Name: John Grimes
Job Title: Realtor
Company: BHGRE Metro Brokers
What was your first job in the industry? Investor
Where did you grow up? Roswell
Growing up, what did you want to be? Indiana Jones
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Hike
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? “Jesus- so many questions!”
Where is your favorite place to hang out? Home in Marietta with my family.
What do you love most about the industry? There are so many things I love about this field. I get to be a part of the benchmarks in my clients’ lives and help them make the best moves they possibly can. I love to celebrate the closing of old chapters and opening of new chapters of their lives.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I sincerely put my client’s interest as the focus and true North in our transaction. I had buyers want to offer on homes we both knew were not right for them. I remind them what their goals are and encourage them not to settle for something not quite right. My seller clients hear what they need to hear which is not always what they want to hear. I work hard and market my clients’ homes aggressively. Sellers that work with me are delighted to get top dollar quickly.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? There is always something to be done. A good Realtor must switch gears so many times during the day and many times at night to make sure their clients are protected.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I put very little effort into acquiring new clients. My focus is on protecting my current clients and making sure they have the very best experience they can. My clients have been fantastic about rewarding my laser focus by being my sales force. 90% of my business is repeat business or client referrals.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? My two sweet girls are my pride and joy!
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I am almost done reading the “New Testament”. It’s my first time reading it straight through, I am embarrassed to admit. There is so much love and wisdom there. I could have benefited from it even more earlier in life, but it is never too late. I read a lot of Real Estate and business books to continually improve my craft. I have found a lot of great insight in “The One Thing”, “Five Second Rule”, “Rich Dad, Poor Dad”, “The Millionaire Agent”, “7 Habits”, etc…
What is your favorite restaurant? Kiosco on the Marietta Square is delicious; Henrys Grill on Main Street in Acworth, Ted’s Montana Grill at the Avenue in West Cobb and AJ’s Cajun in East Cobb. I used to think “restaurant quality” was a compliment. My wife’s culinary skills have turned that on its head. Although the Atlanta area has many world class restaurants, my favorite place to eat is at home.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? I like the Westin Peachtree Plaza. It is a landmark building that is easy to pick out in the Atlanta skyline.
What kind of car do you drive? 2016 Nissan Altima. I drove two trucks for about 15 years each. When my Nissan Frontier got totaled after it got hot from behind, I survived to get something presentable, but not too fancy and the Altima for the bill. I like it, but miss having a truck. When my 12 year old becomes a driver, she might inherit it, so I can get a four door truck.
Smartphone or paper? Got to have my Samsung Galaxy. I do use a little notebook too, to take notes and brain dump.
What is your favorite city after Atlanta? New Orleans
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Work hard and take great care of your clients.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? HomeSnap
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? What is Twitter? LOL! Facebook and Instagram are my main social media outlets. I like to network with other Realtors. In case my client is moving out of town, it is important that I put them in good hands at their destination.