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Sean Grange, 2012 Top Producing Agent for Star Real Estate
Sean Grange
After talking to Sean Grange for 5 minutes, it’s apparent why he was the #1 producer for Star Real Estate in 2012. His laid back attitude, passion for Real Estate and knowledge of the industry led him to close 44 transactions last year when, according to the National Association of Realtors, the average number of transactions for an agent was 8. “Unlike some realtors I don’t limit myself to one product or geographic area,” Grange said, working throughout Orange County. Grange not only represents buyers and sellers for residential real estate, but is also active in commercial and investment properties. Grange attributes much of his success to referrals and repeat clients and prides himself on keeping the same clients throughout all major transitions of their lives. “I want to be there when they buy their first home, buy investment properties, and when they downsize later in life,” Grange said.
But Grange didn’t set out to be a Real Estate agent. After graduating in 1996 from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, he went into the software industry and eventually managed sales for a software company. It was then that he bought and sold his first investment property and witnessed the entire process from start to finish and was hooked. He joined Star Real Estate shortly after and has been with Star his entire 12 year career, consistently ranking among the top 1% of realtors his entire career.
While Grange is 100% devoted to his clients at all times, he practices the “work hard, play hard” mentality when it comes to balancing his work and personal life. When he’s not busy closing deals he’s spending time with his wife Corie, and two sons Hunter, 7 and Taylor, 6. “I’m very fortunate that I’m in a unique business where I can take time off for my family,” Grange said.
Grange took nine months off in 2009 when he took his family on an extended vacation to 8 countries around the world, introducing the wonders of global travel to his kids and spending valuable time as a family.
Grange said that being a good father stems from his past volunteer work with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Orange County and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Orange County. “I like to give back and create excitement in their lives by introducing something new each and everyday,” Grange said. Grange recently attended the wedding of his “little brother” who was nine when he first met him. “It was amazing seeing him 21 and all grown up. I like to think I was a good role model for him and continue to be for my boys,” Grange said.
Grange will be presented his 2012 Top Producer Award at an awards ceremony on February 12th. For more information please visit www.grangerealty.com or call (714) 500-3332.
Why MARIA X, TOP PRODUCING AGENT FOR STAR REAL ESTATE
Maria Xanthakis
Maria did not start out as a Realtor; for 20 years she owned and ran one of the most popular and successful restaurants in Huntington Beach; PERO’s was located in SeaCliff Shopping Center. While the restaurant business was in the family blood it was at PERO’s Maria honed her organizational, management and most of all customer service skills. Maria is the consummate professional in everything she does; she has a brilliantly focused energy level that amazes.
Jim Fruth, President/CEO at Fruth Plastics may have said it best in his review of Maria:
“In my 25+ years of real estate experience Maria Xanthakis (Maria X) is the hardest working, most results oriented and focused Real Estate professional that I have come across! In running a multi-million $ organization, I know personnel that deliver … .and conversely people that do not…Maria DELIVERS…the ultimate professional…and I HIGHLY RECOMMED her.”
Jim Fruth
There is a consistent on-going Theme when people talk about Maria; Drive, Energy, Professionalism, Results, Moral fiber and Integrity. You get it all.
Terry Reay, Manager Star SeaCliff has this to say:
Maria Xanthakis (Maria X) is one of those unique people in the world that everyone wants to know and identify with. Her peers both respect her and enjoy doing business with her. In all the years I have known her, I have never had a single complaint, She is always upbeat with a terrific “can-do” attitude. One of the most positive people I have ever known. The “Perfect Realtor” describes her to a T. Puts her client’s interest in front of her own.
Terry Reay
Maria has a Get-It-Done Marketing Strategy and her team is forged from the same; they understand and follow Maria’s lead. They are Results Oriented, Focused and committed to being the absolute BEST.
When you meet Maria you instantly know; you can sense it, you feel it – she is authentic and will do what is best for you. .
Diane Highland, another of Maria’s Clients says:
“Maria is always encouraging and backs it up with her personal drive and energy. Maria is extremely intelligent, detail-oriented, well organized and has extensive business experience to get the job done in record time. I witnessed her collegial interactions with other agents…a perfect negotiating style that manages to be strongly assertive without creating an atmosphere of ’competition’. Maria gives new meaning to the overused phrase ‘going above and beyond’. We were kept informed every step of the way and Maria always promptly returned our phone calls.
We would recommend Maria X to anyone and everyone; To those we love because she is so wonderful. To those we don’t love so much because they will become better people just by being around Maria.
