For Charter One Realty agent Jennifer Johnson, real estate isn’t merely a line of work — it’s a calling. This top-performing agent has been representing buyers and sellers in the Lowcountry since 2017, and she's established quite a track record.
Jennifer tells Charter One Realty about her affinity for real estate and her deep connection to the Lowcountry and shares some advice for buyers.
Charter One Realty: When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career in real estate?
Jennifer Johnson: I knew I wanted to pursue a career in real estate when I was a first-time homebuyer. I realized that I can help homebuyers locate or sell real estate and deliver an exceptional experience just like my first agent did. She made it look easy. Now I know it's not and that's why buyers and sellers need an expert to help them get desired results!
Charter One Realty: Tell Us About Your Start in the Business. How Did the First Year Go?
Jennifer Johnson: My first year was in 2017, and I did well for a first-timer. I initially worked in new construction as the builder's listing agent and learned so much! It helped prepare me to be a great listing agent, how to help buyers, and transition from builder sales to general brokerage.
Charter One Realty: What’s kept you in the business after your initial success?
Jennifer Johnson: I love being a real estate matchmaker! Seeing my buyers happy after helping them locate the right property and my sellers ecstatic when they cash in on the equity they hoped for to move on to their next stage of life brings me great joy.
Charter One Realty: What's One Common Mistake You See Prospective Buyers Make?
Jennifer Johnson: Many buyers underestimate upfront homebuying costs, forgo inspections, and close on new construction before the builder has completed the home. Buyers also often believe they can represent themselves when buying new construction, and it costs them more or is a headache in the end. Having representation when you buy new construction is so important. Since I used to represent the builder side, I know exactly what buyers should keep in mind when purchasing new construction.
Charter One Realty: If you weren't working in real estate, is there anything else you could see yourself doing?
Jennifer Johnson: Previously, I worked in Marketing, Human Resources, and government. However, my favorite field has been real estate and always will be.
Charter One Realty: What advice do you have for buyers looking in the Lowcountry?
Jennifer Johnson: Buyers in Savannah and the Lowcountry area should consider flood insurance, even if the flood zone their home is in does not require it. Additionally, tax areas are different, and some cost more. I also make sure to remind buyers to apply for all tax exemptions they can qualify for. Many don't realize they have to initiate the application for the tax exemption to be applied.
Charter One Realty: Where are you from originally, and how did you come to live in the Lowcountry?
Jennifer Johnson: I'm originally from Columbus, GA, on the opposite side of the state. My husband and I moved here from Asheville, NC, because we were attracted to the area, the weather, the proximity to vacation spots, and for his position with the Savannah Fire department.
Charter One Realty: Please Tell Us About Your Neighborhood and Your Home.
Jennifer Johnson: Our neighborhood is conveniently located 10 minutes from Savannah and 10 minutes from Pooler off of the I-17. We have a 3,000 sq ft. two-story home that I love to redecorate at least twice a year.
Charter One Realty: Can You Tell Us Why Your Community is so Special to You?
Jennifer Johnson: The location can't be beaten. It's convenient to I-16, I-95, and shopping in Savannah and Pooler.
Charter One Realty: How would you describe the vibe in the Lowcountry?
Jennifer Johnson: Lowcountry living is easy, and friendly, and the community takes care of one another.
Charter One Realty: Have You Seen the Lowcountry Change - From Both a Personal and Professional Perspective?
Jennifer Johnson: There has been an influx of new national and international residents to the Savannah/Pooler market and an increase in the need for more retail, new construction, and rental properties. It is a fast-growing area but has still maintained its Lowcountry feel.
Charter One Realty: What are some of your favorite aspects of life in the Lowcountry?
Jennifer Johnson: The weather here is great. Warm most of the year with about 1 month of fall (December), 1 month of winter (January), and 1 month of spring (February).
Charter One Realty: What are Your Favorite Shops and Restaurants in our Community and Why?
Jennifer Johnson: My favorite restaurants would be local restaurants in downtown Savannah. There are too many, and they are all good! That's the great thing about Savannah. No shortage of great restaurant options.
Charter One Realty: Do you have a personal motto or mantra that guides you?
Jennifer Johnson: Always do everything you do with integrity, kindness, and understanding.
Charter One Realty: Please complete the sentence: “Home wouldn’t be home without . . .”
Jennifer Johnson: the people you love.
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