed to looking at all offers individually
• 06:58 – Consumers in the US and Canada are typically against auctions
  • 07:05 – Consumers must be educated about how auctions can be productive
  • 07:48 – An auction starts at a base amount as opposed to starting at a high amount
  • 08:50 – Auctions in North America are still stigmatized because agents and sellers do not know how they work
  • 09:31 – Agents should help the sellers understand the science of how it works
• 10:16 – An open time in Australia is 45 minutes
• 11:22 – Ray is big on establishing a relationship with an agent
• 12:07 – Ray wrote a book: How to Sell Your Home for More
• 12:32 – Leigh asks Ray where people can find auction specialists and Ray has no idea
• 13:05 – Ray says agents have a moral obligation to sellers to produce the best result—if people are hesitant about the procedure of an auction, it’s probably not considered the best option
• 13:50 – Leigh thinks auctioning could possibly be the answer for the current real estate problem in Charlotte as there are multiple buyers bidding for one property
• 14:27 – Ray says not everybody has the ability to educate sellers and buyers
• 14:55 – Harcourt’s work in California might be a good indication of the future of auctions
• 15:26 – Consumers do want innovation
• 16:05 – Locked On is a CRM and a cloud-based software that helps you communicate with your clients
• 17:07 – Contact Ray at his email and check out his podcast
• 17:43 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. Auctions can be valuable for both buyers and sellers—especially when it comes to having multiple, competing offers.
2. There is a need to educate consumers about how to do auctions for real estate.
3. Agents have to put the best interest of their clients, first and foremost.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

When Shannon’s gut told her that something was off with a certain house, she couldn’t have been more right. A homeowner who illegally smuggles family relatives into the country to essentially work without pay is not someone you’d like to buy a home from. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Shannon Brien who has been in real estate for almost 4 years. She is a realtor with The Douglas Realty for Coldwell Banker HPW in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:40 – Leigh introduces Shannon
• 01:10 – Shannon has been in real estate for almost 4 years and is based in Raleigh, North Carolina
• 01:40 – Shannon explains the triangle of North Carolina
• 02:54 – Shannon starts with her crazy story
  • 03:01 – Shannon’s attorney, Duane Hall, had a paralegal who wanted to buy a house
  • 03:24 – They sold Kelly’s house and got it out of contract
  • 03:31 – Shannon had scheduling issues so a colleague booked Kelly’s first viewing—Shannon hadn’t even seen the house yet
  • 03:53 – The house was a rental property and needed to have some repairs done
  • 04:11 – Kelly looked into the company who owns the house
  • 04:21 – The man who owns most of the properties had gotten into trouble
  • 04:31 – This man was illegally bringing in relatives to the states, making them work at his kiosks, and was not paying them in cash
  • 05:05 – Shannon immediately terminated the contract
  • 05:12 – Two weeks later, the property was seized by the Feds
  • 05:20 – Shannon and Kelly looked into another house
  • 05:27 – There were renters in the house and there was drug paraphernalia everywhere—the house was also trashed
  • 06:20 – Shannon and the Kelly felt they could “roll with it” and fix it up
  • 06:48 – They had their final walkthrough
  • 07:19 – Shannon found out that the tenants were the sellers’ relatives
  • 07:26 – The family pulled together to get the house cleaned up and sorted for the sale
• 08:18 – Shannon had a great relationships with the agent on the other side
• 09:24 – Shannon shares what she likes about the women council
• 10:14 – When you volunteer and get involved, there’s a huge payoff for you and your client
• 10:45 – Shannon shares how she reacted seeing the drugs with her client
• 12:14 – Shannon can be reached through social media
• 12:18 – Reach Shannon at 919-909-8335 and through email
• 13:13 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Trust your gut—it is there for a reason.
2. When you volunteer and get involved, there’s a huge payoff for you and your client.
3. Know your local legislators and be aware on how they can help your local real estate concerns.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Foreclosure properties can cause a lot of headaches for the average home buyer, but for an investor? That all depends. Bill Hamberg shares his crazy story entering a “Winter Wonderland” house as excessive water damage was actually forming icicles.  He also offers realtors and investors first hand advice regarding investing in a foreclosure home. Leigh welcomes Bill Hamberg, who has been in real estate for 13 years and is an investor/agent in Philadelphia. 

