It is the mission of The Macklin Group with Platinum Living Realty and its associates to provide the highest quality, innovative, and exceptional real estate service anywhere in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area
Our clients needs always come first. We will strive to always provide value far in excess of our clients’ expectations Our goal is mutual respect and long term relationships that are beneficial to all parties
Our operation is a great place to work and do business. We are positive, helpful, and enthusiastic at all times- always focusing on solutions, not challenges We take care of business first and foremost, but have fun and enjoy ourselves in the process. We run a clean, organized, and efficient operation.
We always adhere to the highest standards of integrity and ethical business practices We constantly strive to create, develop, and implement new ideas and strategies that will benefit our clients. We seek continuing education in all aspects of our business to increase the level of service we offer to our clients.
We are one of the fastest growing real estate firms comprised of premier real estate professionals in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area. Our office locations are spread throughout the valley in North Scottsdale, Wickenburg, and Gilbert
Buying and selling houses in today’s complex market requires knowledge, creativity, experience, and enthusiasm Platinum Living Realty provides unparalleled service & expertise Marketing & selling property in our economy today requires a specialist. The extensive roster of highly skilled and multitalented sales associates are ready to assist you.
Specializing in luxury real estate services all over the Phoenix area, we offer a diverse collection of properties from cozy single family residences in welcoming neighborhoods like Anthem to ultra luxury properties in Paradise Valley with prices ranging from the $100,000’s into the millions
NORTH SCOTTSDALE- CORPORATE OFFICE
20551 N Pima Rd, Suite 200
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
WICKENBURG
OFFICE
10 S Kerkes St, Suite 4
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
NEWPORT BEACH OFFICE
120 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92661
ABOUT ME
Bret Ceren is a real estate industry veteran since 2014 and has been quoted in Forbes, Better Homes & Gardens, MSN, MarketWatch, Yahoo! Finance, and CBS Money Watch for his perspectives on the market. He has also been recognized by the Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors® as a 40 Under 40 in 2019 In 2021, he was named in Real Trends’ Movers & Shakers
In addition to directly helping clients, Bret has been a real estate coach since 2017 and has coached over 250 agents across North America. He holds an MBA in Finance from Grand Canyon University and is an Associate Broker with Platinum Living Realty. Bret's unique trademarked systems and processes are designed to deliver superior results in your real estate transaction while his family's military and first responder backgrounds have instilled a focus on service for his clients
MEET THE MACKLIN GROUP
We believe that buying a home in today’s market requires planning, training, and advanced systems in order to help clients get the best possible price, with the least amount of stress, in the shortest period of time
The synergy of our team, comprising individuals, technology, and processes, ensures seamless transactions from start to finish.
Jay Macklin Owner/Designated Broker
Michelle Macklin Owner/Team Lead
Bret Ceren MBA/Associate Broker/Team Coach
Laura Holl Real Estate Partner/Team Marketing
Lynise Trice Real Estate Partner
Will Dietz Real Estate Partner
Amber Nicoletti Transaction Coordinator
Denise Lennick-Meier Real Estate Partner
Valerie Turley Real Estate Partner
EXPERIENCE OUR VIP SUPPORT STAFF
Michelle Sherman North Scottsdale Office Coordinator
Michelle is the first point of contact for our agents and clients once they enter the office She helps with agent office questions, scheduling appointments with staff and leadership, and creates and prints out our window displays for all of our locations
Konni Cormier
Closing Coordinator
As the Closing Coordinator for Platinum Living Realty, Konni expedites the closing process for the agents. She strives to deliver a high level of service to the Agents throughout their closing process.
Billy Francisco Graphic Designer
With a keen eye for design and a passion for making properties shine, Billy crafts captivating visuals that grab attention and drive sales. From eye-catching brochures to stunning online ads, Billy's designs elevate our listings and set us apart from the competition With his talent and dedication, every property gets the star treatment it deserves
A personal message from Bret
Thank you for the privilege of providing you this information, as well as the consideration and possible opportunity to serve you in the sale of your home If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask
Once you ’ ve had an opportunity to review the information in this guide book, I’d like to meet with you and discuss how I may be able to help you meet your goals Thank you, again I look forward to talking together soon
Services Provided to My Buyers
Why buy a home?
Every reason comes down to one root cause: life change
Maybe you want a newer or bigger home, or you’d like a different school for your children? Perhaps you’d like to be closer to family or work? Or, are you tired of renting? Whatever the reason, you know you need something else than what you have The buyers I’ve had the pleasure of serving have found that next home Meeting you to give you the keys to your new home is one of the best experiences – one I look forward to for each and every buyer.
Before we get to that point, there’s a lot of work that I help navigate so that we can find – and close on – the place you love.
Take a look at the KEY areas for more information on how I will support you in your home buying process.
