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, we are family focused and motivating in positive impacts in the communities!

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, CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member), 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 obtained through the RLI (Realtor Land Institute). The CCIM designation is considered the elite network of commercial agents with extensive training, tests, and approval process.  John is the only CCIM in this area.  

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, what their current main income occupation is, what their occupations were before they decided to get their real estate license, how long they have had their license, and who was training them as a licensee. Many agents get a license for the "extra money," without proper training that could be very detrimental to unsuspecting clients and their finances. 

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 driver's 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 that is highly experienced in the type of transaction you are interested in. 

John's previous experience includes a variety real estate related occupations in construction, heavy equipment operation, arboriculture industry, helping with agriculture 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 ethics, professionalism, and knowledge.  Real Estate is not just our business, it's our way of life!

john@sweeneyrealestate.com

563-568-4170