3 Minutes on a Park Bench with Larry McKenna from Coldwell Banker in Ronkonkoma

We emailed Patch partner Larry McKenna from Coldwell Banker in Ronkonkoma and he tells about the best part about working in the Sachem area and discusses the questions both buy and sellers should ask to find a reputable real estate agent.

Patch: What is your definition of success?

Larry: My definition of success is when I can help a home buyer or seller get to his or her next level as smoothly as possible. Real estate transactions can be very stressful and I aim to reduce all the stress.

Patch: What’s the best piece of sales advice you’ve ever been given?

Larry: The best sales advice I have ever been given is to remember to put the clients needs above your own and always remember that you are there to help. I would also add that follow-up and communication are the most important things.

Patch: What’s the best thing about selling homes in the Sachem area?

Larry: The best thing about selling homes in the Sachem community is the fact that I am such a fan of Sachem. Both of my sons went through the Sachem school system and they were very active in the athletic and academic aspects of school. One of my proudest moments was when the Sachem North Football Team won the L.I. Football Championship at Stony Brook. I witnessed the culmination of watching my son play ball for 10 years and finish his football career on top. I am a 30+ year resident and I love this community.

Patch: What’s the strangest thing that’s ever happened to you when showing a home?

Larry: I think the strangest thing that ever happened to me while showing a home was when I had scheduled an appointment to show a buyer a home and the home had a lock box. I was told the home would be unoccupied, yet while showing the buyer the home, we entered a bedroom and the son of the homeowner was sleeping in his bed. Needless to say we all were quite startled as it was in the middle of the day. Thankfully, he was alone.

Patch: How’s the market these days?

Larry: In one word "hot". Right now, inventory levels are down and homes that are priced right are being scooped up. In many cases, I am seeing multiple offers and many times, offers over the asking price. If someone is thinking about selling, right now is the best time it has been in years. For buyers, I would say that if you see a home that you like, don't hesitate to make an offer because tomorrow it could be gone.

Patch: What is your favorite part about working in the real estate industry?

Larry: My favorite part of the real estate business is working with first time home buyers and walking them through the process from start to finish. On more then one occasion, I have had first timers cry with joy as the closing comes to an end. I try and celebrate with them as we uncork a bottle of champagne. There are very few careers where you can get that type of satisfaction.

Patch: What sets one real estate broker apart from another? And how are you unique?

Larry: I feel there are many things that set me apart from other agents, in the fact that I have a passion for this business that comes from down deep inside. When it comes to working with sellers, I employ the latest technology and marketing and spare no expense in marketing their home to the widest audience.

Patch: What’s your advice to someone who’s looking to a buy a new home or sell his or her home right now?

Larry: If you are looking to buy a home: 1st thing is to get pre-approved. Consider your current lifestyle and find a home that suits it. Consider agency representation - Don't wait - now is the time.
Advice to sell your home: Price it right. Make it always available for showings, and ready to be shown. Hire an agent with a proven marketing plan and the skill to get the job done.

Patch: What three questions should readers ask when trying to find a reputable realtor?

Larry: How long have you been working in this area? How will I be represented in respect to agency representation? Are you a full-time or part-time agent?

Patch: How can readers contact you or learn more about CB Moves?

Larry: Readers can reach my office at 631-588-9090. Contact my cell at 516-635-2174. By email at [email protected] Or online at www.sachemrealtor.com, www.lmckenna.com and zillow.com/profile/larry-mckenna.