BancWise Realty is a locally owned company specializing in residential real estate sales, and differs from traditional real estate companies because they are able to offer commission options without sacrificing service. Joe Courtney has been a Realty Specialist with BancWise for about 7 years helping buyers and sellers in the Lincoln area.
How did you get started in the business? – About 7 years ago one of my best friends Bob Wayne recruited me to be his assistant. It was a tough decision to leave the corporate world and salary to start a new business, but it was the best decision I ever made. I absolutely love what I do!
What is the biggest challenge you face professionally? – It’s challenging to inform home sellers that their home isn’t worth what they thought. Unfortunately, it is necessary in order to set clear expectations. In the end, if it is overpriced it won’t sell and I didn’t do my job. Making sure the seller understands how I came up with the suggested price is crucial.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Being named BancWise salesperson of the year at my firm for 2012. I was also ranked 3rd of 700+ Realtors in the Lincoln area for my 2012 residential real estate sales volume. It feels good when the hard work pays off!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Definitely getting into real estate. It isn’t as easy as some think but if you work hard and do the right things you will be successful. You have to answer to yourself and control your own destiny. It’s interesting how working late for someone else isn’t much fun but when you work late for yourself you embrace it.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I’m into nature photography. Landscapes, trees, flowers, water, clouds, mountains…I love it all.
What are you the most proud of? – That approximately 75% of my business comes from referrals, which tells me that I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing. Knowing that I am giving my all and my clients appreciate it enough to entrust me with their friends and family is really what gets me up in the morning!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – The “Platinum Rule” to treat others how they want to be treated. Everyone is different and I work with people from all walks of life.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – I would like to be able to read minds! Sometimes I wonder “what were they thinking?!”
What is your favorite TV show? – Currently Property Wars on Discovery Channel. I enjoy everything real estate related!
What is your favorite local restaurant? Venue – You can’t go wrong with the Three By The Sea and a dirty martini!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can stop by my office at 6120 Apples Way Suite 100 (right by Lowes in SE Lincoln), visit www.bancwise.com or contact me directly at (402) 304-1583 or joe.courtney@bancwise.com.