Inman News tracked down Mike "Super Mike" Minervini, a broker-associate for RE/MAX Champions in Matawan, N.J., for this Q&A. E-mail us if you or someone you know would be a good candidate to feature in this recurring Q&A segment.
Q: How many years have you worked in the real estate business, and how long ago did you begin marketing yourself as Super Mike?
A: I have been in real estate since 1998. I began marketing myself as "Super Mike" since the beginning of 2007.
Q: I read that a child’s drawing served as inspiration for "Super Mike." How have your clients responded to your "super" branding? What sorts of feedback do you get?
A: My clients, along with real estate agents, usually begin by laughing. This is the point. My goal is to make them laugh, but also to remember the brand. They all think it is unique.
Q: What superpowers do you believe you bring to your clients? What superpower do you sometimes wish you possessed to assist your clients in real estate transactions?
A: The superpowers that my clients usually mention: extreme accessibility, knowledge of the marketplace, patience and enthusiasm. I wish I were able to see into the future to have my clients avoid any pitfalls with home inspections.
Q: Who or what is your nemesis in the real estate industry, and how do you confront or defeat this foe? What is your weakness?
A: I don’t have a nemesis; however, my biggest weakness is the fact that I am always trying to keep up with and answer my cell phone.
Q: Have you ever changed in a phone booth or worn a cape?
A: Nope. No cape, just T-shirts that I give out to clients!
Q: Describe your overall approach to marketing.
A: My overall approach to marketing is mostly Internet-based and reliance on past clients, friends and family for referrals. I work my database to put buyers and sellers together. I sent out a monthly e-mail newsletter that focuses on the marketplace and featured listings.
Q: Describe any niches or specialties that you have in the housing market.
A: I am a multi-family specialist. I thoroughly understand the investment market and can effectively assist my clients with this market.
Q: What is the most important lesson you have learned during your time in the industry that you can share with other agents?
A: Keep in touch with all of your past clients! Offer guidance and advice to clients and ask for referrals!
Q: What is the most important lesson that you can share with buyers and sellers?
A: Listen to your agent for expectations to be set. Let your agent guide you and when you are unhappy, communicate this to your agent.
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