Lifestyle Realtor – “Living the Dream”
Q: How long have you lived in New Smyrna Beach and what brought you here?
A: I grew up in Ponce Inlet so I was always pretty close. We came and surfed this side a lot as kids. I was lucky enough that my job with Billabong allowed me to move around in my 20s and 30s. I lived in NYC, Toronto and Newport Beach before I decided to move back to New Smyrna. New Smyrna was an easy decision as my spot to settle down about five years ago; I already had close friends here and knew the area very well.
Q: When did you join the NSB Homes team and why did you choose them as your broker?
A: David Kosmas and his wife, Donna, sold my wife, Stephanie Rae Ford, and I a home a couple of years ago and we became good friends in the process. Once I got my license as an agent, I knew I wanted to be with a local team. The reputation that David, Donna and NSB Homes has in the NSB community is stellar. I have always had a passion for sales and real estate, so this really was a natural fit for me. We have a small team of professionals here with a “work hard, play hard” mentality. I respect the “family” culture that David and Donna have cultivated as well.
Q: You are known as an, “NSB Native Lifestyle Expert” in your industry. Explain what the means and how it gives your clients an advantage.
A: We grew up here, we live here and we are involved in this community. We have in depth, “locals only knowledge,” that outsiders just don’t have. We love helping folks find their NSB lifestyle and discover why we love it so much. We don’t just sell you a home, we go one step further and show you around the town from my favorite watering hole, NSB Brewery, to NSB High School (GO CUDAS!) I use the tagline, “Living the Dream” because I really feel like that’s what I’m doing here. If I’m not working, I’m definitely out enjoying all of the activities New Smyrna has to offer.
Q: Are you only selling properties in New Smyrna Beach or do you cover a larger territory?
A: I focus on New Smyrna and Edgewater and grow into Ponce Inlet, Port Orange and Daytona Beach. If someone is looking for something outside of this area, I will usually refer them to an agent I know in that market. I think it’s best to sell what you know, and people appreciate that.
Q: Do you have a specific focus of real estate you prefer to work in?
A: I mainly sell residential homes and condos, as that is what this market bears. I do some commercial as well when a friend or client in the area is looking to grow. NSB Homes just hired on Pete Klironomos as our commercial expert and launched our commercial division.
Q: What sets you apart from other Realtors in our area?
A: This business is very much about relationships. With a lot of my clients, I feel like I am not only introducing them to myself, but also all of the great things this area has to offer and how that fits into their lifestyle needs. I believe that if I can get to know the people I am working with, I can really narrow in on what they want, and why they want it. This builds trust and friendship, which I think is very important in the home buying process. Now, more than ever, reviews and recommendations are so important when finding an agent, so you better be good the first time. I was also voted the “Rising Star” last year by the New Smyrna Board of Realtors.
Q: If someone is interested in listing their home, what do you recommend they do prior to putting it on the market?
A: Call me! Seriously, the first thing they should do is call a real estate agent. This is what we do everyday. We can advise on price and the little things you can do to make your house stand out or be more competitive. We know the market because we are in the market everyday. Find a professional, and you will sell your home quicker and for more money, with less stress.
Q: On average how long does it take to sell a home in our area?
A: Average is 45 days to contract. The good ones, that are priced right, will sell before we can get them on the market. Like anything, time is money. Some folks need to sell quick, others want to try and squeeze top dollar out of their home. My job is to do both!
Q: From beachside to the river, there are so many unique places to live. If you could place your dream home in any location, where would it be?
A: For me, it would have to be on the river on the north end of town. I love being on the water. It would have to have a pool, a killer outdoor kitchen and plenty of garage space for all of the toys. If I had a house on the river, I would probably need a bigger boat, too!
Q: Residents in our area have such an appreciation for giving back to the community. In what ways are you and NSB Homes donating your time and resources?
A: Resources definitely help, but I really believe in putting the time in. I am the chairperson of the Community Outreach and Scholarship Committee for the Board of Realtors. We do builds with Habitat for Humanity every year, throw events with the Boys and Girls Club, do fundraisers and toy drives for Gifts of Love and so much more. There are so many awesome organizations helping people out here. I think it’s one of the things that set this town apart. My wife works for Easterseals here in Volusia County. Giving back and being involved is something we do together as much as we can.
Travis Ford – NSB Homes
318 Palmetto St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
NSB Homes: (386) 855-8450 / Travis direct: 386-690-1664 / Travis office: 386-427-0439
TravisFord@nsbhomes.com