Diane & Kevin Highland
If you are entertaining Listing your property for sale or if you are interested in buying real estate, You owe it to yourself to interview MARIA X (Xanthakis), You’ll be Happy you Did. Call Maria Xanthakis at 714-785-8914. Visit her web site at http:// www.MariaXHomes.com to find your new home.
Star Real Estate is one of Orange County’s leading independently owned real estate companies. It encompasses a network of over 350 experienced realtors, 6 Corporate offices and 2 affiliated offices of Star South County. Star Real Estate divisions and entities include: Terra Mortgage; Advantage One Escrow; Star Investment Group; Star Business Brokers; The Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (Relocation).
Pam Etem Receives Star Real Estate’s Presidential Circle Award
Pam Etem
Frank McDowell owner and broker of Star Real Estate is honored to announce that Pam Etem has again received Star Real Estate’s prestigious “Presidential Circle” award for 2011. “This marks Pam’s 7th consecutive year for this top production award, a really difficult task given the turbulent real estate market of the last 7 years”.
Pam Etem ranked 57th out of over 1100 real estate agents in Huntington Beach 618th out of over 11,000 agents in Orange County for her production in 2011. Orange Coast magazine also recognized Pam in their December 2011 issue as being a “Five Star Real Estate Agent”. Their award was based on surveys from homeowners, peers and industry experts. They acknowledged “Pamela Etem as providing exceptional service and overall satisfaction” for her clients.
In receiving these acknowledgements Pam commented that none of this would have been possible without the incredible support of her family and the trust and loyalty of her clients. “I am honored and humbled that my past clients continue to support and refer me. Thank you all for these amazing accolades, now back to work”.
Star Real Estate, one of the largest family owned real estate companies in Southern California, has over 325 agents in seven area offices and two affiliated offices in South Orange County. The company’s goal is to bring its clients the total property-ownership experience, all under one roof — from residential and relocation services to commercial real estate transactions — with the expert assistance of its ancillary services, Terra Mortgage and Advantage One Escrow.
For more information, call Pam at (714) 717-6408, e-mail her at pamela.etem@verizon.net, or visit www.theoc-realestate.com. Pam’s office is at 16875 Algonquin, Huntington Beach, California, 92649. For more information about Star Real Estate, visit http://www.starrealestate.com/.
Realtor® Nationwide Open House Weekend Brings Buyers and Sellers Together
Star Real Estate
With plentiful inventory and record breaking housing affordability conditions, Realtors® expect this year’s spring home buying season to be a busy one. To kick off the season, Realtors® from coast to coast will host thousands of open houses as part of the Realtor® Nationwide Open House Weekend. On April 28 and 29 Star Real Estate Realtors® in Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley and the surrounding areas will hold open houses all weekend long, bringing buyers and sellers together.
“This nationwide event offers buyers the chance to visit some of the many homes in their local area while learning more about homeownership,” said Frank McDowell, CEO of Star Real Estate. “Open houses are also an opportunity for Realtors® to connect with consumers in their communities about the housing issues that matter most to them.”
Realtors® will be available at open houses to answer consumer questions about the home buying process and local market conditions. Star Real Estate will be giving away ten chances to win a $50.00 gas card to 10 lucky open house attendees.
While the housing market continues to recover, it’s showing signs of improvement, and for many, homeownership remains an important part of the American Dream. According to research from the National Association of Realtors®, more renters than ever aspire to become homeowners and an overwhelming majority of Americans believe buying a home is a solid financial decision.
“Homeownership matters to individuals, families, communities and our nation’s economy,” said McDowell. “The housing market plays a vital role in both the long- and short-term health of this country. Homeownership is not just an investment in your future; it’s an investment in the future of generations to come.”
Earlier this year NAR reported housing affordability conditions reached the highest level since record keeping began in 1970. The housing affordability index is based on the relationship between the median home price, median family income and the average mortgage interest rate. The index reached 206.1 in January, the first time the index broke the two hundred mark. The higher the index, the greater the household purchasing power. This means the typical family has roughly double the income needed to purchase a median-priced home.
“Realtors® believe that anyone who is able and willing to assume the responsibilities of owning a home should have the opportunity to pursue that dream,” said McDowell. “Realtors® know what matters most to buyers and sellers in this area and have the expertise and knowledge to help you achieve the dream of homeownership.”
Star Real Estate, one of the largest family owned real estate companies in Southern California, has been providing residential real estate services for more than 34 years. The company has over 325 agents in seven area offices and two affiliated offices in South Orange County. Its agents, experienced in navigating the complex housing market, are continuously trained in all facets of residential real estate, from equity sales to foreclosures and short sale properties.
