Q: As one of the more seasoned real estate agents on the North Fork,what is it that sets you apart from the others?
A: Most of the buyers I work with are looking for second homes, and I understand that journey well because it’s the path I took. I bought my house here over 25 years ago and for a long time it was a weekend place, while I worked in the city. I know that feeling of respite the North Fork provides, that “exhale” when you get out here after a busy week in the city.
Many agents have successful careers before entering real estate; mine was in advertising and direct marketing, which helps when it comes to marketing a property, positioning it correctly and determining a strategy for reaching buyers. Of course, I couldn’t do all that without our terrific Brown Harris Stevens marketing team, our BHS offices and agents in the city, on the South Fork and in Florida, and our extensive national and global network through Christie’s International Real Estate.
Q: What do you like to do on the North Fork…after selling real estate of course?
A: I really enjoy the farm, food and wine culture that is developing on the North Fork – shopping at farmstands, cooking with local produce, seafood, meats and cheeses, pairing with our local wines, eating at restaurants with a local flavor. Gardening is a perennial preoccupation – it’s in my English genes! And of course, the beach is a favorite place to be, in all seasons.
Q: What is the best advice you can give a 2nd homebuyer when searching for a vacation home on the North Fork
A: Find an agent you feel understands your needs and spends the time to help you find the right house, which may indeed take time.
What I’ve found is that everyone has their own pace and process when searching for a home, and it makes sense to trust your instinct. If you find your right house on the first day of searching, I can help facilitate the process to complete the transaction quickly and smoothly. Or, if it takes years, then diligence and patience are required of both buyer and broker, searching and waiting for the right home.
Q: How would you describe your selling style?
A: I honestly don’t think of it as selling. My role is more matchmaker. I try to listen and help clients achieve their goals, giving them as much information as possible so they can make informed decisions.
Q: Can you tell us about some of your more notable sales?
A: I enjoy working with artists and creative people of all kinds. Recently I listed a lovely, secluded soundfront property on five acres that had been an artist’s home and studio, complete with murals on the walls and floors. My client was the artist’s daughter, and it was important to her that it pass to someone who would appreciate and continue the creative spirit of the place. And in fact, a prominent artist did buy it, who I’m sure will love it as much as the previous family.
Marianne Collins
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
[email protected]
631-734-2957 direct
917-434-1463 cell
