John Robertson has been in the Real Estate industry for over 20 years and with the Portland branch of Pointe3 Real Estate since May 2014. He started his career as a Mortgage Broker, then transitioned into Real Estate Sales full time. His background as a lender has given him valuable experience regarding loan programs and fee structures that he passes on to his clients.
John is a native Oregonian, giving him firsthand knowledge of the Portland area.
I sat down with John to learn more about him for this week’s Agent Spotlight!
1. When and why did you get started in real estate?
I started my Real Estate career in 1990 after having been a Mortgage Broker. Real Estate and Banking are a family business. My Mother was a Real Estate Broker for 30 years, and my Father was a Regional Manager for Wells Fargo. So you could say that it is in my blood!
2. Why did you join Pointe3 Real Estate?
Pointe 3 has a unique approach to the Real Estate Business. They have successfully combined Corporate Relocation, Leasing, and Sales into one business that continually supports and feeds on itself. I had been working in all of these capacities separately, so it made sense to combine them under one roof and join a company that had the system already operating, and who could teach me how to be more productive doing it.
3. What neighborhood(s) do you specialize in?
I work mostly within the center of Portland, specifically the Pearl District, Nob Hill in NW Portland, SW Portland, and the Eastside neighborhoods.
4. What is the most challenging/gratifying aspect of being a real estate broker?
The constant variety in this business is both a challenge and provides a great source of satisfaction. Also knowing that my experience is a great resource to my clients is gratifying. But I always keep an open mind, because there is always something new to learn!
5. What do you foresee in 2016’s real estate market?
I see the market continuing to be tight with lower inventory. I do think that it is beginning to slow down a bit, and that would bode well going into the fall if we could begin to see a more balanced market. It may take into 2017 to really see that starting to level out substantially, however.
6. Do you have any advice for someone looking to buy or sell a home in today’s competitive real estate market?
Fasten your seat belt! Buyers need to be prepared to make multiple offers on several properties before securing the one that works for them. That means having thick skin and staying positive through the buying process. Sellers need to know how to navigate through multiple offer situations, and choose the one that best fits their needs. That sounds easy, but it really can get complicated and overwhelming. So, we as agents need to use our experience to help our buyer and seller clients make the best decisions possible.
7. Tell us about you! Where did you grow up and where do you currently reside?
I grew up in Eugene, OR., and have lived in Portland for 36 years. I came to Portland to go to college at Lewis and Clark, and have called Portland home ever since. I live in the Westmoreland/Sellwood neighborhood, which is in SE Portland, about 3 miles from downtown. We have been in the same house for 21 years, and my wife and I have raised our 3 kids here. I guess you could say that we like it!
8. What are your passions or hobbies outside of real estate?
I love to cook, go to the gym, ride my bike around town, go to the beach, and play golf.
9. What are your favorite things to do in Portland?
My favorite things to do in Portland are bike riding on the corridor along the river, eating out at all the great restaurants and food carts, golfing, and going to the events and concerts in the parks and on the waterfront. It’s a great city!
10. Why should someone choose you as their real estate broker?
Because I really care about my clients. I want my sellers to net the most out of their property as quickly as possible, and with the least amount of hassle. I want my buyers to find their dream home, find it soon, and get it for a price that they feel is fair and that they are comfortable with. I want my clients to feel as if I had their best interest in mind, and never to feel that it was just about the commission. I think my extensive experience and knowledge of the areas I work in helps to make that experience a reality for my clients.
Are you looking to buy, sell, or lease your home in Portland, Oregon or surrounding areas? Contact John Roberton today at 720-936-8360 or [email protected]