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:38 – Leigh introduces Bill
• 00:53 – Bill and his wife are in their 13th year in real estate
  • 01:05 – For the past 11+ years, they’ve been in the REO side
• 02:12 – Bill shares his story of the most recent crazy thing he experienced
  • 02:28 – The general public doesn’t understand what a foreclosure is
  • 02:47 – Bill had an assignment in Levittown, Pennsylvania
  • 03:50 – When Bill visited the property, no one answered the door, but the windows were open
  • 04:17 – Bill climbed through the window to make sure that the property was safe
  • 04:38 – When Bill got inside, there was a water leaking from the second floor to the first floor
  • 05:00 – Bill took a video of the water damage
  • 05:24 – Most properties in Pennsylvania have basements
  • 05:34 – The water was just accumulating on the first floor
  • 06:20 – As Bill walked into the bedrooms, it looked like a winter wonderland as the water that was leaking turned to icicles
  • 06:48 – Leigh asked Bill about fungal growth
  • 08:03 – When Bill called the water company, already 168K gallons had been used
  • 08:35 – Bill shares what will happen with the water bill
  • 09:26 – The house needs to be stripped down completely because of the fungal growth
  • 10:25 – In Pennsylvania, banks are not allowed to disclose too much information
  • 10:42 – Bill understands that consumers need to ask about the issues with the home
  • 11:40 – Bill shares about the mortgage and the foreclosure of the house
  • 12:19 – The banks are also repairing the house
  • 12:44 – Bill’s opinion regarding selling the property as is
  • 13:42 – There are good and bad investors
  • 14:27 – Bill had an investor for the Levittown house who eventually transformed the house
• 15:20 – Bill shares his advice in regards to purchasing a foreclosure home
  • 15:25 – If you’re an investor, you really need to find an investor/real estate agent
  • 17:25 – Bill prefers a quick resale value (QRV) over pursuing the after repair value (ARV)
  • 18:51 – When you’re bidding on a foreclosure property, you’re bidding against other investors and not the bank
  • 20:00 – You have to set good criteria
  • 20:58 – Set a price that will attract lots of activity
• 22:15 – Realtors who want to get into the investor side of real estate need to do their research
• 22:57 – If you’re an investor, the first question to ask a real estate agent is, “If I purchase this property how should I cost segregate it?”
  • 23:38 – Go to someone who knows what they’re doing
• 23:43 – Take extra classes and find a mentor to be a proficient investor/real estate agent
• 24:15 – What Bill loves about foreclosure homes is that there are no emotions tied to the property and everything is just about numbers
• 24:53 – Reach Bill through his email at bhamberg@pahouselink.com and google “Bill Hamberg”—Bill is on the top 3 results
• 26:35 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. Being an investor/real estate agent requires thorough study and research to be able to serve your clientele well.
2. An advantage of investing in foreclosure homes is that you’re dealing solely with the numbers—not the emotions.
3. House pricing won’t always depend on ARV—consider all your factors before sealing a deal.

Natural calamities happen when we least expect them to and for Lumberton, North Carolina, it happened in October of 2016. David was one of those who responded to the call to help those who were affected by the hurricane. Until now, they are still in need of help. In this episode, Leigh welcomes David Zeits who has been in real estate for almost 15 years. He is an agent for Coldwell Banker Premier Team Realty in Lumberton, North Carolina.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:38 – Leigh introduces David
• 01:13 – David is from Lumberton, Southeast of North Carolina
• 01:33 – Lumberton is still recovering from the hurricane
• 01:49 – David has been a real estate broker for almost 15 years
• 02:29 – David shares his story which happened when he was just starting in real estate
  • 02:37 – David had a call from a lady in Radcliff, Kentucky
  • 02:51 – The lady was calling in regards to her inherited property; she suspected someone was squatting in the house
  • 03:18 – David visited the property and when he knocked, someone answered him
  • 03:36 – David was greeted by a man
  • 04:00 – David asked the man how he was able to live in the house
  • 04:13 – David told the man that he needed to go because he needed to sell the house
  • 04:30 – David said this was the craziest thing he’s seen and he’s been chased by a turkey, at a different listing
    • 06:06 – David has been chased by all sorts of animals
  • 06:18 – The buyer was not with David when he visited the house
  • 06:59 – This is one of the reasons why consumers should use realtors
  • 07:47 – “I sell service”
• 08:22 – Leigh asks David about how he copes with those who have dealt with the hurricane
  • 08:52 – David didn’t have any idea of the hurricane’s magnitude
  • 09:11 – David thought that it was just a storm that would pass the next day
  • 09:21 – The reports were coming in about the river reaching an all-time high
  • 09:37 – The levee didn’t break the water
  • 10:05 – One of David’s friends had a river flowing through his house
  • 10:23 – One of David’s rental properties was flooded
  • 10:50 – To realtors, we are our own business
  • 11:31 – David has properties in other areas
  • 11:52 – David thinks they’ve taken water for granted
  • 12:30 – Wendy Harris is a big help for Lumberton
• 13:05 – Realtors need to look for opportunities to help each other
• 13:16 – To consumers, when you hire one realtor, the whole association is backing you
• 14:25 – The realtor’s commitment to the community
• 14:48 – Leigh shares why she’s proud to be a realtor
• 15:48 – Realtors can participate in a realtor relief fund which is an outreach program that protects realtors and communities
• 16:26 – David is available at 401 E. 11th St., Lumberton, North Carolina 28358, through his phone at 910-536-4663, website and email
• 17:59 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Realtors should always support their local community.
2. When a consumer hires you, you are providing them a SERVICE.
3. There’s a symbiotic relationship between the community and real estate associations.