The company’s goal is to bring its clients the total property-ownership experience, all under one roof — from residential and relocation services to commercial real estate transactions — with the expert assistance of its ancillary services, Terra Mortgage and Advantage One Escrow.
To learn about Star Real Estate and its innovative programs and extended training for Realtors, call Diane van der Goes at (714) 378-3496 for a confidential interview. Catch her on Twitter @StarREInOC. Follow Star and the latest trends in real estate at www.facebook.com/StarRealEstate, or visit http://www.StarRealEstate.com
Susan Mercer and Star Real Estate Deliver Service with Integrity
Susan Mercer
Susan Mercer has been active in various aspects of the real estate business for more than 20 years. A second-generation Realtor mentored by her parents, Bill and Janet Brewster, she entered the profession armed with knowledge. Susan has earned the distinction two years in a row of being one of only 7% of Orange County real estate professionals elevated to a “Five Star” status. Well-known in Orange County, she estimates that 98 percent of her business is with previous clients and referrals. She credits this success to integrity.
“For me, one of the most important aspects of the transaction is trust,” Susan said. “My clients know that I say what I’m going to do, and I do what I say I’m going to do. This aligns with the integrity that defines Star Real Estate. Clients will feel confident that they have the support not only of myself, but of the entire Star family.”
In guiding clients through all aspects of a transaction, Susan patiently assumes the supportive role of an educator. She carefully monitors each step to overcome any objection that may stand in the way of her clients’ goals. She is quick to put clients at ease, and her positive attitude earns the respect of both buyers and sellers alike.
“I enjoy guiding my clients every step of the way to ensure that they have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the home buying or selling process,” Susan said. “Complete disclosure and an open line of communication are essential to a successful transaction, and that doesn’t happen over night. I spend as much time as needed to accomplish these goals so that my clients get the service they deserve.”
To contact Susan, call (714) 549-7873. For more information, visit www.susanmercer.starrealestate.com or visit www.SusanMercer.com.
Star Real Estate, one of the largest family owned real estate companies in Southern California, has been providing residential real estate services for more than 34 years. The company has over 325 agents in seven area offices and two affiliated offices in South Orange County. Its agents, experienced in navigating the complex housing market, are continuously trained in all facets of residential real estate, from equity sales to foreclosures and short sale properties.
The company’s goal is to bring its clients the total property-ownership experience, all under one roof — from residential and relocation services to commercial real estate transactions — with the expert assistance of its ancillary services, Terra Mortgage and Advantage One Escrow.
To learn about Star Real Estate and its innovative programs and extended training for Realtors, call Diane van der Goes at (714) 378-3496 for a confidential interview. Catch her on Twitter @StarREInOC. Follow Star and the latest trends in real estate at www.facebook.com/StarRealEstate, or visit http://www.StarRealEstate.com.
“Green” Broker Jennifer Thomas of Star Real Estate Deals Up Options
Jennifer Thomas
Going above and beyond the call of duty is what clients have come to expect from Broker Jennifer Thomas. Throughout her 25-plus year career, she has consistently ranked in the Top 1% of agents at Star Real Estate. As a former teacher, she is patient, caring and honest. She holds a short sale/foreclosure resource certificate, and goes the extra mile to fully disclose the details of all contracts while relaying complex information in a clear, concise manner. With a strong sense of personal responsibility, she often helps secure bids from contractors when helping to upgrade a listing. Integrity is her guiding principle.
As one who aggressively pursues further education, Jennifer is certified as an ECO-Broker and has a Green Designation from the National Association of Realtors. With a focus on energy efficiency, she works enthusiastically to help clients save money by recommending “green” home options. This also enables clients to obtain a higher resale value when putting the home back on the market. Her interests motivate her to serve on the board of the Bolsa Chica Land Trust. She also participates as a Public Works Commissioner for the city of Huntington Beach.
Jennifer is also trained a Senior Real Estate Specialist, and estimates that about 20% of her business comes from this segment of the population. She is dedicated to serving in the best interests of families with senior members and strives to keep seniors independent by being able to stay in their own home. Family members have come to trust her judgment, and rely on her for her expertise. Referrals and repeat business is her reward.
As a member of the National Association of Realtors, California Association of Realtors and Orange County Association of Realtors, Jennifer is driven to stay current so that she can fully educate her clients in all aspects of a real estate transaction.
To contact Jennifer, call (714) 415-5052. For more information, visit http://jenniferthomas.com/.
