John Mijac is a Realtor with a technological bent. He's been a writer, an email administrator and Web designer, but found his true calling in Real Estate. He is the Chair of the Tucson Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service's Technology Committee. John is a strong advocate for social networking and believes in communication and ethical, open relationships in business. If you have questions about real estate, email him at john@mijac.info - he always answers.
Lyle and Hunter were excited about moving to Tucson. They'd spent a week there with friends last November and had fallen in love with the desert, the weather and the local culture. Also, Lyle was about to retire and Hunter was a telecommuter, so they realized they were finally free to escape the snow. Hunter had been looking online for a week before he mentioned the idea to Lyle. He began with a slideshow of seven gorgeous Adobe homes he's found on-line. Lyle was all for it but pointed out that, though they could do as much house hunting online as they pleased, they really needed a REALTOR representing them locally. Hunter was a little put off.
"Why do you say that? We can do the web search ourselves, and when we find the right place, why not just buy direct?"
"While you've been searching for a home, I've been looking for representation. We need a Buyer Broker to speak for us, just as the Seller has a listing Broker representing them."
"Why do you think that's so important?" asked Hunter.
"Remember when we bought this place? We found it at an open house and just signed with the seller's agent. I have to say that I don't think we got good advice at all. Right from the start he made it clear he was representing the Seller."
"He was kind of cute though."
"Yeah, but that didn't help our case at all. Besides, I want someone in Tucson who knows the local rules and regulations, and the different areas. I think we need a guy who can research any unanswered questions. Someone who will have the knowledge we need on the properties we like. I want an agent who will work for us with as much energy as you and I put into our jobs."
"Well I want a gay friendly REALTOR who won't get creeped out when we talk about a house as our home."
"My point exactly. I have a slide show too: of the agents I've picked online." And that's when they found me.
We had our first discussion as a conference call. They asked me if there were any GLBT concerns around living in Tucson. I pointed out that the Tucson Association of Realtor's MLS listing agreement identified Sexual Orientation as a protected class under the fair housing section. That means no one who has listed their home can discriminate against GLBT people in the sale of their home. Also, Tucson has a Domestic Partner registry (I and my husband are registered there). Then I set them up a website to keep track of the homes they found interesting. We found five fabulous houses, any of which would be perfect. So they decided it was time for them to come and experience them in person.
I'm expecting Lyle and Hunter in a few days and I can't wait till they arrive. Not only is it fun to work with a gay couple, but also, I'm sure we're going to be friends. For me, connecting with the people I work for is what it's all about.
So check back with me in a week or so, because I'll fill you in on all the details of our house hunt in my next letter. I've asked, and they don't mind if you follow along throughout the journey, from start to finish. Usually it's a pretty interesting ride and perhaps you'll find out a few things along the way about buying a home. We'll talk about it all and if you have questions don't hesitate to email me or give me a ring!
John Mijac john@mijac.info
520-404-0741
http://www.johnmijac.com
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