Natural disasters happen when you least expect it and having insurance can alleviate an enormous amount of stress when it comes to recovering what you’ve lost. Katy’s client never thought he would ever need insurance and was concerned that he’d have to accept a lowball offer on his flood-stricken house. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Katy Caldwell who has been in real estate for almost 11 years. She is an agent for Remax in the Baton Rouge area of Louisiana.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:40 – Leigh introduces Katy
• 00:59 – Katy has been a realtor for 11 years and is from Baton Rouge, Louisiana
  • 01:09 – Katy does anything residential
• 02:13 – Katy shares her story starting with a big flood, in 2016
  • 02:19 – 110K homes were affected and most of them did not have flood insurance
  • 02:50 – There was 30 inches of rain in 48 hours
  • 03:00 – There are over a million people in the metro area of Baton Rouge
  • 03:43 – Some homeowners have never had flood insurance, even if they live in a flood hazard area
  • 04:07 – Some elderly owners dropped their insurance because there had been no floods
  • 04:23 – A 78-year old seller purchased the house with his mom
  • 04:40 – The seller never had insurance and got 3 feet of water in his home
  • 05:31 – Some volunteers helped him with the damage
  • 05:42 – The house was gutted, but not treated for mold
  • 05:58 – The seller continued to live in his house while it was molding and he did not have an AC
  • 06:30 – The seller’s friend made contact with Kate about an investor
  • 06:37 – The market had been flooded with investors wanting to take advantage of these damaged homes
  • 07:20 – The investor offered the elderly person $75K for the house, but the seller declined
  • 07:42 – Katy shares how much the house would have normally cost in a normal market
  • 09:48 – The seller decided that Katy would list the house, instead
  • 10:40 – The house was listed on December 22nd for $125K
  • 11:48 – The seller did not believe the house could sell for $125K
  • 11:52 – There was multiple offers after a few days
  • 12:17 – Katy went to the property with the buyer who had memories of the house as a kid
  • 12:53 – The day before closing, the seller still couldn’t believe that the house was going to sell
  • 13:22 – The seller asked Katy if they can take pictures of the house and was getting very emotional about the sale
  • 14:05 – Katy told the seller about the buyer to cheer him up
  • 14:36 – The seller was thinking that the buyer wouldn’t actually show up on closing day
  • 15:21 – On closing day, the buyer really bought the house
• 16:17 – Leigh was really surprised about the investors flooding in
• 17:34 – Leigh shares how she feels about investors
• 18:13 – Real estate is not a game
• 18:27 – There are realtors who make assumptions about their client
• 19:37 – Having flood insurance is a legislative issue now
• 19:51 – Realtors have been doing a lot of political work about a flood insurance program
• 20:07 – For realtors, contact Leigh to find out about the re-authorization of the flood insurance program
• 20:15 – For consumers, make sure to have a realtor who is aware of what’s happening in the political arena and is fighting for you
• 20:53 – Katy’s pet peeve
• 21:33 – For sellers, don’t be comfortable until everything’s done
• 22:53 – Reach Katy through her phone at 225-241-4113 and email at remax@gmail.com
• 23:09 – Katy’s website is com
• 23:59 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Get a realtor who will not only protect you, but all things regarding your house as well.
2. As a realtor, be fair and give an honest price for a property.
3. Investors should not take advantage of calamity-stricken areas.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Greeted by a man in his boxers, a woman in bed, and the smell of marijuana in the air is not a great way to make an impression at a house viewing. It’s actually a great reason for prospective clients to pass on a house. Aurora Guiragossian discusses two unsettling real estate stories that express just how little control realtors can have on their day-to-day job. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Aurora Guiragossian, a realtor for Heller Coley Reed of Long & Foster Real Estate in the DC, Metro Area.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience. 

