MEET THE REALTOR: Kathy Akel works with Generation Homes to meet new homeowner’s expectations and vision
Realtor Kathy Akel represents the personal builders at Generation Homes introducing new homes on Scott Mill Road in Jacksonville’s Mandarin area off San Jose Boulevard.
She joined Watson Realty’s Mandarin North Office in January of 2010.
“My husband was the one that encouraged me to get my real estate licenses. And that made a lot of sense,” recalls Kathy. “During my time in Birmingham, Ala. I was working for my family business, the largest flooring company in the Southeast, as an interior designer.”
Kathy assisted builders and their clients in selecting finishes for their new homes. Real estate was a perfect transition for working with builders and homeowners. Kathy’s husband, Jack Akel, owns Andy’s Sandwich Shoppe.
“When I started this business all I did was pick up the phone and started calling friends, family members, neighbors, builders asking for their business or if they might know someone looking to buy or sell a home,” she said.
Over the years she has learned how to balance the important aspects of her life, personal and professional, making it possible to achieve her dreams for motherhood, and being a Realtor.
This is important in understanding what new owners are looking for when thinking about buying a home.
“Before a buyer makes a decision to buy a new home, they will decide on location first and school district. Many are looking for open floor concept with some architectural elements to the home,” she said.
Homeowners have shown more interest in having a big and beautiful kitchen, with stainless appliances. The kitchens have become an informal gathering place.
“I think the kitchen is the main focal points for buyers looking to buy a new home. Also, buyers wanting the home to “flow properly from one room to another,” she said.
The design and construction attributes of Generation Homes help Kathy meet new homeowner’s expectations and vision.
According to Kathy “At Generation Homes’ it’s called ‘attention to detail’ when it comes to listening and caring. “Whether it’s a charming Porcelain fireplace surrounded by elegant lighting, or hardwood flooring, Generation Homes’ architectural elements wonderfully appealing.”
These details along with many others, based on personal taste and style, are some of the most important design factors that Generation Homes, provides in every custom home.
“For me this awareness and keen sense of style came when I first met Cora Johnston (Generation Homes President),” remembers Kathy. “I was watching her make changes to the window placements for each room, to make sure furniture will fit properly or relocating the garage to make sure it was proportion with the lot and other factors.”
She insures then that Generation Homes’ pays attention to every detail and preapproves each home plan before they break ground.
“This is one way that sets Generation Home apart from other builders. They perceive the potential for your dream home in ways that most other builders can’t,” she said. “She (Cora) assists you in establishing your priorities, encompassing your ideas that recognizes personal style which means creating a comfort and classic detail.”
Two new homes being built on Scott Mill Road are no exception. The overall health and growth of the local real estate market has been steady.
“It looks great,” noted Kathy. “Jacksonville is one of the best places to move to and invest. My sales have been strong this year and I have hit my goals numbers.”
Generation Homes is building in Ponte Vedra Beach, Vilano Beach, St. Augustine Beach, Sea Grove, Anastasia Dunes, Sea Colony. Marsh Creek, Whispering Oaks and on various lots in St. Johns and Flagler Beach, Beach Haven, Oceanside in Palm Coast, in historic Beauclerc in Jacksonville as well as on private lots in Northeast Florida
For more information call Donna Sadowski at (904) 955-4769 and visit www.generationhomesusa.com.