Often I advise buyers to write a letter with their offers. It can help differentiate them from competing offers (yes! We have those). I can also help soften the blow of a lower offer. As it turns out, I’m not the only one doing this. I loved this article in the times.

Time Article

I’ve included my big announcement below. Welcome, Brandon!

Happy New Year.

I hope this finds you well and ready for 2012. It’s been a jam-packed year in real estate. Between filming an episode of House Hunters and traveling to Chicago for the National Association of Realtors 30 Under 30 conference it was a year of firsts. The most notable aspect of real estate this year has been my continued appreciation for a job that I find so fulfilling. When I reflect on my career I consider myself extremely fortunate to derive such joy and purpose from my job. My clients continue to amaze me as they tend to be an impressive and kind collection of professionals, students and families. I remark often that I have the best clients in the world and I really do think that’s true.

Because of your continued support I have decided that growing my team is the next best step. As I made the decision to hire a full-time agent (in addition to the extremely valuable Randi Fox) I was nervous that I would not find someone who fit with my model of client care and priorities. I decided to shoot high and contacted a fantastic agent, Brandon Jozwiak, and asked him to join me. Thankfully he agreed and starting January 1 he and I will be working together as a team. Brandon is an excellent agent with a deep commitment to the best interest of his clients. He takes his role as advocate seriously and works tirelessly for his clients. He lives in Durham with his lovely wife, Laura, and you can read more about him on our website. Randi is, as always, an invaluable addition and will continue to serve a support role.

As we move forward you will continue to contact me directly but can also expect to hear from Brandon or Randi. Any client that works with me will actually be represented by all three agents. My goal with this change is that clients can expect increased availability and improved response time.

Please let us know if you have any questions at all and we will look forward to an exciting 2012!

All our best,

Jessica, Brandon, and Randi