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:40 – Leigh introduces Aurora
• 01:28 – Aurora is from downtown, Maryland
• 03:05 – Aurora has 2 crazy stories
• 03:08 – Years ago, Aurora showed a house to a couple
  • 03:22 – A deal is not always a deal because there can always be a catch
  • 03:31 – The property was only walking distance from the metro station
  • 03:40 – When Aurora got there, the listing agent told them it’s okay to have the showing
  • 03:45 – A man in his boxers opened the door and let them in
  • 04:00 – The place looked like a college, fraternity house
  • 04:40 – The property was occupied by a renter
  • 05:00 – Aurora opened a bedroom door and there was a woman on the bed, staring at them
  • 05:20 – Aurora went to another room and there was a bong with a smell of marijuana
  • 06:15 – Aurora’s client passed on the house and chose another house, instead
• 06:54 – Aurora’s next story was a bit scary for her
  • 07:00 – Aurora was listing a friend’s house for rent
  • 07:39 – Aurora had 2 separate clients that wanted to see the house
  • 07:50 – Aurora brings a weapon for self-defense when she needs to go alone
  • 08:29 – One couple comes through to meet Aurora and see the place
  • 08:39 – Another group comes through the house, but a person who was a neighbor was hanging around
  • 08:46 – This neighbor said he sent the couple to Aurora because they were lost
  • 08:50 – This neighbor started following Aurora as she was closing up the house—he was on her heels and talking fast and Aurora began to feel alarmed
  • 09:10 – The neighbor asked for a commission for sending Aurora the couple
  • 09:36 – Aurora now is holding her keys in one hand and mace in the other hand as the person kept on following her
  • 10:10 – The person tried to knock on Aurora’s car window and was pushing her to pay $10, but she drove off
  • 10:46 – Aurora didn’t pay the person any fees
  • 10:58 – Aurora contacted her friend and told her about the neighbor who asked for a commission
• 11:35 – Unfortunately, realtors can’t control the neighbors
• 12:20 – Leigh shares an important note from Aurora’s experiences
  • 12:33 – For homeowners, it’s not the realtor’s fault if your house won’t sell because of the current tenants
  • 12:51 – All realtors should carry something to defend themselves
  • 13:27 – “Any realtors who are defending themselves is a wonderful thing”
• 13:40 – Aurora is taking shooting lessons soon
• 14:20 – Aurora’s goal
• 14:30 – Leigh shares about the realtors who carry their CRs
• 15:20 – Reach Aurora by phone at 301-379-6645, Twitter and Instagram
• 15:43 – Find Aurora on their team’s website and by email
• 17:02 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. It’s not a realtor’s fault that a house won’t sell because of its current tenants.
2. Realtors should always carry something or know how to defend themselves.
3. Having a strange neighbor is an uncontrollable event for a realtor, but homeowners should always provide a warning.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Taking the leap from a part-time to full-time realtor isn’t an easy decision. However, for Patti, a decision had to be made and she hasn’t looked back since. In this episode, Leigh welcomes Patti Sherwood, a realtor from Charlestown, West Virginia who just started in the industry 4 years ago.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:45 – Leigh introduces Patti
• 01:04 – Patti is from Charlestown, West Virginia
  • 01:22 – Patti has been licensed in West Virginia for 4 years now
  • 01:40 – Patti thought she would’ve gone full-time earlier, but it was a leap of faith to do so
• 03:06 – Patti shares the first positive, but crazy thing that happened to her
  • 03:20 – Patti had a call from a buyer relocating to West Virginia
  • 03:35 – The woman learned about Patti from a local real estate magazine and she thought Patti looked friendly and easy to deal with
  • 03:54 – Patti was taken aback and considered this a positive thing
  • 04:11 – They had a smooth transaction
• 04:31 – Many realtors underestimate the power of their photographs
• 05:05 – Patti was shocked by the amount of realtors that did NOT look like their photographs
• 05:48 – Patti thinks that most crazy things in real estate come from the realtors
• 07:10 – Patti finds technology challenging
• 07:24 – Patti discusses her views on how realtors treat their clients
  • 08:13 – Some realtors are active online, but don’t always answer inquiries or calls
  • 08:20 – Realtors should have a common etiquette and basic, customer service practices
• 08:58 – Patti shares some advice to realtors:
  • 09:04 – “If you’re called to this business, then you will be successful—unless you get in your own way”
  • 09:26 – Make sure you have your support network in place when taking that leap into real estate
  • 09:38 – Whatever you do, it impacts your reputation
• 10:06 – “Don’t despise the small things”
• 10:29 – Leigh shares advice to the consumers
• 11:02 – Find Patti on her website and by email
• 12:00 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Taking that leap into real estate is easier when you have your support network behind you.
2. Consumers are expecting to meet the realtors that they see in the photographs.
3. Be mindful of what you do because you only have one name, brand, and reputation.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

In this episode, Leigh interviews Tracey Hicks, a realtor and co-owner of All Things Real Estate Store. Realtors are indeed entrepreneurs, but Tracey’s story and career shows you that there are a lot more opportunities out there than just listing and selling homes in real estate. Tune in to see how Tracey turned drab real estate signage into a business opportunity. 

