I watched the hourly weather the night before, and the forecast was rain all the way through 1:00 p.m., then sunshine and only a 10% chance of precipitation. Would the book signing, we had scheduled from 2:00 to 3:00 last Friday, be soggy or bright?
The day turned out to be one of those absolutely glorious gems, cool but sunny, no longer summer, but not quite fall either. A perfect day, and well deserved after last year's "Liquid Sunshine." The planned book signing of Real Estate the Rome Way was scheduled for an hour at 2:00. That hour turned into four, did not leave until after 6:00PM.. just too much going on.
The MidAtlantic Book Publishers Association booth was at the hub of the festival, near the Washington Monument, right in front of the Mt. Vernon Place United Methodist Church with its gingerbread spires. We heard the sounds of bands from the nearby stage, saw colorful people, pets, neighbors and friends.
Students from the Institute of Notre Dame strolled the festival escorting characters from children's books like the hippos George and Martha, and Frogger.
Right across the way was the LiveBaltimore booth (last year they were easy to find with their bright yellow umbrellas.) The people-watching was excellent!
My publisher and friend, Peg Silloway,was there to volunteer with me, and we had a great time talking with the MBPA President, Sheila Ruth. Last year, Sheila's husband Nick – author of The Remin Chronicles series – and her son, David, where with us, and we missed seeing them this time.
But we met and enjoyed talking with Lucinda Clark of P.R.A. Publishing who came from Georgia to help at the booth and attend the National Book Festival in Washington the next day. Bill McAllen came by with his book, Spirit of Place: Baltimore's Favorite Spaces, a wonderful collection of essays and photographs (Bill is the photographer, Sarah Achenbach is the writer.)
There was so much to see, but I was not able to take my eyes off the church that stood behind our booth.The plaque commemorates the Charles Howard mansion that stood here before the church; it was in that home that Frances Scott Key died.
A news helicopter kept circling overhead and I tried so hard to get a shot of the helicopter over the church and in between the Washington Monument column. It was tough holding the camera in the moving crowd -so eventually gave in and just took the chopper!
Camaraderie, new friends, great weather, book characters, and magnificent architecture all around. A perfect day of books and blue sky in Baltimore.
www.HomeRome.com
410-530-2400
A year ago, I went to the very soggy Baltimore Book Festival and had a great time even though the liquid sunshine was intense. Back then, I was a soon-to-be published author. This year, I have a book and a book signing slot!
This Friday through Sunday (September 25-27) at Mt. Vernon Place, the 14th annual Baltimore Book Festival will spread out from the 600 block of North Charles Street with books, authors, food, performances, and fun.
Again this year I'll be volunteering with my publisher, Peg Silloway of The Silloway Press, at the MidAtlantic Book Publishers Association booth. And, on Friday afternoon at 2:00, I'll be meeting visitors and signing my book!
Last year as we sloshed around in the rain, Peg and I said, "Next year we'll be here with a Margaret Rome book." It was a big goal, and we've had adventures along the way, but we did it! Thanks to friends and supporters, the book is a success. This year, we'll be checking out booth locations for next year's festival. By then, Peg will have her Cat Lover's Book of Days along with the second in the Book of Days series available.
This year's list of authors at the festival is long and as varied as astronaut Buzz Aldrin, mystery writer Donna Andrews, and political commentator Gwen Ifill. There are readings, panel discussions, and great weather forecast. So if you are near Baltimore and want a fun afternoon, come to the Baltimore Book Festival this weekend. Please stop by and say "Hi!" on Friday between 2:00 and 3:00!
410-530-2400
Several mornings a week I go to Lifebridge Health Center and workout-at-the-gym This is where my trainer, John Vargo, helps me focus on Physical Training. John's clearly a fitness fan, and here's more proof: he recently competed in an Ironman marathon in Louisville, KY, and shared some photos.
What struck me about this was that while John was doing the running and riding his bicycle, he had a team supporting him. Dana Gaither, his girl friend, was there to hold up signs, run beside him for a while, and help him celebrate at the end. Besides Dana, other friends cheered him on and served as his support team. When it was over, John placed 320th out of 2,435 participants – that's in the top 15%!
No matter how good we are at what we do, no one does it alone, not even a marathoner. We need other people to cheer us on, to run with us, and to be there when we finish no matter whether we win or lose.
