John has been a full time licensed Realtor since 2009.  "But my training didn't start there.  I am a 3rd generation sales representative at Sweeney Real Estate, so we do not consider our occupation a job or a hobby but a way of life!"

John has served on the local city Planning and Zoning Board, Board of Adjustment, Iowa Real Estate Commission, Northeast Iowa Board of Realtors, has earned the designations, ALC (Accredited Land Consultant), CNE (Certified Negotiating Expert), and earned Individual Achievement Awards on a yearly basis through the Iowa Association of Realtors. The ALC designation requires many extensive hours of extra education, testing, land sales transactions, and application process to be obtain through the RLI (Realtor Land Institute). 

There are many self proclaimed "land specialists" or "local experts" flooding the markets that may not have prior, relevant experience. Being thorough on your research when choosing an agent is more important than ever.  I always suggest checking around on previous sale transactions to make sure they are in fact full time agents and what what their occupations were before they decided to get their real estate licenses, how long they have had their licenses, and who was training them as a licensee.  Would you go to a CNA for heart surgery? Even choosing the right professional for your specific type of property is also very important, whether it is a home, acreage, new construction, land, recreational property, or commercial. Anyone could get a drivers license, doesn't mean they are ready to drive a semi or a race car. Buying or selling real estate is one of the biggest decisions in most people's lives, be sure to choose the right agent. 

Previous experience includes a variety real estate related occupations in construction, heavy equipment operation, arboriculture industry, helping out on farming jobs.  Being raised in Allamakee County, "Iowa's playground" hobbies have including hunting, fishing, canoeing, hiking, camping, motorcycle riding, and almost everything this beautiful area has to offer.  Having grown up in the real estate business, John knows the importance of being available for Buyers and Sellers at their convenience.  He takes great pride in higher standards of professionalism and knowledge.  Real Estate is not just our business, it's our way of life!

john@sweeneyrealestatate.com