Star Real Estate, one of the largest family owned real estate companies in Southern California, has been providing residential real estate services for more than 34 years. The company has over 325 agents in seven area offices and two affiliated offices in South Orange County. Its agents, experienced in navigating the complex housing market, are continuously trained in all facets of residential real estate, from equity sales to foreclosures and short sale properties.
The company’s goal is to bring its clients the total property-ownership experience, all under one roof — from residential and relocation services to commercial real estate transactions — with the expert assistance of its ancillary services, Terra Mortgage and Advantage One Escrow.
To learn about Star Real Estate and its innovative programs and extended training for Realtors, call Diane van der Goes at (714) 378-3496 for a confidential interview. Catch her on Twitter @StarREInOC. Follow Star and the latest trends in real estate at www.facebook.com/StarRealEstate, or visit http://www.StarRealEstate.com.
Star Real Estate’s Donna Horn Brings Snow to Surf City’s Seagate
Donna Horn
While coastal Orange County enjoyed a balmy, sunny Saturday before Super Bowl XLVI, tons of snow fell at the Surf City community of Seagate, just 2 miles from the coast in Huntington Beach. Hundreds of residents showed up with inner-tubes, saucers, mittens and boots for an afternoon of sliding and snowballs in the neighborhood’s central park and greenbelt.
Donna Horn, a 13-year veteran Realtor with Star Real Estate, sponsored the event which included 5 tons of snow for a toddler play area in addition to the 35 tons groomed for four runs on the park’s hillside. Thirty gallons of cocoa and water, along with plenty of cookies, kept the crowd energized all day.
A resident of Seagate herself, Donna has enjoyed hosting community events in this neighborhood for 13 years. It’s a way for neighbors to get together for some fun with family and friends. Every season has a reason for an event in the beautiful community park, a 13-acre open space with a playground, a basketball court and protected wetlands. The 4-acre Peter Green Park also includes a tot lot and basketball, volleyball and tennis courts.
In the spring, children look forward to finding thousands of eggs hidden in the park for the annual Seagate Easter egg hunt. Summer events have included Big-Screen outdoor movies, picnics and Olympic competitions. It’s not fall without a “Halloweenie roast.” And winter holidays mean a visit from Santa with sleigh rides, the Academy for the Performing Arts holiday choir, or this year’s “day in the snow” — without the drive to the mountains!
Seagate is bordered by Goldenwest Street, Ellis Avenue, Main Street and Garfield Avenue. It includes the communities of Promenade, Cape Ann, Greystone Keys, Crystalaire, Bel Air and Sherwood. These neighborhoods offer a variety of home styles and floorplans ranging from 1,250 to 3,186 square feet.
If you’re considering coastal Orange County for your next home or investment, call Donna, the area’s real estate specialist, at 714-746-1670. Donna began her real estate career in 1999 and was an immediate Top Producer at Star Real Estate, and has been every year since. She was again honored with special recognition by Orange Coast Magazine in its selection of Orange County “Top Real Estate Agents – Highest in Service & Overall Satisfaction” who provide exceptional service and overall satisfaction. A 34-year Huntington Beach resident, Donna specializes in the Seacliff and Landmark communities. She is an experienced agent of short sales and income properties as well as equity home sales. She would love to show you what the wonderful beach-close communities of Huntington Beach and Fountain Valley have to offer. Visit her website http://www.donnahorn.com/. “You will be SOLD on her Service!”
Star Real Estate, one of the largest family owned real estate companies in Southern California, has been providing residential real estate services for more than 34 years. The company has over 325 agents in seven area offices and two affiliated offices in South Orange County. Its agents, experienced in navigating the complex housing market, are continuously trained in all facets of residential real estate, from equity sales to foreclosures and short sale properties.
The company’s goal is to bring its clients the total property-ownership experience, all under one roof — from residential and relocation services to commercial real estate transactions — with the expert assistance of its ancillary services, Terra Mortgage and Advantage One Escrow.
To learn about Star Real Estate and its innovative programs and extended training for Realtors, call Diane van der Goes at (714) 378-3496 for a confidential interview. Catch her on Twitter @StarREInOC. Follow Star and the latest trends in real estate at www.facebook.com/StarRealEstate, or visit http://www.StarRealEstate.com.
Investment Expert Sean Grange Remains On Top at Star Real Estate
Sean Grange
Each active year of his 10-plus-year career, Sean Grange of Star Real Estate has retained his status as one of the Top 1 percent of agents in Orange County, having logged more than $200 million in real estate sales. In 2011, Sean completed almost 40 transactions, which keeps him on top. A certified short-sale resource, he maintains a perfect record with his short sale listings rate of 100 percent. He credits this success to the professional short sale negotiators he enlists to act on behalf of his clients.