This holiday weekend I'm thankful for all the people who are there for me every day. To each of them and you, I say what John said to close his email: "All the best and make it a promising week."
410-530-2400
What's Luck Got to Do With It?
Not long ago I talked with Ylan Q Mui, a staff writer at the Washington Post, who was writing an article on the things sellers do to help sell their houses. She wasn't interested in decluttering or staging. What she wanted to talk about was lucky charms, totems, and other magical devices.
Her article, "Lady Luck Lounges on A Red Couch," ran on August 9, but you can still find it online (http://tinyurl.com/nkmher). She interviewed some agents in the area and included this about me and my lucky number:
"Margaret Rome, a real estate agent in Baltimore, has established her own lucky tradition. When she started selling houses about 20 years ago, she said, she was scooting around in a brown Porsche 944. She loved the car and decided to claim the number as her own. So on her very first listing, she ended the price in '944.'
"It sold within a week. Rome tried it again with her second listing, and it sold within two weeks. She did it again for her third listing, and it also got snapped up.
"I said, 'There's something to this,' she recalled.
"Rome has since used the number for every property, though she now drives a convertible Lexus. ("I didn't want to jinx it," she said.) Only once did she stray, when a family instead asked to use a number that is auspicious in Asian traditions, an eight. So Rome priced the house to end in '988.' Luckily, she said, it sold."
The thing is, I believe luck really has very little to do with selling houses. I believe it's much more the total of how you become known in your community, how you build your referrals over time, and how you treat people. As the saying goes, "The harder I work, the luckier I get!"
This story was picked up and ran on the front page of The Baltimore Sun's Real Estate section. Two calls from friends who read it in the Boston Globe.
How's your luck these days?
410-530-2400
"The Perfect Crab Cake" is something many restaurants in Maryland claim, but there's one place we've found that can back that claim with delicious proof.
Not long ago we spent a delightful afternoon visiting friends in Belair and decided to top it off with a stop at a local favorite. When you pull in to a neighborhood strip shopping center at 5:00 p.m. on a Tuesday, and the place is packed, you just know it's going to be good.
The Box Hill Pizzeria is known for its pizza, of course, but it's the crab cakes that bring people back. They were perfection, lumps of backfin crab (the best and sweetest crabmeat there is), seasoned and broiled to perfection, served up plump in generous portions. Box Hill's crab cakes were just picked among the best by Baltimore Magazine in the July 2009 issue. Yummy!
Their tossed salad comes with the best house dressing I can remember; it's so good they
bottle and sell their special recipe. The waitress kept urging us to "Dip the garlic
bread and the pizza crust in the dressing!" Yes…it was delicious.
It's true, you don't have to go far to have a vacation day in and near Baltimore. And when it's perfection in Maryland's signature dish, backfin crab cakes, Belair is just a short drive. Can't wait? You can order online and taste perfection for yourself!
410-530-2400
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Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome, HomeRome Realty Baltimore Broker ABR,ACRE(tm),CRS,e-PRO,RECS,PMN,SRES, iSucceed Mentor,CAP Floyd Wickman Starmaker CyberStar(tm), CyberPro 410-530-2400
In the Top 10
Trulia.com chooses the best real estate books of 2008
COLUMBIA, Maryland -- January 2, 2009 -- Margaret Rome knows real estate. As an agent for more than 18 years she has built a reputation as one of the top Realtors® in Baltimore, MD. Now, thanks to Trulia.com's year-end choice, more people are getting to know her. Real Estate the Rome Way was published in December 2008 by The Silloway Press of Columbia, MD. Less than a month later, it landed in the #9 spot on the list of Top 10 Real Estate Books in 2008 as chosen by Frances Flynn Thorsen, Community Manager for Trulia, the real estate site.
After successful careers as a pediatric nurse and a ceramic artist, Margaret Rome found her niche in real estate in 1990. She has developed time and energy management techniques that help her to be a consistent top producer, while creating client relationships that lead to repeat referrals. Rome has taken the lessons she's learned the hard way and put them in Real Estate the Rome Way as a guide to success in any real estate market.
The Silloway Press is an independent publisher of primarily non-fiction titles that bring an interesting or important message to their markets. Peg Silloway has been a CPA, artist, consultant, project manager, and mystery writer. After more years than she cares to discuss, she left the corporate world to pursue the career she always wanted as writer and publisher. Peg finds great satisfaction in seeing a project go from manuscript to finished book that the author and publisher can be proud of.