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience. 

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:44 – Leigh introduces Tracey Hicks
• 01:03 – Tracey is located in Portland, Oregon and she’s co-owner of All Things Real Estate Store
• 01:19 – Tracey’s store sells marketing products, signs, and etc
• 01:48 – Tracey founded this store because she was tired of the ugly and boring real-estate supplies available
• 03:01 – Tracey has been in real estate for 12 years before she founded her business and she still owns 50% of a brokerage, to this point
• 03:12 - She’s still licensed, but is non-practicing since last year
• 03:24 – Realtors are now her clients
• 05:56 – Tracey transitioned from a realtor to a business owner
  • 06:39 – Tracey always says realtors are different breeds
  • 07:34 – Yard signs are the 2nd most important thing that gets noticed by consumers
  • 08:49 – Tracey’s customers are a mix of both baby boomers and millennials
  • 09:12 – The older clientele are as excited as the younger realtors
  • 10:32 – Tracey’s stories are now about realtors
• 11:11 – Tracey’s latest crazy story was from a woman on the East Coast
  • 11:14 – The woman ordered a flyer box and was upset that the posts didn’t come with it
  • 11:56 – Tracey deals with realtors all across the US
  • 13:49 – Realtor is a trade name that can’t be used for free
  • 14:13 – The use of Realtor would cost Tracey $15K upfront and 15% of everything she sells
  • 15:27 – Tracey is also trademarking something now
  • 16:16 – Tracey wants people to be inspired – not to copy ideas
  • 16:50 – They got in trouble for a domain they bought on GoDaddy which was “realtorcarkits”
• 17:37 – Another story comes from the doggy t-shirts they were selling
  • 17:48 – A woman bought a size small t-shirt for her labrador
  • 18:07 – The woman called and was upset because she got the wrong size
  • 18:35 – Tracey’s stories are not as fun as they used to be, but she’s totally okay with that
• 18:56 – Start branding yourself
• 19:16 – When a client chooses you to work for them, they’re working with YOU, not just because of the company or what you sell
• 20:57 – Being a brand makes you stand out
• 22:45 – Regular consumers also buy from Tracey’s store
• 23:12 – Connect with Trace on All Things Real Estate Store or on Facebook and Instagram
• 24:20 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. Being a realtor can open up a whole new world of opportunity for you.
2. Finding the need and niching down can be the gateway to a new market.
3. Work on your brand and remember that people are choosing YOU, not just your company or product.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

In this episode, Leigh interviews Nicole Solari, a realtor from Napa Valley, California who has made a remarkable record selling 191 real estate units in just 1 year. Listen as Nicole shares two nerve-wracking experiences with the same house—she discovers the house’s dark past and not-so-bright future, as she had to shoo away a hooker and her client out of the house during a showing.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:27 – Leigh introduces Nicole Solari
• 00:50 – Nicole is a Boston qualifier
• 01:04 – She has been in real estate for 3 years
• 01:08 – Nicole is based in Napa Valley, in California
• 01:30 – She sold 191 units last year amounting to $68M in sales
• 01:44 – The average realtor sells 10 houses in a year
• 02:49 – This story is the most shocking one in Nicole’s career:
  • 03:00 – One of Nicole’s very first listings was a home that hadn’t been occupied for a while
  • 03:14 – One day while she was there a neighbor came over to tell her the house’s story
  • 03:39 – The neighbor said the home was owned by a gentleman who took care of the elderly
  • 03:45 – As soon as the elderly check in, they never check out
  • 03:53 – Neighbor claims that the elderly people get murdered, chopped and hidden underneath the house
  • 04:02 – They found 6 bodies, 10 years later, and the mass murderer is now in jail
  • 04:14 – Nicole Googled about it to be sure – lo and behold, the claims were true
  • 04:28 –She wasn’t surprised of the house’s history as Nicole felt something was weird in that house
  • 04:44 – She received a call from a couple and showed the house
  • 05:01 – She opened the house and turned on the light – there was a pink book bag down the hallway
  • 05:09 – She heard noises but continued to go up the master’s bedroom
  • 05:14 – She saw a hooker on the floor with a man in the corner, smoking
  • 05:28 – Nicole walked out immediately and yelled that she would call the police
  • 05:33 – They didn’t leave
  • 05:45 – 45 mins later, Police knocked and they didn’t come out
  • 06:01 – K9s were released
  • 06:15 – The hooker and the old man came running out – buttnaked
  • 06:30 – Police chased them
  • 06:40 – Finally the police woman tackles them, holds out her gun and says, “Give me a reason to shoot you, I’m on my period!”
  • 06:55 – It was the most hilarious thing for Nicole
• 08:22 – Nicole now researches about the houses before she lists them
• 09:25 – Connect with Nicole at 707-486-5400 or on Instagram and Twitter
• 09:40 – Email her at nicole@solariteam.com
• 10:14 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate 

