Recently while attending a real estate class I was asked the question “Who are You”. Sounds like a smiple question to answer but the more I thought about it the harder the answer really was. Knowing who you are is such am important thing to how you do things.. say things ..want things..need things..and right now in my life that question of “who am I’ really is changing. Right now for me at least there is no greater proof of faith than community. Maybe you think I am selling out but I have come to the conclusion that I need people. I am learning again who I am by the context of others. The more isolated I become the more distorted my idenity is to me. I am not healthy when I am alone. I find comfort is connecting with others. Without my community I would be lost. Sometimes the most irrational things I do are in response to my pursuit of my identity or in some cases my lack of identity. Who I understand my self to be is affected for better or worse by those I hold closest to me.
One of the exercises in the class made us come up with a USP. There will be alot of you readers out there that will know what this is but some of you will not. This is a statement which when I am asked “why me”I have a well thoughtout response to that question. Now everyone of us will have a different answer for that but for now this is what I am going to use ” I am a well educated seasoned full time accountable agent that is totally engaged within my industry and community” I think that sounds like me.
I am going to take it and roll with it. What a great class taught by someone who does care “who I am”
Having posted this article I have had numerous responses that reafirm that my thinking was correct. I have recently built a few personal recommendation together so you the reader see what my past clients and friends say about who I am.
March 2, 2009
To Whom It May Concern:
Reference: Referral for Marvin Strong
We worked with Marvin to find our little piece of Minnesota heaven. Our journey began several years ago, looking and searching internet sites for what we would narrow in on. We are a family of four, and both working demanding full time jobs. Our family lives by the motto “Work hard to play even harder”.
David and I have two small boys Collin, who is 4 and Carter, who is 3. Growing up in Minnesota we knew from the day we married a cabin was a priority for our family. Once we were able to narrow our criteria we found a beautiful log cabin in wonderful Aitkin MN. We tried several times to set up a showing, with no return calls.
Marvin was in the right place at the right time for us. The listing company apparently had plenty of good clients keeping them too busy, and we stumbled into Marvin, who didn’t question our “intent to purchase”. After a sour taste from the prior company, Marvin surprised us in every way. Marvin was forever patient with our schedules and working around the times that would work for us. This alone is a task we should applaud him for. He set up showings for the entire day getting us a small chart to compare what we were viewing and what our money was going to get us on a lake. Through all of this in the middle of winter Marvin would search his files to find photos of the properties in summer to help us get a better idea of what lay beneath the many inches of snow. Marvin paid due diligence to every detail and worked hard to answer any questions we had. Again, deserving of another applaud as we had LOTS of questions.
Remember the log home we fell in love with? Well the sellers and agent were not willing to negotiate in the least, and there were several things needing immediate attention. This later turned out to be the biggest blessing we could have ever asked for.
Marvin resides and works in Brainerd MN just a hop and a skip from where we finally purchased our cabin, and his experience in the area was impressive to say the least we grew to rely on his opinion as we continued to weigh our options.
Marvin was extremely helpful on our negotiating tools and when the sellers wouldn’t budge he advised us well and we did not pursue further. Marvin turned this let down into a wonderful adventure to find an even better cabin for a much better price. We are now proud cabin owners on beautiful Lake Shamineau in Motley MN with a commute just far enough to feel like you’re actually “getting away from it all”.
To top it all off after the sale was complete we moved into the cabin to find there were some electrical issues. I went right to Marvin knowing he would be able to help. Or at least know someone in the area. Sure enough through is extensive experience in real estate and networking he knows everybody. Marvin had an electrician at our cabin the next day. The issue was a bit deeper than any of us expected, but Marvin stuck it through with us to the very end. I truly appreciate the above and beyond attitude Marvin has and that alone puts him leaps and bounds above anyone in his field.
We still keep in touch with Marvin and would recommend him to anyone looking for any type of property in the Brainerd and surrounding areas.
Thank you Marvin.
The Family,
David, Jaime, Collin and Carter.