Imagine waking up in the morning looking forward to the adventures of the day, knowing that you will have fun and be rewarded, both emotionally and financially. Think what it will be like to have your clients send "Thank You" notes for helping them buy or sell a house. Picture yourself being congratulated on winning yet another top performer award. Margaret Rome has done all those things, and what she has learned can help other real estate agents do them, too.
Starting with no real estate sales experience but lots of enthusiasm and a thirst to learn, Margaret had her first listing and first sale almost before the ink was dry on her license. The story of how she did that – and all that has followed – is what you’ll find in her new book, Real Estate the Rome Way.
After successful careers as a pediatric nurse and a ceramic artist, Margaret Rome found her niche in real estate in 1990. It was not a good time to be a new agent – the real estate market in Baltimore, MD, was slumping and there were horror stories swirling through the industry of how long it was taking to sell a house. (Sound familiar?) Since she was new and didn't know better, she ignored what "everybody" knew about the market and proceeded to start listing and selling.
Real Estate the Rome Way is the ultimate guidebook for new agents and seasoned professionals alike. Here you will find stories that illustrate success strategies, and some that were learning experiences about what not to do. You’ll learn the core principles that are the basis of success, and you’ll see how they have worked in real life to build a highly successful and rewarding career as a solo agent. You will see that while you cannot automate success, you can use tools that will help you become a success – a lasting success – in real estate.
During booming real estate markets, many people jump into real estate seeing quick, easy money. When the market turns – as it always does – the agents who have taken the time to learn their businesses and build relationships are the ones who not only survive but continue to prosper.
Real Estate the Rome Way was published in December, 2008 by The Silloway Press, Columbia, MD. ISBN 978-0-9802057-9-4.
For more information and to order an autographed copy: http://sillowaypress.com/pages/RomeWayBook.html
Margaret Rome, phone 410-530-2400, email MRome@HomeRome.com.
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 Palm Pre 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
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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."
Interview with Margaret Rome Listen to at RECS radio Margaret Rome, REALTOR with THE Real Estate Company-TREC located in Baltimore, MD has been Elected Chairman of the Greater Baltimore Chapter of the Real Estate Cyberspace Society. John M. Peckham III, Executive Director of the Real Estate Cyberspace Society announced Chairman Rome's election and explained that the new Society Chapter brings national Cyberspace networking support to real estate professionals in this area. By utilizing the wide reach of the Internet, Society members bring additional value to the clients they serve. The Real Estate Cyberspace Society is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with 3000 members in over 90 Chapters across the United States and in several other countries. The Society provides real estate professionals with the latest up to the minute real estate Cyberspace tools and services to leverage their effectiveness, visibility and professionalism serving its members and the public from its worldwide Internet office at www.REcyber.com. Margaret Rome ABR, CRS, GRI, LTG, RECS, RRC, Cyberstar TM, brings a wealth of professionalism to the Society. Rome concluded that she is dedicated to serving clients with the latest technological innovations enhanced by the services received through her participation in the Society
Martha Stephens RGS Fountainhead "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.... Margaret's discussion on putting ideas into practical use via technology enabled us to see new ways to use the tools at our fingertips......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....... The Power of One. Imagine receiving an award from your peers - a really important and prestigious award. Not an Oscar, nor Salesperson of the Year or even a Lifetime Achievement recognition. It’s a simple little plaque with a small silver pin attached. But engraved in delicate gold lettering it says:The Power of One
Secrets for Personal Productivity
1. By using technology, Rome single-handedly maintains a successful, high-service real estate business while averaging a week off a month.
2. Rome limits the number of listings she takes at any one time to 15 so that she can maintain first-class service; her niche is to do what she does best on a scale she can manage alone.
3. Because she loves doing the kind of tasks assistants often do for agents, Rome seeks assistance in other areas, such as cooking and cleaning.
4. Rome has set up her phones for callers to leave her a message; no one else speaks to her clients, and she is never interrupted while speaking with anybody; the arrangement also gives her privacy regarding her whereabouts.
5. Rome's manner of working represents a different style from the team approach.
Tools for Running Her Business
- Rome relies on a laptop that gives her email access at all times; anyone making an appointment schedules directly with her.
-. Her web site is a valuable tool; potential listing clients can go to the site to interview her there; Rome is in the position to accept only the clients she wishes to work with, and she takes people only by referral.
