Continuing on my theme of Positives and Negatives about our modern world in 2011 from before:
I was listening to a local radio show the other day. It was one of those shows where everybody calls in to complain. The host pulled a fast one and instructed everyone that before they could call in with a negative comment, they had to call in with a positive one. So here are some more of what I think is positive and negative in our current day and age:
Positive:All this connectivity. I really think all this connectivity is really cool! I like being to be able to text and work and send emails and look at Facebook while I am drinking Starbuck's and driving in my car...I'm kidding.
I find it absolutely fascinating and still a little magical how it all works. That I can pull up just about any information about any subject at anytime. That I know the goings-on of my family 2200 miles away. That I can look at the real estate industry and get information instantaneously as it comes out. That I can network with other professionals without having to get out of my robe. (Hence, no video conferencing camera). I wish I looked like the guy at the left. I pretty much look like this guy below...Again, that is why no video conferencing.
It is all pretty cool and I think allows for the exponential development of ideas and concepts, as well as helping me feel connected with people thousands of miles away without having to pick up a phone!
Negative: All this connectivity. I do not have to pick up a phone. I don't really need to reach out to someone to have a certain amount of relationship with them. I also think the fact that all this information is available at our fingertips has allowed us to become lacsidaisical about actually learning things. Why memorize it when I can Google it? And now with my smart phone on me all the time, I don't have to be!
I also think that social media sites can create relationships that seem like real relationships, but aren't really. I may feel like I know someone because I read their blog and correspond with them- but I have never met them, and do not really know what their like. I think it can create a placebo for actual, real interaction. I say placebo because it feels real, but does not truly have the same effect as interacting with a living, breathing, warm human being. You can't Man Hug on Facebook. They need a "Man Hug" icon in addition to the "Thumbs Up".
So they say to stick to your strengths. That's great advice. My strengths lie in not knowing exactly what my strengths are. I am fairly good at a lot of things, not so good at a fair number of things and really good at not so many things. I have done so many things that I do not really know which ones I am strong at and which ones I am not. I'm the guy who can "kind-of" play the guitar. I am the guy who writes occaisional poetry but hates to read it. I am a pretty good softball player but can't play basketball. I am obsessed with sailing but own a speedboat. I love to hunt- I have done it once. I am great with people and really enjoy it, but have a teensy bit of social anxiety in crowds.
Stick to your strengths. As a real estate agent, this provides an interesting and dumbfounding place form which to do business. In real estate, everyone is an expert. Not only is everyone an expert, but everyone is "the best". This makes me uncomfortable. And sometimes a bit, well, depressed. I know a lot of good agents out there that would never qualify themselves as "the best". However, they have been smart, kind, savvy, and wanting to work together to get their clients the best solution possible. They are certainly experts. And I have dealt with a lot of the "best" with whom I have been sorely disappointed at what the best now must mean. I mean, I am "experienced", I am "knowledgeable", I am "personable", I am "educated"...And the list goes on. (Well, at least it goes on a little bit) But am I the best?
I don't ever really getting to a point in my career where I could say that. Wouldn't the best be the best for everyone? I mean, some people may not like me. Maybe short Irish guys scare them? And my wife says I wear too much cologne sometimes. What if they have allergies to that sort of thing? Who knows? I sold my expensive Mercedes for a pick-up truck
because it was more practical. It is a horrible real estate vehicle. But I can put a lot of wood or beauty bark in the back.
My wife was right about that one. 
What if they think the truck shows a lack of expertise? Sometimes I truly feel like I must have something wrong with me because it doesn't feel right for me to say I am the best, yet the field seems to exert such implicit pressure to say that I am. I think I do a great job for my clients, and feel that they would have a rough time finding better service and understanding. But how can I verify that? There may be somebody better out there for them- there are 25000 agents in our area! Some even advertise on billboards and host golf tournaments and drive really expensive cars (and some, admittedly, drive pick-up trucks). And all of them seem to be the self-appointed best. 