: Marv did a wonderful job of helping my wife and I find the lake home we always wanted. His experience and
judgment made the difference in the negotiation and closing of our transaction; and his connections in the
local community have been a great help to us after closing. His wit and warm sense of humor
made a challenging process very enjoyable. Mike and Diane
Best regards, Mike
Duane Hendricks
(client)
Duane hired you as a Real Estate Agent in 2005 {1}
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert
“I have worked with Marvin on a large real estate transacation and was very happy with the way he treated my wife and I and the representated us through out the entire closing. Marvin is very knowledgeable, honest, does his research and is well prepared to make the transatcion a sucess. After our closing Marvin and I continue to talk and look at ideas and options for future investments. Duane” February 16, 2009
Steve Olson
, Executive Project Manager, Contract Initiation Services Manager, IBM Global Services (business partner)
was with another company when working with you
“Marvin Strong is the best prepared real estate agent I have talked to. His knowledge of the real estate industry, the area region business and attractions, and his desire to find the right solution are what makes him stand out above the rest. If you’re looking for a home or property in the Brainerd area, he is your best choice.” March 3, 2009
Dave Gooden
, Co-Founder, LakePlace.com (colleague)
worked directly with you
“I can’t say enough about Marv. Marv Strong is a forward thinking individual who understands the ins-and-outs of technology as it relates to the real estate industry. He is a hard working professional and a friend…and he has earned my highest recommendation.” March 4, 2009
Holly Connaker
, REALTOR, Positive Realty (colleague)
worked directly with you
“Marv is a true professional in his field. He always puts the needs of his customers first and is very willing to dig into a property to research the details. Marv’s character and honesty are second to none!” January 30, 2009
Andy Hayes
, Real Estate Agent, Positive Realty (colleague)
worked with you
“Marv is a great individual, both personally and professionally. He is very focused, and pays close attention to detail. I consider Marv to be a good friend, as well as a co-worker.” January 30, 2009
Sheila Holley
, Associate Broker, Edina Realty (colleague)
worked with you
“Marvin D. is honest! He will not tell you anything factual unless he is certain of the validity of his statements. He is very knowledgeable in the Real Estate field and always willing to share his knowledge and experience. He gives back to the Realtor community with his active particiapation as a member of the Greater Lakes Association of Realtors as a Director, technology chariperson and also through his classes as an instructor. Besides all of this – he is just a “good guy” with a great sense of humor and fun to work with.” January 30, 2009
Suz Pohl
, Administrative Assistant, Jamie Magness Real Estate Group – Keller Williams Realty (business partner)
was with another company when working with you
“Marv is always more than willing to help and offer his expertise – no matter the day, time or project! I highly respect and appreciate Marv! His attitude is superb and he is a great example of excellence!” January 30, 2009
, Advertising Account Executive, Charter Media (business partner)
was a consultant or contractor to you
“I have worked with Marv on projects promoting real estate in the Brainerd Lakes area and his attention to detail, knowledge of cutting-edge technology, relationships and love for the area show in all that he does. Marv is always great to work with!” February 2, 2009
Jamie Magness
, Realtor,GRI, Owner, Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes (business partner)
was with another company when working with you
“Marv is a dedicated and loyal person. He is passionate about his business and strives to excell. Marv is always keeping up to date with technology and is very helpful with any questions about it. I would recommend Marv.” February 8, 2009
Chuck Davis
(client)
Chuck hired you as a Real Estate Agent in 2000 and hired you more than once
Top qualities: Expert, High Integrity, Creative
“Marv started handling our construction companies real estate listings in 2000, with some spec homes, he also has helped us find real estate for our investments. I would highly recommend Marv to anyone looking to buy or sale real estate. He has a great nack for finding investment properties that are not listed and the man is a genius with technology.” February 12, 2009
Kristin Larsen
jpfhtxwtssj
57rh7P kjpclhhkicrq, [url=http://pdgciqkzrvwj.com/]pdgciqkzrvwj[/url], [link=http://tnhwnxwxrtba.com/]tnhwnxwxrtba[/link], http://xhcfjylcnfhv.com/
Rolando Mohl
You’re probably right then. Family guy has done much, much worse. What a great show!
Negotiation
thanks !! very helpful post!
a fast sale
Fascinating content. Was investigating this area via digg when I discovered your blog post. A considerable amount of remarkable written content on here. Certainly one for my personal favs. Frank
Carter Kipping
@John I totally agree with that point
Hana Lasanta
I’ve been here before but this is just about the best blogposts yet. keep it up!
cerita berahi
Got to love admn for this one. Perfect timing with the current press.
Keren Salsbury
Entirely agree with writer. At long last a blogger has the cojonies to say it like it is.
Kenneth Spivey
Awesome
Music News And Reviews
This is my first time I have visited this site. I found a lot of interesting information in your blog. From the volume of comments on your posts, I guess I am not the only one! keep up the great work.
Tales of Pirates Crusader Leveling Guide
I like when you talk about this type of stuff in your blog. Perhaps could you continue to do this?
