Margaret has enthusiastically embraced the technology tools that help to serve her clients quickly, effectively, and personally. She keeps her always-connected, go-anywhere tablet computer close at hand. This one tool allows her to take listings and sign contracts electronically, handle the many details of a transaction, and fax or email the paperwork to clients and lenders instantly. Her Treo Smart phone and voice mail keep her in touch with clients, and her GPS keeps her going in the right direction. Margaret uses a compact digital camera to capture high-quality images for her listings. Her HomeRome.com Web site welcomes both sellers and buyers and gives them useful information in addition to quick access to all her listings. And her blog, HomeRomeBlog.com, features up-to-the-minute real estate news and insights. Margaret truly makes Cyberspace work! It’s no wonder that more and more people agree: "Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome

 What can you say that sums up a person who sells homes at full price or better, who earns a full commission rate, who has people waiting to list with her, who is electronically connected in every way imaginable, who schedules time off regularly, and who manages to be a nice person at the same time? Two words: Margaret Rome .

Click on this link to read about Margaret Rome ,Broker Agent of the Month http://www.homerome.com/HTML/brokeragent/broker.html

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The second briefing..RECS.. is with Margaret Rome, who single-handedly maintains a successful, high-service real estate business while averaging a week a month off. Her independent style is an interesting contrast to the popular team approach. Rome credits the Society with giving her the technological know-how that allows her to compete on her own terms. She shares her secrets for personal productivity, describing in detail her innovative ways of working with clients from any location. Through her creative use of her web site, she is able to leverage her business into the buyers' side while maintaining her preference for working with sellers. Rome identifies her favorite hardware and software tools as well as her favorite online services and resources. According to Rome, "We all have to find our niche. My niche is that I'd rather do what I do best and do less of it than…be a mega agent."

Margaret Rome attributes much of her success to the teachings of Floyd Wickman, specifically Floyd’s philosophies of full service for full and fair commission, and to his dialogue for protecting your commission.But if you were to ask Floyd about the success of his training programs, he would quote Alex Haley, author of Roots, who said, “If you see a frog sitting on top of a fence, chances are he didn’t get there all by himself.”

Margaret has been held up as an example to all of Floyd’s students for many years, because she believes so passionately in the value she brings to the transaction. The issue for Margaret’s clients is not should they pay her standard 8% listing fee. The issue is can they get on Margaret’s waiting list!

The foundation of Margaret’s success, though, isn’t built just on techniques or dialogue. Those are just the expression of her core values. From the moment she became a Wickman student, Margaret embraced the ‘get by giving’ philosophy, and has been recognized by her peers and the Wickman organization with the prestigious Carolyn Howd - Get By Giving Award.

If you ask Margaret’s clients, friends, colleagues or competition about her best quality, the universal answer is her positive attitude. No matter what challenges life has thrown her way, Margaret’s philosophy has always been, “I don’t do upset.” She is always there to help an agent; always the first to volunteer to share her experience and expertise; and always with a giving heart and a sunny disposition.

She almost sounds too good to be true, doesn’t she? Well, we’ve known Margaret Rome for over 10 years, as a student, friend and teacher, and whether you scratch the surface, or dig deeply, you’ll find a heart of gold.

Mike Pallin, President

The Floyd Wickman StarMaker Team

Floyd Wickman, CSP CPAE

National Speakers Hall of Fame

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Dear Margaret:

We find it amazing that we never got around to thanking you for all of your effort in selling our home of over 41 years.

Phyllis and I were talking about a range of things last night, and the conversation came up about some friends who could not understand why we did not try to sell the house ourselves in such an active market, or use one of the discount realtor services. Everyone seems to have stories of houses sold to the first prospect, even before the "For Sale" sign went into the ground. 

I guess some people feel that they must squeeze every last dollar that they can get, but perhaps they fail to recognize that there is not only the price, there is a cost.  I question whether or not the costs of doing it yourself worth it?

In looking back we had no idea what a realistic asking price should be, how long our house might be on the market, and what improvements, beyond a new roof, we might have needed as a result of inspections.  Unknowns for us, but not for you.

We would have been more than a bit overwhelmed and crazy with the appointment process, the last-minute cancellations, the no-shows, etc.  Not to mention answering the prospective buyers questions about every appliance, the heating system, the windows, the plumbing, the electrical system, the ceiling, the fireplace, the "chimley," and of course, what kind of floors are under the carpeting.  We had confidence in you, so we just let
you do the work, and thank you for doing so.