I used to think I needed to get to a place where I was the best. I have learned it is impossible. At least for me. I continue to educate myself and try to be on top of the market so I can give what I perceive to be the best, most up to date information with a dose of wisdom and insight that I have gleaned form being I the business for 10 years. I try to listen. I try to help. I have learned if I go for the highest volume, I have clients who feel left in the dust. If I go for the highest dollar sales, I have clients who really need my help and can't get it. If I go for being the friendliest agent in the world, I lose my edge in negotiation and get afraid of being truthful due to the fear of offending my clients. If I go for being the toughest nosed negotiator, I become a jerk who loses deals out of prideful postulating.
So I have learned that I am here to be who I am. A jack of all trades, a master of a few, and someone who really feels care and concern for his clients. So maybe I am "the best". But I would have to say it as "the best that I can be". I don't think I'll ever be on a billboard. That would be cool if I was, though! I would take a picture of it and send it to my Mom. She would be proud of that ;-)
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A broad range of skill and experience across the breadth of the Sales, Real Estate, and Construction industry in the Northwest with an emphasis on customer/client experience and loyalty.
I love the Puget Sound and have made it my home for over 18 years. While originally from Chicago, I was drawn to the Northwest because of its fantastic natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation. I have stayed because of the wonderful people I have met here and the relationships I have built, especially with my wife and two young children...And Chicago is pretty cold in the winter!
Selling real estate has proven to be the perfect career match for me. As an associate broker, I have consistently ranked in the top 1% nationally for listing and sales. That's all fine and dandy, but that has happened because I personnally care a great deal for my clients. I am committed to making each new real estate venture as smooth as possible and provide as much knowledge and insight as I can for my clients. My mission is to help my clients make the right decision for them. Sometimes that may be where they may live, what house they will buy, or maybe not even buying a house at all.
My past and current clients have grown to trust my integrity, professionalism and experience. It would be my great pleasure to assist you as well with all your real estate needs. I would be privileged to add you to my ever-growing referral base of satisfied clients and would truly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Brian F Shields
Here is what my resume says:
"I offer demonstrated success in retaining a high level of client loyalty and referrals by providing outstanding, highly professional customer service and excellent project execution. I have expert level proficiency in sales, real estate development, real estate contracts and negotiation, team leadership and customer service. "
Now, real estate-eze aside, I have been in real estate for 10 years. I have helped about 300 families buy or sell a home. I have experienced a tremendous variety of real estate transactions, from cash flowing properties to foreclosures, first time home purchases to short sales, million dollar plus sales, apartment building sales, and commercial leases.
I have walked through these scenarious not only with my clients, but also on my own. I know the emotional strain that having too high of a mortgage payment can put on a family. I have known the sense of satisfaction of having a cash flowing investment property. I have experienced the loss of a foreclosure. Do you know that scene in It's A Wonderful Life where George Bailey runs into his home after having lost the money and hugs his kids and cries becuase he thinks he just brought them all to financial ruin?....I have had that moment. I know what to do and, perhaps more importantly, what not to do.
I feel it is truly a privilege given to me to help anyone, in any economic echelon, to walk through the real estate world- whether deciding to buy or sell or rent or just stay put and wait. It is such a cool thing to have the wisdom you have gained from your experiences help out someone else!
I feel I can handle your desires, wants and needs with a level of care that is hard to find and I have been convinced of this by my clients. I have the accreditation, but more so- I have clients whom I care for and who care for me. Clients who trust me enough to refer their Grandma to me. That is my barometer to determine the quality of work I am doing.
ABR
CBA
NWMLS
CDPE
"Brian has assisted me in selling and purchasing several properties, including single family, multi-family and commercial. He is an excellent Real Estate Professional. I also partnered with Brian in the purchase and rehab of a 12 unit apartment building. Brian coordinated architectural plans, limitations on performance requirements, hiring of contractors and subs; worked "hands on" at the job site, and completed the project with the highest quality at least possible cost."
