Hello from West Michigan -Grand Rapids, Mi

[Dan Farkas]

Hello everyone! My name is Dan and I am a full time Real Estate Broker in West Michigan. I have been practicing the representation of the Buying and Selling public since 2004 when I earned my license. I represent anywhere from 25-60 people each year in their Condo, vacation home, investment or move up/down purchase and sale. Since 2012 the Greater Grand Rapids metropolitan area has enjoyed a 5-10% yearly increase in the average sale price of a home so there has been special challenges to this market which is different then the previous buyers market just around ten years ago from 2007-2012. In that time my focus was more about representing REO companies such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, HUD and others. I also represented many sellers at that time in their short sales. Being a Realtor during these changing markets has given me a unique perspective of the industry that has only increased my overall knowledge of my industry and for that I am thankful. I recently became an investor with my first duplex rental on the South Side of town in a Suburb called Wyoming. I came here to learn more about the process of renting out the duplex and growing a more passive income as I have not been down this road personally before. I imagine most rental situations are unique and I am looking forward to learning from the challenges and growing from them. Ultimately, I would like to grow my rental business to the point of stepping up into the commercial world which definitely intrigues me to the point of nervousness. Somewhere I read that “if your dreams dont scare you then they aren’t big enough” so I guess I am heading in that direction a bit so I will take that as a good sign. 😀 Anyways I am always looking to grow my industry network in this area. Whether that be mortgage professionals, tradesmen, lawyers or other professionals in the area I am always eager to meet new people. My work ethic is one that I pride myself on. I will always conduct my business in a manner based on integrity and the golden rule. These two underlying mannerisms have treated me well in this industry and its something I believe in. I also believe in continued education. It is an area that I spend a great deal of time on also. Ultimately, I guess that is why I am here. In my spare time which seems like there is next to none these days, I like and enjoy the outdoors. If I only have a few minutes to an hour I will bike or go for a run. If I have a few more hours I like to golf, kayak or fish. When the time comes that I have a few days I combine a few of those activities into a weekend camping get away. In the off chance I get a week for a vacation I like to visit other states or even Canada with a focus on very sparse population locations for its natural beauty. Anyways, thats a bit about me. I am looking forward in hearing a few of your stories as well.