Client Success Story: 

In an interview with James, we take a look back at his journey with Matt Winzenried Real Estate Partners and find out what made his experience so special. Follow along in the interview below to see his feedback, advice, and how it was working with Kenny and the team.

Who is James Gardner

From Kenny: “Working with James was the equivalent of spending time with a dear friend. I looked forward to all of our appointments together. He stayed optimistic in a tough market and due to his continued patience, he was able to score a great deal on his condo. James went as far as to get me a bottle of my favorite bourbon and met me up for a few games of pool to celebrate his closing. I'm excited to work with him again in the future!”

Why did you decide to buy? How did you know it was the right time?

“It’s interesting, every now and then you start thinking about how much money you’re spending on rent. You kind of carry that over the course of a few months and then over the course of a few years. Then you’re like ‘Okay, this actually makes more sense to invest in something.’ 

I also had the pressure I wanted to invest before I was 30 and I turn 30 in a few days. So I wanted to do something this year. I’m surprised that it worked out as well as it did.”

What were you most nervous or concerned about in the process?

“The market. The market was very, very volatile. I shouldn’t even say volatile, it was just full of people, who, because of COVID, waited a few months and kept on accumulating liquid funds that they could put down on top of the asking price of the sellers. That was very scary.

Also being very young, I know a lot of people of older generations are used to buying in their 20s or sometimes even before their 20s. But for me, I was so used to living in that whole co-op/cohabitation trend, sharing an apartment or house rather than having something of my own. That whole idea of getting something on your own that is potentially for you alone was very, very scary. And then you add the market volatility on top of that.”

What you were looking for in a real estate agent?

“I wanted someone who was down to earth. I am a very picky person and I wanted someone who had the know-how but was also young, engaged, and very aware of the market. Someone who I could connect with on a very personal and personable level. And I was very lucky to get the person I got! Very lucky to get Kenny.”

Why did you ultimately choose Kenny to be your real estate agent?

“Kenny had that flair. He walks into the room and he knows his stuff. He just makes everyone like him. It was very clear from the beginning that it would work. He knows his stuff — he’s very aware of what I wanted. I told him that I wanted something very spacious, I don’t like a lot of tight corners, cramped hallways and things like that. A lot of light. Whenever we would see something he always had his list of things that I had told him at the beginning in mind. He said, ‘James, going down your checklist this is what this offers.’ So that showed me that he listened very well. He was also very good at interpreting things that I coud'nt even put into words. After a few showings with him I realized that ‘Okay, this is good, we’re good.’”

How has the process been — getting your home ready to move in and then moving in?

“It was a bit of a difficult beginning because it is a job. You have your full time job and then you have this project that is very very massive. There’s a lot of work that goes into it. And then at the same time, after the closing, you’re balancing, ‘Well when am I moving out of wherever I’m currently living? How am I going to balance my budget and my time?’ Splitting between moving and building up the new place so it’s inhabitable for me. Again, I’m a picky person so I need it to be up to the level where I’m comfortable. Luckily, it was there by the time I had to move in.”

What stood out to you during the process?

“There were a lot of things that stood out to me. But more specifically to my interactions with Kenny: it was very, very clear. The steps, the processes, the documentation all of that was very clear from his side. He presented it in a very professional and straight-forward manner which I appreciated because of my personality. 

At the same time, the process with the bank: I had a very good bank who was supporting me with the mortgage loan. They were also very clear and communicating with Kenny. It was a great collaboration all around. Since I’m a person who likes to have his I’s dotted and his T’s crossed, it felt like everyone was on the same page since everyone wanted to get it done properly but also very swiftly.”

What advice do you have for someone who’s thinking about buying/selling a home?

“Do it!

One, because it has so much value. Not only for you but also for those who will come after and inherit. 

At the same time, there is the feeling of owning something that is so great. It’s yours. The process might seem daunting but it’s worth it in the end.”

Would you hire MWREP again? If yes, why? If no, why not?

“Absolutely! You guys have been great, all of you. I’ve talked to at least four or five people working at your company and it’s been great. I’m really grateful.”

Do you have any closing thoughts?

“I was just very surprised at how great everything worked out! How great everyone was, how open and honest everyone was about the process. Kudos to you guys!”

Thank you, James, it was such a pleasure working with you!

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