3 Key Points

1. Being in real estate for a short time does not necessarily mean you’re less experienced.
2. Always do a background check first about the homes you’re about to list.
3. Follow your intuition—it’s there for a purpose and oftentimes, it never hurts to do your due diligence.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

In this episode, Leigh interviews Joe Battisto, an NYS licensed property inspector from Syracuse who works for Haven Environmental. Joe founded Haven Environmental in 2015, and they’re trying to raise the bar for home inspection. Listen to Joe’s advice as an expert in the field and hear how he rescued a couple from buying a problematic house that was a far cry from what was shown in photos.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Joe Battisto
President
Haven Environmental
www.havenenvironmental.com

Up here in Central New York I did one last week I had to post on the company Facebook page.   The homeowner started using cardboard boxes as HVAC duct work after his metal ducts starting rotting away.  Then he used old bed rails as structural support posts to hold up the floor from falling into the basement.   He was asking low 6 figures for the hot mess.  The prospective buyers were making an offer based on the online photos from the real estate advertisement without ever actually seeing the property in person.  Bad idea, at least they called a home inspector to put eyes on it before sealing the deal!

If you check our site, you will see we are trying to raise the bar for home inspection by adding capabilities most one man operators don't have:

• We are a licensed firm in NYS to provide mold assessments.
• We have a highly experienced Certified Industrial Hygienist on staff.
• Our principal IAQ inspector Is certified by the IICRC, NORMI, OSHA, and NACHI.
• We are certified for thermal imaging analysis.
• We are licensed in NYS to provide buyer/bank property inspection for real estate transactions on properties up to 4 units.
• We are FAA commercial certified to fly camera drones for high resolution roof inspections.
• We are experienced and formally trained to provide contractor estimates for mold and water damage restoration.
• We are trained and experienced in providing property insurance underwriting inspections.
• We can provide asbestos, radon, and lead testing.
• In addition to general liability and an attestation of worker’s compensation exemption filed with NYS, we carry professional liability and errors and omissions insurance on all our projects.
• We oversee an extensive network of reliable mold and water damage sub - contractors across upstate NY.
• We use 2 of the most highly respected microbial laboratory firms in the country for our lab work.

Realtors tell me 50% of the homes they list have mold issues, so we try to guide buyers, sellers, and agents all the way through that mess and keep the closing on track.

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:49 – Leigh introduces Joe Battisto
• 00:58 – Joe is from Syracuse, NY
  • 01:06 – Joe is from Haven Environmental and they provide buyers’ inspection services for real estate transactions
• 01:21 – In real estate, the inspection process is sometimes the most uncomfortable part of the transaction
• 01:55 – The moral of the story is never ever buy a property that you haven’t physically walked through yourself
• 02:07 – A few weeks ago, Joe received a call from a couple who wanted to buy a house
  • 02:15 – It is a 2-storey house and Joe was asked to do the inspection
  • 02:33 – When Joe was inspecting the property, things began to cramp up
  • 02:44 – Joe describes the structure of the house
  • 03:06 – Joe went to the basement and saw that the metal brackets that held up the first floor were cracking and slipping
  • 03:15 – Old bed rails was used as structural support posts to hold up the floor from falling into the basement
  • 04:06 – The homeowner repurposed cardboard boxes as HVAC duct work after his metal ducts started rotting away
  • 04:48 – On Joe’s way out of the basement, he saw another major problem with plumbing
  • 05:30 – Joe sent the report to the buyer and he learned that the couple haven’t even been in the house
  • 06:02 – The couple only saw the listing online and were buying it from Europe
  • 06:40 – Joe became the buying agent
  • 07:10 – The listing agent put up photos of the house which looked really good
  • 07:26 – Joe had a serious talk with the buyer and the buyer thought that they wouldn’t need to put much money into the house
• 08:02 – The couple found Joe online
• 09:30 – When having a talk with your home inspector, match your needs to your home inspector’s qualifications and be comfortable with what he is going to do
• 09:55 – Ask for a copy of the report done by your home inspector to get an idea of how he does the inspection
• 10:52 – Joe sees himself more as a partner than a vendor
• 11:00 – Regarding how realtors should select their home inspector partner, Joe advises…
  • 11:17 – Realtors control 80% of the home inspector’s work
  • 11:32 – “Realtors should be qualifying those home inspectors as well”
• 11:52 – The past week, Haven Environmental was approved by the New York State to provide continuing education instruction for realtors in their area of Syracuse, NY
• 12:20 – Find Joe on their website which links to their Facebook
• 13:01 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. In real estate, the inspection process may be the most uncomfortable part of the transaction, but is also necessary. .
2. Never buy a property that you haven’t physically walked through yourself.
3. Try to match your needs to your home inspector’s qualifications, so you can be aligned and comfortable with how they choose to do their job.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

