REAL Exclusive Magazine

Roger C. Pettingell – Coldwell Banker Previews

Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa

Photography by Chad Spencer

Long known for his positive outlook on the opportunities in real estate, Roger Pettingell is holding his ground. Despite challenges posed to agents, their clients and other professionals in the industry, he remains optimistic about the market. And it’s not blind faith talking: Roger closed 2008 as the number 1 Coldwell Banker agent in Florida, as well as the top-producing Realtor® in the Sarasota & Manatee County Board of Realtors®, noting that, production wise, it was the second-best year of his career. He attributes his success to a team approach, which enables him to offer his clients exceptional service throughout each transaction and beyond.

“I’m constantly refining my systems, keeping up with print and Internet marketing, and focusing on advertising my properties rather than myself,” explains Roger of his successful approach to the business. At a time when many agents are cutting corners, Roger is maintaining his comprehensive marketing plan, which includes extensive print advertising and individual websites for each listing he represents.

A technologically savvy businessman, Roger is a member of CyberStars, a nationwide group of real estate professionals who network and share ideas through virtual message boards, webinars and annual meetings. “This is a great opportunity for a select group of agents from different markets to bounce ideas off of each other,” he says. “We’re sharing best practices and brainstorming solutions to professional challenges.”

Roger networks locally as well, and makes himself available to his fellow real estate professionals. He regularly appears at showings of his listings, offering information and support to the buyers’ agents. “We know the product, and have the ability to make the buyer’s agent look good and to assist in selling a property,” he explains. “It just makes sense for us to be as hands-on as possible.” His positive attitude has become a signature trait, and Roger acknowledges that it has helped him to stay successful during a transitioning market. “Trends aside, nothing has changed in the product that we’re selling,” he says. “It’s just as beautiful here as it has always been, and our amenities, community, culture and lifestyle are continuing to thrive. Now there are opportunities for more individuals to enjoy life in Sarasota and to get in at a lower investment price and great interest rates. It’s almost unbelievable!”

His dedication to his profession is matched only by his commitment to clients: an empathetic and nurturing individual, Roger strives to offer “the whole package.” He explains, “This isn’t just about making a sale.  It’s beginning to end of a transaction, then indefinite follow-up.” Monthly communication keeps clients updated on market trends and keeps Roger in their lives as a trusted resource. He has also hosted memorable client appreciation parties, including events at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Beach Club and the Historic Asolo Theater. Roger and his wife Alisa have also opened their home to clients for several gatherings.

Finding success in the demanding profession of real estate often means sacrificing personal time and outside endeavors, but Roger has refused to relinquish a well-rounded lifestyle. “In order to feel complete, I have to have a balance between work, family and community,” he says. In addition to spending time with his wife and the couple’s young sons Max and Jake, Roger has also been involved in Southeastern Guide Dogs for the past decade. “It’s an amazing organization,” he says enthusiastically. In addition to raising puppies, who are trained to act as companions for visually-impaired individuals, Roger now serves on the group’s Board of Directors.

A member of Coldwell Banker’s prestigious “Legends Society,” Roger looks forward to continuing to provide his clients with exceptional service, and to promoting the Sarasota lifestyle to its fullest. “This is a great time to invest in our market,” he states. “I’m excited to make the most of what our business has to offer, and to use the current market conditions to increase my market share.” Chances are, he’ll do it successfully. And he’ll do it with a smile.

Roger Pettingell
Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate
201 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Suite 1
Longboat Key, FL 34228
Telephone: 941-387-1840
www.LongboatRealEstate.com
realroger@comcast.net