REAL Exclusive Magazine

RECHARGED….. on St. Armands Circle

By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa
Photography By Chad Spencer

 
If there is one message Coldwell Banker International Previews broker/manager Michelle Burke-Phillips wants to share, it is this: There’s no need to compromise. Despite a transitioning market that has given rise to its fair share of challenges, Burke-Phillips and the professionals at Coldwell Banker International Previews, St. Armands Circle, continue to sharpen their skills, build their listing inventory portfolio, generate sales and focus on positioning for a stronger future.

She has spent nearly three decades in real estate management within the Sarasota region, and Burke-Phillips remains relentlessly optimistic about her profession. She recently joined Coldwell Banker International Previews, and is confident about the St. Armand’s Circle office’s unique environment. “We offer all of the amenities of a boutique office, including the ability to move quickly as the dynamics of our market and clients change,” she explains. “We also have the backing of NRT, the world’s largest residential real estate entity, which affords us extraordinary financial stability along with exceptional resources and tools. It truly is the best of both worlds!”

At a time when many agents –and brokerages- have been struggling to keep their businesses afloat, the Coldwell Banker International Previews office at St. Armands is experiencing an exciting growth trend. “We’re in a building mode, which is one of the main features that attracted me to this office,” notes Burke-Phillips.

The St. Armands office affords not only a prime location for walk-in clientele, but also an experienced group of real estate sales professionals who specialize in all aspects of the Sarasota real estate market.” We are not a ‘one size fits all’ organization,” notes Burke-Phillips. “With at least seven languages spoken within our office, we represent a great cultural and professional diversity. From experienced veterans to new real estate sale professionals, what we have in common is a dedication to hard work, a love of what we do, and a shared vision of world-class customer care.” Agent Valerie Wadsworth recently named a candidate for the 2009 Frank G. Berlin, Sr. “Young Professional of the Year” award and serves as a great example of the next generation of real estate entrepreneurs.

Sue Wolverton, Sr. Vice President Southwest Region, explains the value of the brand’s strong worldwide presence, stating, “Coldwell Banker Previews International has the connections that align our sales associates and their customers’ multimillion dollar properties with the most powerful network of luxury specialists in the world.” Lena White, newly appointed Manager of International and Previews Divisions, commenting on the company’s strong Internet presence, adds, “By maximizing our online advertising, we offer the unparalleled opportunity to showcase a property instantly and effectively to clients worldwide. Potential homebuyers from one hundred and seventy four countries in six continents visited www.FloridaMoves.com in January of 2009 alone.”

The St. Armands office’s unique blend of boutique atmosphere with the powerful backing of a world-class brand has attracted top agents including Gigi Silverberg and Anne Chakos, who recently joined the firm. “Coming from a smaller office, I appreciate the environment that the St. Armands location offers,” says Silverberg. “Additionally, we’ve got an incredible location that caters to high-end clientele, and premium tools to market our clients’ high-end homes. It’s a unique atmosphere that is well-suited to our area’s luxury real estate market.”

Thinking abundantly and maintaining a positive attitude is Michelle Burke-Phillips’ leadership style, and she’s inspiring those around her to do the same. “We’re working together, keeping a focus on the customer service that we offer our sales associates and their clients,” she says. “This is a challenging time, but we are confident that the beauty and culture of living in Sarasota will continue to attract a wide variety of domestic and global clients.

Coldwell Banker International Previews
St. Armands
423 St. Armands Circle
Sarasota, FL 34236
Office: 941-388-3966
www.FloridaMoves.com

Left to Right: Lena White, Sue Wolverton, Anne Chakos, Gigi Silverberg, Michelle Burke-Phillips