In this episode, Leigh interviews Kristina Rhodes, a realtor from Indiana who works for FC Tucker Emge. Kristina has been in real estate for 17 years and, at the same time, has volunteered for Make a Wish. Listen to find out how realtors are making the effort to help their communities while hustling in the world of real estate. Kristina also shares how being a volunteer to Make a Wish has impacted Kristina’s real estate brand, career, and life.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience. 

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:34 – Leigh introduces Kristina Rhodes
• 00:58 – Kristina works for FC Tucker Emge, in Indiana, and has been in real estate for 17 years
• 01:46 – Kristina contacted Leigh to share about the Good Neighbor Program
  • 01:53 – The program is exclusively for realtors
  • 02:00 – Every year, 5 out of 1M realtors are chosen to be awarded
  • 02:07 – The award is reserved for realtors who do good for their community
  • 02:17 – Some Good Neighbor nominees go to Africa to give clean water to villages
  • 02:25 – There are also realtors supporting veterans, homeless, and those who need help
  • 02:42 – Some realtors fight for rights and awareness
  • 03:01 – There is not enough positive press out there about realtors
  • 03:28 – The Good Neighbors Society work all year long
  • 03:48 – Kristina has been a volunteer for Make a Wish for 17 years
  • 04:32 – Kristina talks about how Make a Wish impacted her brand in real estate
  • 05:20 – When Kristina first became a volunteer, she didn’t know what to expect
  • 05:29 – In 17 years, each child that they serve teaches Kristina something
  • 07:08 – Kristina simply wants to spread the message that realtors are not just realtors, they do more than just real estate
  • 07:23 – There are so many realtors out there doing something good
  • 07:40 – Leigh is promoting #MoreThanHouses
• 08:59 – Connect with Kristina at 812-305-3914
• 09:06 – If you know a realtor who is making an impact in society, you can contact Kristina
• 09:13 – Realtors who want to learn more about Good Neighbor and Volunteering Works, Kristina will connect you
• 09:24 – The National Association of Realtors has grants available to support realtors with their projects
• 10:29 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. Realtors need to be recognized not only for their work, but for how they are making a difference in this world, too.
2. Many realtors help several causes, charities, and local needs in a variety of ways.
3. The National Association of Realtors provide grants that can help realtors with their projects – all you need to do is inquire about it.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

Whenever a scheduled closing does not work out, make sure you understand why. What spooked the buyer? What made them delay or change their mind? In Tricia’s case, perhaps it was the basement flooded with oil or the potential run-in with a murderer...

In this episode, Leigh interviews Tricia Beam, a realtor from Jersey Shore who works for Coldwell Banker Homes and has 20 years of experience in the business. Tune in as she shares her crazy story that explains the importance of doing your due diligence with your future clients and their homes.

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes:

• 00:22 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:36 – Leigh introduces Tricia Beam
• 00:45 – Tricia comes from the Jersey Shore
• 00:56 – Tricia covers most parts of Jersey Shore and has been in real estate for 20 years
• 01:41 – Tricia’s story has to do with walkthroughs
  • 01:49 – She had a listing in a town near her office
  • 01:53 – She had a listing on a vacant home
  • 01:55 – She didn’t really know the owners, but she met them a few years back
  • 02:00 – The sellers had a family member that was buying the home from them
  • 02:09 – The owner held onto the mortgage and payments weren’t being made
  • 02:14 – They got the family member to move out of the house
  • 02:19 – A year later, Tricia received a call asking for a meet-up
  • 02:25 – She went to meet the family and the house was vacant
  • 02:31 – They listed and sold the house right away
  • 02:34 – They wanted to close on Friday
  • 02:39 – The selling agent did a walkthrough
  • 02:45 – The buyer had issues, so they rescheduled to close on Monday afternoon
  • 02:57 – Tricia didn’t come to the closing
  • 03:03 – After closing, she got a call from the agent saying the whole basement was flooded with oil, there was also a problem in the bathroom upstairs, and somebody broke the window to get in
  • 03:54 – Tricia didn’t know what to do
  • 03:58 – Her manager told her that the fault was with the selling agent who didn’t make another walkthrough
  • 04:08 – In every closing that doesn’t actually close, there should be another walkthrough
  • 04:49 – A few days later the selling agent called again to ask if Tricia read the news
  • 05:05 – They found out that the relative who lived in the house was charged with murder for dismembering a body and putting it in a fridge in Florida
  • 05:41 – The relative was just caught
  • 05:50 – The selling agent thought it might be him who broke into the house
• 06:55 – Tricia was a bit resentful because the family didn’t even warn her about their relative
• 07:37 – The family knew about the issues without warning their realtors
• 09:25 – Look after your own safety
• 10:18 – If you’re looking for a realtor in the Jersey Shore, get in touch with Tricia
• 10:32 – Connect with Tricia through phone at 732-766-2985
• 10:37 – She works for Coldwell Banker Residential
• 11:25 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. It pays to check and double check – make sure you are diligent in your walkthroughs.
2. When a closing isn’t successful, make sure you understand what went wrong.
3. Do your best as realtors to be aware and cautious of anything that may be suspicious.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music