An active investor, Sean has the personal experience that enables him to steer clients through 1031 investment exchanges and second/vacation home purchases. With several rental properties in his portfolio in Orange County, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and Park City, Utah, Sean is equipped to help others make good financial decisions when buying rental properties. His investor clientele has purchased both single units and apartment buildings throughout the Southern California region.
“With interest rates and purchase prices at recent lows, I am able to help investors purchase rental properties that provide both good short-term cash flow and longer-term appreciation opportunities,” he said.
Recently recognized by Orange Coast Magazine as one of the top real estate agents in Orange County, Sean attributes his success to an extremely high client-retention rate and a large referral business. He works personally with his clients every step of the way, from opening escrow through to closure, ensuring a smooth process for all involved. His professional affiliations include the Orange County Association of Realtors, California Association of Realtors and National Association of Realtors. He is SFR-certified and is a long-standing member of Star Real Estate’s President’s Club.
Sean has been with Star Real Estate throughout his real estate career. He enjoys being part of one of the largest regional brokerages in the area. He helps clients buy and sell properties throughout Orange County and Star’s six offices throughout the county provide the ideal platform to assist every client’s unique geographic needs.
To contact Sean, call (714) 366-5292. For more information, visit http://www.grangerealty.com.com.
Star Real Estate, one of the largest family owned real estate companies in Southern California, has been providing residential real estate services for more than 34 years. The company has over 325 agents in seven area offices and two affiliated offices in South Orange County. Its agents, experienced in navigating the complex housing market, are continuously trained in all facets of residential real estate, from equity sales to foreclosures and short sale properties.
The company’s goal is to bring its clients the total property-ownership experience, all under one roof — from residential and relocation services to commercial real estate transactions — with the expert assistance of its ancillary services, Terra Mortgage and Advantage One Escrow.
To learn about Star Real Estate and its innovative programs and extended training for Realtors, call Diane van der Goes at (714) 378-3496 for a confidential interview. Catch her on Twitter @StarREInOC. Follow Star and the latest trends in real estate at www.facebook.com/StarRealEstate, or visit http://www.StarRealEstate.com.
Star Real Estate’s Pam Frey Teams Up for Better Buyer/Seller Service
Pam Frey
Realtor Pam Frey is a Top Producer, having been one of the top 10% of all agents at Star Real Estate for almost six years. Well-known throughout Orange County, she remains focused on providing the highest level of customer service. Pam draws upon the resources of The OC Home Team, a group she formed nearly six years ago. The team is devoted to offering a full range of services to help clients make better-informed decisions when buying or selling real estate.
Pam is short sale and foreclosure certified and is a member of the Women’s Council of Realtors. She is also a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network, a small group of agents who must satisfy a set of consumer-valued criteria.
An active businesswoman, Pam’s expertise includes mortgage banking and small business development. She covers all aspects of property acquisition, including investment properties and 1031 exchanges. Her services include presenting buyers with a comprehensive market analysis of areas of interest within their qualifying range. She strives for quick pre-approvals and assists in obtaining the right financing. She explains all pertinent real estate documents in advance of any transaction, and protects buyers’ interests by presenting offers professionally, while negotiating the best possible terms.
When listing a property, Pam utilizes an extensive marketing program to get properties exposed to a broad range of prospects for the fastest sale possible. She reviews all offers, and counsels clients accordingly. With a background in customer service management, Pam is adept at helping relieve any stress that may result from any type of real estate transaction.
In addition to guiding clients through a single transaction, Pam’s group is positioned to provide clients service for life. To contact Pam, call (714) 317-1678 or visit www.TheOCHomeTeam.com.
Star Real Estate, one of the largest family owned real estate companies in Southern California, has been providing residential real estate services for more than 34 years. The company has over 325 agents in seven area offices and two affiliated offices in South Orange County. Its agents, experienced in navigating the complex housing market, are continuously trained in all facets of residential real estate, from equity sales to foreclosures and short sale properties.
The company’s goal is to bring its clients the total property-ownership experience, all under one roof — from residential and relocation services to commercial real estate transactions — with the expert assistance of its ancillary services, Terra Mortgage and Advantage One Escrow.
To learn about Star Real Estate and its innovative programs and extended training for Realtors, call Diane van der Goes at (714) 378-3496 for a confidential interview. Catch her on Twitter @StarREInOC. Follow Star and the latest trends in real estate at www.facebook.com/StarRealEstate, or visit http://www.StarRealEstate.com.