-Gerry Allard, Owner, Allard Appraisal Services
"Brian possesses that rare combination of a great work ethic and personal integrity. I've known Brian for many years and worked with him both as a partner and as a client. I would recommend Brian without hesitation, he's a quality individual and a great guy to boot."
-Scott Fehr, West Region Pre Sales, Eloqua
"I have partnered with Brian to purchase and sell multiple residential properties, and one commercial property.
There are two things that really set Brian apart from other real estate agents. The first is that he has deep knowledge because he has performed so many real estate transactions compared to the volumes that most real estate agents have done. Brian has represented buyers and sellers on hundreds of transactions -- most agents haven't done anywhere near the volume that Brian has. The benefit of this is that 'he's seen it all' and with real estate, experience really counts in terms of hiring an agent. For example, Brian's experience lends him a keen eye on properties... and he's often pointed out potential problems or concerns with properties that I was considering purchasing... things that I would have missed had I not had Brian on my side.
The second thing that sets Brian apart is his personal integrity. He will do what is right, each and every time. I have personally found that to be rare in the real estate industry, because the incentives drive agents to simply 'close deals'. Brian does what is right to represent his buyers or sellers. It's a rare trait.
I give Brian my highest endorsement."
-Jason Warner, President, Recruiting Toolbox
"Our agent, Brian Shields, was great! We have completed several real estate deals in the last few years and have met and worked with many agents. Brian is the best we've worked with to date. Brain is very personable, knowledgeable and professional. He was ‘right on' when it came to choosing a listing price and targeting our selling audience... None of the other agents matched the enthusiasm, passion or knowledge of the area as Brian even though several of them specialized in our neighborhood. His input, communication skills and availability made selling our house fun and profitable. We simply couldn't have had a better experience. We will highly recommend Brian to our friends and colleagues."
-James and Lisa, Lake Forest Park, WA
"We wish to compliment Mr. Brian Shields for the manner in which he handled showing our home. Brian was cheerful, polite, and considerate when setting up the appointment; more than any agent we've spoken with in this process. When he found that he'd be a little late, he called us. This is the second home we've sold. I don't need to tell you how frustrating it is for a seller. Brian is the first agent that made it a pleasure... we appreciate his efficiency and thoughtfulness."
-Maria, Kirkland WA
"Brian Shields is a wonderful agent and we were thrilled with his work! He knows the business well and we were confident in his abilities. He was prompt in relaying information. Brian was very personable and treated us as people not just another commission. Thank you!"
-Susan, Everett WA
"Brian Shields was very professional, helpful, patient and responsive when working with us. We really enjoyed the friendly service that Brian provided to us. We really appreciate the time and help from Brian. Thank you very much!" -
Tuan and Thu, Federal Way WA
"Brian Shields was our agent. We had some ‘unusual' circumstances come up during the house prep for sale process. Advice needed from Brian was prompt and accurate. We have recommended Brian to friends. He is a true professional!"
-Joe, Woodinville WA
"Dear Brian, Thank you for your help and support throughout our difficult transactions. You were a large part of the reason I didn't go off the deep end. We are very happy in our new home. It's more than we ever could have hoped for."
-Tess, Mountlake Terrace WA
"Dear Brian, We just wanted to thank you again for all the work you did getting us into our wonderful new home... Thank you for your honesty and professionalism."
-Nicole and Joe, Edmonds WA
"Dear Brian, Thank you so much for making the whole home selling process so smooth and easy. I will definitely recommend you...to anyone who is looking to sell their home."
-Anita, Federal Way WA
"Dear Brian, Thank you so much for helping us get closer to our dream!... Selling our home with you was amazingly stress free - we enjoyed working with you so much."