In this episode, Leigh welcomes Pam Gebhardt to the show. Pam is a realtor in the Atlanta area and has been in the real estate industry for more than 26 years. Her crazy story describes a kind deed that went terribly wrong and is, indeed, a tragedy! Listen to hear why Pam no longer gives housewarming parties as a congratulatory gift to  her clients.  

Please subscribe to this podcast in iTunes or in the Podcasts App on your phone. Never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting The Leigh Brown Experience.

Time Stamped Show Notes: 

• 00:21 – Introduction for today’s episode
• 00:36 – Introducing Pam Gebhardt
• 00:54 – Pam was trained in Education with a master’s degree in Mathematics
• 01:01 – It’s her 26th year now, as a realtor in Atlanta
• 01:58 – This is a true and crazy story
  • 02:12 – Pam lives in a gated golf course community
  • 02:17 – She sells and lists homes around the area
  • 02:21 – When Pam sells a luxury home, she throws a housewarming party for the clients
  • 02:37 – She sold a $2.8M brand new home to friends in her community
  • 02:48 – They closed in July, but her clients didn’t want to do the party until they had all the furniture in the house
  • 02:58 – They called Pam in mid-October for the party
  • 03:03 – They had the caterers and 140 guests ready
  • 03:27 – People were in the house – it was full
  • 03:35 – Pam and the owner were in the basement, in the home theater and bar
  • 03:49 – All of a sudden, Pam and her client noticed a smell – which they thought were people going up and down the elevator
  • 04:10 – Pam suggested to her client to get people off the elevator, which he did
  • 04:21 – They started to see smoke coming out of the cam lights
  • 04:27 – 5 minutes later, all the alarms went off in the house
  • 04:35 – Finally, they decided to go outside
  • 04:50 – There were flames shooting out of the fireplace
  • 05:06 – A person came up and told them to go in front of the house – somebody called the fire department
  • 05:18 – Everybody thought is was funny
  • 05:36 – The firemen advised them to take the cars out of the garage and remove all jewelry from the house
  • 05:51 – People were having fun outside
  • 05:58 – The firemen went up the house with a ladder
  • 06:27 – All of a sudden, all the firemen came running out of the house
  • 06:30 – All 120 guests were outside and they watched the house burn to the ground
  • 06:46 – Her clients lost everything! Fortunately, their old house was not sold and was still furnished
  • 06:58 – The client moved back to their old house and Pam recommended a reputable builder for them
  • 07:14 – Long story short, there was a defective fireplace
  • 07:19 – Pam makes sure that inspection amendments are being chased properly
• 07:34 – Once the attic is in flames, there’s nothing that can save the house
• 07:47 – The incident bothered Pam and the people in the community
• 08:20 – The insurance company reimbursed the money
• 08:49 – The clients were back in the house in a year and 21 days after the fire
• 09:33 – The insurance company sued the fireplace company
• 10:13 – It took Pam at least 2 years before she could talk about it
• 10:30 – Her client’s father was a fire chief in another city, so he understood the gravity of what happened
• 10:44 – The buyers now ended up with a much better home than they originally had
• 12:03 – Pam’s clients made “lemonade out of lemons”
• 12:32 – Pam now gives paintings instead of housewarming parties
• 13:17 – Pam has a team of 3 and is located north-northeast of Atlanta
• 13:30 – Contact Pam on her email
• 13:50 – Tweet Leigh Brown for your very own crazy story in real estate

3 Key Points

1. It pays to check, cross check, and triple check the quality of the house you’re buying.
2. It’s normal to feel guilty for something bad that happens to the house you sold, even if it’s not your fault.
3. Make sure to have a great home insurance for your home.

Credits

• Audio Production by Chris Mottram
• Show Notes provided by Mallard Creatives
• Cover Design by Two Minds Design
• Original Music by Rimsky Music