Is Florida still the Retirement State?: Real Estate Tips from a Navy Veteran Realtor – Thom Tillier

On this episode of The Closing Table, we sat down with Thom Tillier!

To watch the full episode, check it out on YouTube below. In the meantime, here’s a summary of the conversation…

Here’s what you missed from Thom Tillier…

The conversation starts with Thom sharing his experience during the time he was in the military and how it works to his benefit. He explained how discipline, punctuality, organization, and resourcefulness play a significant role in his career. He also believes that everyone should serve in the military at some point in their lives because it molds people into better individuals.

Next, Thom talked about the areas he serves, with a team handling Michigan clients and him handling clients in Florida. He also discusses the differences in residential properties in the two states he serves, such as basements and dry walls, as well as centered blocks and elevated homes. He then shared his thoughts on Florida being called the “retirement state”. Thom explained how the pandemic affected the market by causing many young professionals to relocate to Florida. Many retirees have also been selling their Florida properties.

Kevin then asked Thom how he manages the expectations of clients who may be repeatedly outbid for homes they are interested in. Thom mentioned how they check the market every day to help sellers set realistic expectations. He also believes that one should put their best foot forward so that even if they lose by a dollar, they will be content. He also mentioned how he advises clients to keep their excitement in check during showings, no matter how much they like the property. As most homes now have cameras, neutral reactions will provide room for bargaining.

When it comes to interest rate fluctuations, Thom explained how they affect their business and how the media also plays a role. He believes that there is no such thing as a bad market and that while the media focuses on the negatives, it is their responsibility to inform the public when good news arrives and interest rates begin to go down. He also discussed how he adapts his strategy to meet the specific needs of each client. As they speak with their clients on a weekly basis, their urgency shifts and interest rates undoubtedly play a role. Thom emphasized the importance of listening and comprehending their needs and objectives. It is about how you can help people rather than just making sales.

Thom concludes the conversation by addressing market trends in the areas he serves. He also explained how they stay on top of the real estate market by checking the MLS every day and pulling statistics. He believes that staying on top of the numbers, as well as utilizing your database by keeping people informed, is pivotal. Instead of being a salesperson, it will transform you into a knowledge broker and service provider. While his podcast is still in the works, he shared the program’s goals as well as how he cultivates relationships with realtors and views them as allies rather than competitors.

Check out Thom Tillier:

https://www.facebook.com/Tillier7

https://www.instagram.com/thomtillier/?hl=en

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomtillier/

If you loved this episode subscribe so you never miss one! Want more The Closing Table content? Head over to our blog.