-Shelley and Jerry, Everett WA
"Brian Shields was awesome! He told us exactly what to expect and it was all accurate. I will definitely recommend him to everyone I know."
-Eugene and Abigail, Everett WA
"Brian Shields is a very personable professional agent. We've bought and sold many homes and Brian is the best we've seen. Wish we met him earlier."
-Dennis and Diana, Snohomish WA
"Brian Shields is a great Realtor. We would recommend him to anyone we know. We couldn't have done it without him."
-Michael and Penny, Lake Stevens WA
"The ability to ‘run stuff by you' was invaluable. Your guidance and support has made a very frustrating experience bearable. We just can't thank you enough."
-Ian and Tami, Snohomish WA
"I would LOVE to have you put me on your list of references!!! I again want to thank you for being SO easy to work with and for finding me a happy house to make into my home!!!"
-Becky, Shoreline WA
"Brian did a terrific job in the buying process, negotiations, and follow-up during and after the whole process. We are definitely working with him again."
-Rolando and Cynthia, Everett WA
"Brian Shields provided all the services we needed... He worked hard to get us a fair price on the house we purchased and kept us well informed throughout the process. Well done!"
"Mr. Brian Shields was extremely knowledgeable about real estate transactions. He was exceptionally professional and courteous."
"Brian Shields was efficient, professional and fun to work with. Thank you!"
-Chris and Kathleen, Everett WA
"It was very assuring working with Brian Shields. He was great at putting my mind at ease and quickly answered all my questions."
"Brian Shields was an exceptional agent. We couldn't have asked for better!"
-Jesse and Caitlin, Mountlake Terrace WA
"Dear Brian, Thank you for making our house selling and buying as painless as possible."
-Mel and Chris, Duvall WA
"Allen and I appreciate everything you have done for us, since it was short notice - thank you again!!"
-Allen and Jill, Everett WA
"Brian Shields did a great job finding us a home... EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE! Thank you!
-Mikael and Stephanie, Everett WA
"Brian has shown his utmost professionalism in dealing with a client like me. On the scale of 1 to 10, I am giving him a 10."
-Lucy, Renton WA
"I am extremely pleased with the quality of service I received from Brian Shields. He is polite, knowledgeable, and professional."
"Brian Shields did everything he could to sell my house in two days. It was a pleasure to know him."
-Margaret, Bellevue WA
"Enjoyed working with Brian from day one. Very professional - I could not have asked for more - thank you!"
"I have recommended my...agent in the past and will continue to recommend him."
-Brian and Carole, Woodinville WA
"Brian did a great job in a tough market!! I don't feel I could have picked a better agent at any price."
-Joy, Arlington WA
"Brian was beyond excellent. Words can't describe the quality of personal attention he provided."
-Michael and Evelyn, Monroe WA
"Brian was very professional and came across as someone that you could really trust."
-Tim, Marysville WA
"Brian Shields, our Realtor, did a great job helping us sell our house. When we purchase we will definitely be using him again."
"Brian is OUTSTANDING and made the purchase of our home as painless as possible. Kudos!!"
"Brian Shields was a great agent! We'll be back."
-Steve and Amber, Marysville WA
"Brian was wonderful to work with. We really appreciated his patience and great advice. We wish every real estate agent (would) be as Brian Shields."
-Vladimir and Tanya, Mill Creek WA
"Brian Shields is an outstanding agent! I'm glad I chose him."
-Chris, Renton WA
"Brian did a great job from start to finish."
-John, Mercer Island WA
"Brian is very professional and proficient."
-Barney and Stacey, Redmond WA
"Brian Shields was excellent and very patient with all parties involved.
-Steve and Mary, Seattle WA
"Brian Shields is a great agent to work with. He is very dependable and responsive."
"Great service... an agent who was accessible and attentive to our concerns."
"Brian Shields - I would like to thank him for all his help in a very stressful time - thanks Brian."
"Brian Shields - good to work with and always on time."
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