You gave us an appropriate level of guidance, you emphasized "curb appeal," and you reminded us that we still had to live in the house while it was for sale. I think you implied that a perspective buyer and/or their realtor would recognize this fact.  Our not being present allowed the prospects to look where they wanted to look, ask the questions that they wanted to ask, and to voice their opinions, concerns and objections to you  freely.

Hindsight is often be "20-20."   But as we look back we truly had no idea about how to sell our "home."  

Our experience convinced us,  that sellers should always use a knowledgeable realtor when selling their property.  The right realtor will do their best to make the process as trouble free as possible, save you loads of time, and get you the best price that they can.

That, Margaret, is precisely what you did, and we sincerely thank you.



Phyllis and Mort
July 20, 2006

You are the real estate agent of agents and we are lucky to have had an opportunity to work with you.  From day one, you were up front and honest with us.  You never had us do anything unreasonable to sell our home.  You are not like other agents who tell you re-paint any colored walls, remove family pictures and to remove the children’s toys.  You showed and sold our home with all the love and personality that we put into it.  You made us feel comfortable through the entire process…even with a rookie agent on the ultimate buyers side.  Thank you for selling in 2 days with 5 showings.  Not only that, thank you for doing this and getting us such a great price with a rent back agreement until our new home was completed construction...Keith

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Margaret,

A Niche Can Make You Rich
by Joeann Fossland

Margaret Rome, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Baltimore, Maryland became so busy, she purposefully focused her business only on people who valued her and the "Nordstrom service" she prides herself on delivering. For the past 13 years she has had a waiting list for clients, receives about 30 percent higher than average listing fees and enjoys frequent spa vacations. She creates a web page for each client and says, "by limiting the clients, I can give full service and not compromise." Margaret's passion is evident when she speaks to freely share her expertise with other agents. "I have been fortunate to become so successful in real estate. And I really love what I do!" It is important, she says, to " Work with people that you like and respect. Find out what the other person needs and meet those needs. Make it easy for the clients to get information."

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I consider it a blessing and a privilege to even know you, and I am always blessed and encouraged when I talk to you. I think you are the dynamic deserving realtor of the century.. Your good heart and efforts to be a blessing to everyone you know will not be un-noticed. In life we meet people who shine above the crowd, and you are definitely one of those people.. Please don't ever hesitate to let us know if we can do anything to help you in any way either professional or personal.

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Dear Margaret,

This is to congratulate you on your exceptional performance on the sale of our previous home at 53 Millstone Road, Randallstown MD 21133. My wife Rosemary and I had interviewed several agents to represent us in the sale of our home, and had found two who seemed suitable for the assignment. However, based on the recommendation of Grace Magin, our longtime friend and a peer of yours, we interviewed you. Curiously, we also found out that you were interviewing us! After a brief interview, it certainly seemed that you thought you could outperform the other agents, but I must confess to some doubts. As a real estate professional, I know all too well the difficulty not only of getting the deal, but more importantly, of closing the deal, at the right price and on time.

To say you "delivered" would be the grossest of understatements! Not only did you get the deal, but delivered a "squeaky" clean deal, at the price you recommended-which was significantly above what we would have asked for-in an exceptionally short period of time! Moreover, the sale went to actual settlement with a minimum of trouble, which only enchances your performance. I would like to say more, but since you made the sale so extremely smooth for us, there is not much more to be said. This what one pays for, after all-professionalism.

Thank you for the invaluable assistance you provided us. ... Please feel free to use me as a recommendation any time.

Steven............................

..absolutely, undoubtedly fantastic!  You are the BEST of the best in the real estate business that Keith and I have encountered (directly or indirectly by hearing of friends experiences).  We have learned so much from you.  From that first brassy call that Keith initially made to you, to the friendly calls that we have shared since the sale of Adrianne Way...

My name is Fred Serovy and if you are considering buying and or selling a home, my wife Judy and I recommend very strongly Margaret Rome as the Realtor to have working for you .You cannot find anyone who is more dependable.

She is smart, tough and compassionate and very knowledgeable. She is not just another realtor.

Margaret has the ability to plug into her clients specific needs. She is a hardworking, dedicated professional in her field. In fact, she would excel in any chosen profession.

Judy and I had a home that was very marketable and should have sold in about a year at the most. The realtors we had are very nice people, but unfortunately did not have Margaret's expertise. Consequently, the house did not sell for two years. Least to say my wife and I were very frustrated.

After changing realtors we went from the frying pan into the fire. Then, enter Margaret Rome to save the day. Margaret, on her first visit, spent five hours goung over our home in detail while taking copious notes. My daughter whispered to me and said "I like this lady" - she is going to sell the house!