- The web site is also the resource for property information in lieu of flyers or brochures; each property listing has its own page complete with description and multiple photos; sellers, buyers and other agents can access what they need from the site and print out copies if they wish.
- Rome uses the services of a young techie to post listings on the site; after a one-stop listing appointment during which she photographs the property while talking to the clients, Rome emails the photos to the techie.
'Buyers 4 Your Home' Page
1. Rome chooses not to work extensively with buyers, but if one comes to her and Rome does not have an appropriate property listed, she offers to post an ad on her web site for the buyer that details what the buyer is looking for.
2. Whenever Rome has sellers that she can't handle, she refers them to the 'Buyers4YourHome' page to check if there is a match.
3. Rome offers to send buyers any listings of interest she acquires and asks that they call her if they see anything of interest; through Rome's web site, buyers have access to every multiple-listed property, can sign up to search for their preferences and to be notified daily of new, appropriate listings.
4. Rome sends a signature email to prospective buyers explaining how to access multiple listings from her site and suggesting three or four lenders that they could contact about pre approval.
The little things you do each day have the power to affect a great many people. You inspire us with your willingness and ability to help others. You take on the day one day at a time. Continually searching for a way to make things better, seizing the opportunity to improve everyday life.
You make a world of difference.
Yep. Goosebumps time and maybe a tear or two. I wasn’t there when my friend Margaret received the Humanitarian of the Year award from her fellow real estate CyberStars in San Antonio recently. But I have known her quiet kindness and unobtrusive generosity, and want to add my applause. She is who I want to be when I grow up. by Peg Silloway at 1/19/2006
. Thank you for being “THE BEST” agent because you were there for every step of the process. We were never left alone. You were there for every showing, the unbelievable home inspection with the infamous Russ Allen, the appraisal, the pre-settlement walk thru with the buyers, and the settlement that almost wasn’t. In addition you provided guidance on the escrow release from our rent back agreement. We have never heard of such a personable agent! We will recommend you to anyone we know in the market to buy or sell real estate.
Thank you for your advise during the process – house related, relationship related, and children related. Most of all, thank you for your friendship. Keep doing what you’re doing – challenge the status quo and never settle for anything less than better than best. That’s why you are #1! The Holmes
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 fantastic….a real role model for me when it comes to attitude and to working through what life gives us. I can’t tell you how much good it does for me to talk with you both.......================================================================================
Allen Hainge
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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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Thank you so much for this dynamic opportunity! I will get signed up on Friday. I so appreciate your friendship and years of wisdom. God has gifted you with some very wonderful talents and personality traits…..
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.
Joe
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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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If you want my opinion of Margaret, it is in writing and far more profound that this simple woman can create.. The best description of Margaret can be found in Proverbs 31. She is the embodiment of the 'virtuous woman'. Love, Toby Toby Davis, LLC ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Margaret Rome - Just hearing her name brightens my day. Margaret is the embodiment of the ideal or a loving friend, wife, mother and Real Estate Agent. To me she sets the example of loving caring achievement that I hold as the 'standard' in my career.
I met Margaret at Master Sales Academy 1999 when she hobbled up with a cast on her leg and asked about our eMentors. www.eMentorConnection.com . The eMentors are a group of real estate agents from across the United States and Canada who live the philosophy "We Get By Giving" taught us by the man we consider the World's BEST Real Estate Trainer, Mr.. Floyd Wickman. The eMentors began in 1998 with 7 agents who I lovingly say were "drug kicking and screaming to their computers" and from there we grew and grew and grew. We are around 1600 agents right now. Our mission - "The Pursuit of Excellence ` Educating, Enlightening, Encouraging, Empowering" - supporting both the agents around us and the people who touch our lives. Margaret is a loving contributor and supporter of our group and is always there when someone is in need, providing scholarships, training, emotional support or whatever is needed when someone is in need
Keller Williams Real Estate
2680 Elms Plantation Blvd., Suite 102
N. Charleston, SC 29406
Cell: <SKYPETMPTAG0/>
Office Direct Line <SKYPETMPTAG1/>
Office <SKYPETMPTAG2/>
Fax (843) 414-4914
email: toby@tobydavis.com
www.TobyDavis.com
www.CharlestonTeam.com Here is an email from one of the CYBERSTARS:
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
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