Gwyneth Devere
Wonderful job! I will require a good amout of time to ponder the post!!
Tales of Pirates Crusader Leveling Guide
I love when you talk about this type of stuff in your blog. Perhaps could you continue this?
Ara Cayton
Hi I found your site by mistake when i was searching Google for this issue, I have to say your site is really helpful I also love the theme, its amazing!. I dont have that much time to read all your post at the moment but I have bookmarked it and also add your RSS feeds. I will be back in a day or two. thanks for a great site.
Ollie Overall
Cool and good, you can find actually some good points about this post some of my friends will dsicover this relevant, will send them a keyword rich link, many thanks. Fantatic site! Really good stuff here. Thanks
how to make solar panels
You made certain fine points here. I did a search on the subject matter and found a good number of folks will consent with your post.
Marlana Rhoney
Thank you, I’ve just been searching for information about this subject for ages and yours is the best I have discovered till now. But, what about the conclusion? Are you sure about the source?
Micheal Bergdoll
This is very interesting, You’re a very skilled blogger. I have joined your rss feed and look forward to seeking more of your magnificent post. Also, I’ve shared your site in my social networks!
Kathi Wegman
Can I just say what a relief to find somebody that actually knows what theyre talking about on the web. You certainly know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More and more people need to look at this and understand this side from the story. I cant believe youre not more popular because you definitely have the gift.
Paris Reseguide
i’ve begun to visit this site a few times now and i have to tell you that i find it quite nice actually. continue doing what you’re doing!
Lelah Claassen
This is actually unique, You’re a rather proficient article author. I’ve registered with your feed and furthermore , look ahead to enjoying your extraordinary write-ups. On top of that, We’ve shared your web blog of our own social networking sites.
Bruce Washinton
Just wanted to give you a shout from the valley of the sun, great information. Much appreciated.
Wallace Gillin
I like this blog very much so much good info .
Diane Vangerbig
I just wanted to comment and say that I really enjoyed reading your blog post here. It was very informative and I also digg the way you write! Keep it up and I’ll be back to read more in the future
Lester Geddie
Does your website have a contact page? I’m having problems locating it but, I’d like to shoot you an e-mail. I’ve got some suggestions for your blog you might be interested in hearing. Either way, great site and I look forward to seeing it develop over time.
Lory Wachs
This blog appears to get a great deal of visitors. How do you get traffic to it? It offers a nice unique twist on things. I guess having something authentic or substantial to talk about is the most important thing.
Tyler Eifert
Wohh just what I was searching for, regards for putting up.
Charlyn Ell
Fantastic website. A lot of useful information here. I¡¦m sending it to a few pals ans also sharing in delicious. And obviously, thanks for your effort!
Technology Crawl
Thank you for the info.. I think we must add you to our rss. Great work guys!
Greta Reyes
very good article?- however what / things I say?- I procrastinate alot and also by absolutely no implies appear to get something done.
Jimmie Barritt
Awesome article!
Lorine Doukas
I have found your website on Google and the information written on your post is interesting. I enjoy reading this one, looking forward to reading more of your posts!!
fishin 2 go apk
I agree with your Why Me? The Brainerd Real Estate Blog, fantastic post.
Charlotte Lefler
Normally I don’t read post on blogs, but I wish to say that this write-up very compelled me to check out and do it! Your writing style has been surprised me. Thank you, very nice post.
Lacy Hazard
I am only commenting to let you understand what a impressive experience my cousin’s daughter experienced studying your web page. She realized numerous things, which included what it is like to have a wonderful helping mindset to have certain people effortlessly grasp various complex topics. You truly exceeded readers’ expected results. I appreciate you for imparting such valuable, safe, revealing and easy thoughts on this topic to Gloria.
matt gorden
Hey we was just reading your post on my HTC Phone and I was thinking about how well it will work on the new ipad thats coming out. Fleeting thought. Anyway thanks!
http://lastlongerguide.net/
Manuel Shuskey
I wasn’t aware of some of the information that you mentioned so I want to just say thank you
Rueben Koepnick
I do not write a ton of remarks, however i did a few searching and wound up here Why Me? The Brainerd Real Estate Blog The Brainerd Real Estate Blog. And I actually do have a couple of questions for you if you tend not to mind. Could it be simply me or does it appear like a few of the comments look like they are left by brain dead folks?
And, if you are posting on additional places, I’d like to keep up with anything new you have to post. Could you make a list of every one of all your community pages like your twitter feed, Facebook page or linkedin profile?