She was born in Seattle and has lived in New Orleans and Washington, D.C., but Sandy Jacobson of Coldwell Banker Premier Group is true blue to St. Lou. “I love the strong sense of community here,” she says. Jacobson, who used to rehab older homes for resale and develop new properties, has been with Coldwell Banker since 2008. “I can’t go anywhere without seeing someone I know. I love it!” She lives in University City. Daughter
Haley, 22, teaches English in China; son Adam, 20, is a website/app designer and songwriter in Los Angeles.
[barrel fever]
I dreamed of being a champion barrel racer as a kid. I showed horses when I was young, and raced for fun. I love animals and majored in zoology at George Washington University in D.C.
[first sale]
It had been listed previously but didn’t move. There were multiple offers and a lot of tension between the sellers, a divorcing couple. I was so nervous, but my broker guided me. It went smoothly, and I’ve had the opportunity to serve those clients again.
[biggest sale ever]
$1.3 million.
[the right stuff]
To be a successful agent requires a willingness to work very hard. You also need to be organized, with strong negotiating, research, analysis and communication skills. And a sense of humor goes a long way!
[cool is the rule]
I believe in maintaining a calm demeanor and respectful attitude toward everyone involved in the transaction.
[when the bubble burst]
When everything went haywire in 2007 and ’08, I redoubled my efforts, attained two certifications in distressed properties, and changed my mindset to match the times.
[state of the market]
Right now we’re in a strong seller’s marker with a lot of pent-up buyer demand. Prices are higher in sought-after areas and for homes that are nicely updated. It’s not uncommon to have multiple offers on a home, and many sell above list price. I’m also starting to see more buyers who are open to a home that needs updating.
[straight talk]
If your house has been on the market and isn’t budging, you need to make a change. I usually recommend updates, a price adjustment, or both. Statistics show homes sold within the first 30 days sell for a higher percentage of their original asking price than homes that take longer to sell.
[the softer side]
Yes, selling homes is a way to make a living. But that’s not the only motivation. People don’t realize how much pride agents take in providing
outstanding client service.
[hitting rewind]
At the end of a crazy day, I like to stretch, lift weights and run.
[most longed-for talent]
I wish I had Pink’s voice.