Margaret considered this a professional challenge. And to make a very long story short, she sold our home. Our only regret is that we did not have her as our original agent.

So, in closing, my wife and I want to thank you, Margaret, for a terrific job you have done for us.

Sincerely,

Fred and Judy Serovy

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Debra Agliano, ERA Andrew Realty, Medford, MA ......... a great idea that Margaret Rome shared years ago. I make up business cards for each listing. Of course, I put the house's website on the business cards. The sellers pass out the cards at work and to their friends. It's a great way to spread the word about the house (and the agent!)

We really enjoyed meeting you and feel excited that you are our new realtor. We definitely have a new confidence to say the least. I admire your passion…it is obvious that you love what you do.

-Lori and Steve

 You deserve a vacation after your helpful assistance in relocating my parents…from their home of thirty-five years…you certainly rose to this challenge admirably…thanks again for your flexibility, patience and persistence.

-Harriette

......Whew!! Moving into my new home was not my idea of "fun entertainment"...With the expertise of Margaret Rome, relocating was a rewarding experience. Ms. Rome was with me 120% of the way. She quickly learned my likes and dislikes. Her tenacity was unbelievable, her perserverance is to be commended. She even took time to teach me that patience is truly a virtue. Her mission did not stop the minute I signed the bottom line. After settlement she checked several times.....for a while I thought she was trying to re-sell my home. It was indeed a pleasure to have Margaret as my Real Estate agent, Kudos! to a job well done. I sincerely thank her " for taking me there!"

Al Napper

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    - Margaret is like a gourmet cake - made up of a collection of ingredients - her mastery of real estate has comes from learning, watching and then implement from the masters .. people like Floyd Wickman, Allan Hainge & his CyberStars and Michael Krisa aka that Interview Guy with Broker Agent News.

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In 1991 I walked in to teach a three week class to a group of newly licensed agents. I was the person responsible for designing and teaching courses for the firm of O'Conor, Piper, and Flynn, Realtors. As soon as I reached the front of the room, the lady in the front row smiled and introduced herself as Margaret Rome, former pediatric nurse and ceramic artist. Margaret was an attentive student absorbing all the information. And, she was so anxious to begin her new career that she had her first listing before the first week ended. It was obvious that the combination of her qualities would bring her rapid success and personal satisfaction.

Being organized and instituting systems is essential in this business. The first time Margaret undertakes a responsibility, she creates an effective system. That first listing needed the carpeting replaced. She recognized the value of having business relationships with related industries so she immediately coordinated the carpet purchase and replacement. Even with effective and efficient systems, one has to reconsider their priorities when business increases. Years ago she was overwhelmed with the demands of the real estate business and the demands of the daily housekeeping and cooking. A quick, logical evaluation lead to her decision. She delegated the cooking and housekeeping because others could satisfactorily fulfill those responsibilities. Who else could provide the guidance to her clients that she can? Who else has the equivalent knowledge, skills, and determination that she has? Who else could satisfy the demands (sometimes unreasonable ones) of her clients? Some say she cares too much about her clients. That is what good representation is about.

Margaret is a brilliant lady with a sharp business mind and a deep concern for the welfare of her clients. She can negotiate with the best in the field of negotiation, win on behalf of her client, and make certain the other party feels victorious. If a situation requires "tough as nails" handling, she will be prepared. If the situation requires tenderness, there is no more empathetic person than Margaret. If her clients need assistance from other professionals, Margaret has her wireless tablet to not only convey the name and phone number of the professional, but to make immediate contact for her clients. If detailed, thorough research needs to be done, she will accomplish it before anyone else realizes it is needed. If new technology is introduced, Margaret will be the first to have it mastered. If programs or classes are offered that she has not attended previously, she will be the first to sign up--and sit in the front row. If there is an educational session that will benefit her, she will be in the first row again! If there is a valuable new certification or designation to earn, she will be among the first to earn it. (You guessed it--in the front row!)

It could be assumed that Margaret's life is consumed by real estate activities. Another assumption might be that she has no other cares or responsibilities--that she has the "perfect life." I'd say that yes, Margaret is "consumed." Not by real estate but by the opportunity to make a difference in peoples' lives. She does not wait for opportunity to happen; she makes those opportunities. If a new agent in the business needs help or advice, she provides the help and advice. Then she assists the new agent until the task is accomplished and the new agent has a thorough understanding of the process. She will call a client to allay unnecessary concerns. She will anonymously provide an opportunity of career training to a lady devastated by a surprise divorce. She will call and comfort a fellow agent who is battling cancer. She will buy the gift basket of a client who is trying to start a specialized gift-order business. She will call another agent to congratulate that agent on a desirable listing, or a successful settlement. These characteristics have earned her many awards. She has won awards for top production in her office, in her company, and in the nation. I'll bet that the award Margaret covets the most is the Carolyn Howd Award that she was presented for being the most caring, and consummate professional real estate agent.

