Paul Fishman is a Realtor associate with Douglas Elliman working in Boca Raton.
Every week, we ask a Miami real estate professional for their thoughts on the top three stories from the week before. This week, we spoke with Paul Fishman, a Realtor associate with Douglas Elliman.
Miami Agent (MA): What are some strategies you’ve found particularly effective when dealing with high-end buyers and sellers?
Paul Fishman (PF): I’ve been in the business for 30 years. High-end clients in many ways are no different than anyone else. One leg goes into the pants at a time. The critical part in working with them is to be on the same playing field. Don’t patronize them. It is isolating.
My clients place high demands on their service providers because they have high standards. Slow customer service and lack of industry knowledge are two factors that will not and should not be tolerated. As a service to my sellers my team routinely handles maintenance issues within their estates at no charge. This approach has enhanced my reputation. Nothing is more important than your reputation. Nothing.
MA: What is going to keep Miami from falling into a second bubble in 2015?
PF: : I have no crystal ball so it is hard to say if Boca Raton or South Florida will continue to see growth in the real estate market. I believe, however, that there are several factors working in our favor. For starters 10,000 Americans are turning 65 every day. All stereotypes aside, Boca Raton does have its fair share of retirees, we should see continued growth out of that demographic for the foreseeable future.
More important, I believe is the feedback that I am getting from private schools in our area. In 2013 I was told 25% of the applicants came from up north! It seems many people are being priced out of New York. Technology is allowing them to work anywhere and Boca Raton is on their radar.
MA: Considering your recent switch to Douglas Elliman, what is it the big brokerage offers that convinced you to leave your independent firm?
PF: Douglas Elliman is an impressive name with a rich history. DE’s technology is incredible. We want to work with a firm that supports our sales and marketing effort. We like networking with agents in New York because they have buyers looking our way. Douglas Elliman has the potential to offer us great opportunities. We are happy to be on board with them.