For her family, she is an anchor. She has the love and respect for her husband Lee that is rarely achieved in any marriage. She cares deeply about their daughter, son, grandchildren, and other family members. Even with all the responsibilities of her business, she researches any needed medical treatment when there are medical challenges. Then she researches the best doctor and hospital if surgery is needed. And then she is with her loved one through the critical times. She attends important family events. I've been with her when she has said, "Excuse me, Anne. Do you mind if I make an important call?" Then I hear her say, "Hello Lee. I'm just calling to tell you how much you mean to me." She reserves a week a month to vacation with Lee. She and Lee have parties, like the one to just simply "Celebrate Life."

Just like the rest of us, she works hard. She laughs, she cries, she hugs, and she loves. She can't imagine the difference she has made in the lives of those who have been fortunate enough to be her family, her clients, her co-workers, and her friends. Yes, I'd say that is the "perfect life."

Anne L. Hruby
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
10050 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, MD 21042
(410)203-2045; (410)461-7600
ahruby@cbmove.com

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Dear Margaret,

Sam and I want to thank you for all you have done to help us achieve our dream. When we met you, I knew right away that you were the "one" for us. You have been there every day, every step of the way. You know your business and in addition to being knowledgeable, you are understanding, empathetic, and supportive. We consider you a friend and will always do so. Thanks so much for giving us your time, patience, and understanding!

Debbie and Sam

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Dear Margaret,

Although long overdue, we wanted to thank you for all your help in selling our house. The sale of Lemuels went so smoothly and we know most of it was due to your hard work. Thanks also for coping with our small trammas.  It was really helpful having you as a "sounding board"  and we do appreciate it. .....Thank you again for you help and concern. We truly appreciate your efforts...

Aaron & Kathleen

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I met Margaret Rome at Masters Academy, and a wonderful long - distance friendship was started. She has an abundance of energy and real estate knowledge. She will willingly share all of her terrific and unique marketing programs with anyone who wants them. In my opinion, she is a one of a kind person…

—Nelson Zide CRB, CRS, GRI
ERA Real Estate

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Margaret Rome can get your home sold as soon as possible for the top dollar in your market. You’ll love working with her so much that you’ll suggest her to all your relatives and business colleagues!  Margaret learns as much as she can about would-be sellers to make sure that her skills perfectly match the potential clients’ needs. Each of Margaret’s listed homes is advertised in a multitude of local publications each week as well as her award winning website www.HomeRome.com. Margaret Rome is not a mega-agent with a large, impersonal team surrounding her. She works personally with  every one of her clients. It’s no surprise that she interviews each potential client and limits the number she actually takes. That guarantees warm and friendly Margaret Rome service and she  has the inventory and ability to serve all of your special housing needs. Margaret makes all transactions run smoothly. You’ll love having her help you find your dream home so much that you’ll recommend her to all your friends! 

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Martha Stephens RGS Fountainhead has left a new comment on your post "Technology and Being Better at What We Do": In my role as Chairman of Education for the State and Baltimore Chapters of WCR, I work with many talented and knowledgeable instructors, and I can honestly say that the Day of Education, which provided 6 hours of FREE CE to WCR Members and was open to all, was one of the most productive and interesting programs we have had. Craig Wolf, of AHS, did a great job of bringing us up to speed on the new SEER requirements. Margaret's discussion on putting ideas into practical use via technology enabled us to see new ways to use the tools at our fingertips. Jeff Margolies, of North American Title, brought real life scenarios to the class for discussion, and we all left knowing how to avoid, in advance, common catastrophies at the settlement table.
Clint Tsao (1st Mariner)and I (RGS FOUNTAINHEAD) sponsored the coffee and pastries in the morning, and
I was able to provide a homemade meal for everyone at lunch. It was a delight to both share one of my favorite easy chicken recipes (click on Martha Stephens in the BLOG and read my bio)and visit with old and new acquaintances

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Margaret Rome is so much more to me than a mentor. She is my true friend for life. She has an open and genuine manner that is so loving and gentle to all she meets…—Terry O. Stafford
Radio Talk Show Host for All About Real Estate