01
02
Help You Find Your Home: What community is best for you? What type of home are you looking for? What do you need - and want - to make the house you buy be a home you look forward to being in every day? I help you identify those things, then together we'll find it!
03
Regular Search Market Updates: The real estate market changes everyday - new homes become available, others go under contract and close I'll set up searches that will email you regular updates so that you know the latest!
04
Partnering with Lenders: Many buyers need or want the help of a lender to purchase a home I have many strong local and national lendersI've worked with and can recommend based on your specific needs and requirements. Let's get you pre-qualified to buy the home you love.
05
Negotiations: Getting You the Best Deal: What's a home worth? Whatever someone is willing to pay for it. But what about the home you love? My proprietary market analyses will help you know what a home is worth BEFORE we get the appraisal, so that you get the best deal you can on the home you want.
Inspections & Repair Process: Before you can close on your home, you should consider having a professional inspection done; if there are needed repairs, how do you handle that with the seller? Together we identify what's needed - and how to get it done - so that your home is move-in ready once closed
Contract to Closing: We'll communicate regularly every week to make sure your home purchase stays on track - and that you get to make it yours I'm always available by phone/text and email so thaty ou know what's happening and what to expect next Before you know it, we'll be meeting to give you the keys to your new home Mission Accomplished! 06
HOW WE FIND HOMES
HOW OTHER AGENTS FIND HOMES
OUR NEGOTIATION STRATEGY
Leveraging Strategic Questioning:
Our negotiation strategy hinges on asking precise questions that extract crucial information from the listing agent, empowering us with valuable leverage
Mastering Sales Techniques:
Our agents are equipped with an arsenal of sales techniques honed through Platinum Living Realty's rigorous certification program With multiple hours of negotiation training under their belts, they approach each deal with confidence and finesse.
Utilizing Comparable Sales Data:
We don't just negotiate blindly; we rely on solid data to support our positions. By pulling comparable sales, we establish a logical basis for our negotiation tactics, ensuring that every offer is grounded in sound reasoning
Aggressive Representation:
Understanding your goals and objectives is paramount to us. We represent you aggressively, advocating for your interests with creativity and unwavering confidence
Strategic and Confident Approach:
With a deep understanding of market dynamics and negotiation principles, we approach each deal with strategic foresight and unyielding confidence, aiming to achieve the best possible outcomes for you.
Other Agents Negotiation Strategy involves letting the buyer negotiate on their own, and they just facilitate the paperwork.
OUR TECHNOLOGY & PROGRAMS
The foundation of our superior performance in representing buyers is built upon technology, people, programs, and systems. We stand out from other agents by harnessing cutting-edge technology that enables us to source properties in a unique and proprietary manner This technology gives our clients at Platinum Living Realty exclusive access to homes before they are made available to the general public.
In addition to our technological edge, our programs are unmatched in the industry We offer priority access to proprietary information, providing our clients with a competitive advantage that is unrivaled. With little to no competition, our clients receive unparalleled benefits that set them apart in the real estate market.
BUYINGPROCESS
Discuss your wants, needs and expectations while getting to know each other 01
Interview Your Agent 02 03 Financing Begin Property Search
Get pre-approved for a mortgage to determine your budget and demonstrate your qualifications
Get familiar with neighborhoods View properties and eliminate properties View a market analysis
Craft a competitive offer with guidance from your agent based on market value and property condition Make an Offer Inspection/Due
Diligence Escrow
Inspections: General Termite, HVAC, etc Review and negotiate appropriate requests Seller Disclosure, Title Commitment, HOA Disclosures
Critical dates, receive funds, disbursement of funds, title search & insurance, clear title, document prep, and sign documents
Complete the necessary legal and financial steps to officially transfer ownership 07 Closing/Possession
If you don’t love your home - we will buy it back or sell it at a $0 listing fee
YOUR SEVEN VIP BUYER BENEFITS PLUS OUR
VIP GUARANTEES!
YOU GET PRE-QUALIFIED FREE OF CHARGE FOR A HOME LOAN, AND GET ACCESS TO SPECIAL FINANCING.
Benefit to You: You get more home for your money, you don’t waste time on homes above or below your price range, and you beat out buyers that are not pre-approved
YOU RECEIVE THE BEST NEW LISTINGS THAT MATCH YOUR CRITERIA BEFORE THE AVERAGE BUYER KNOWS ABOUT THEM!
Benefit to You: You can beat other buyers to all the HOT NEW LISTINGS
YOU ARE BACKED BY OUR SPECIALIZED MARKET KNOWLEDGE
Benefit to You: You get the house you want at the lowest possible price AND on the best possible terms & conditions.
YOU HAVE AN ENTIRE TEAM OF PROS & LEADING EDGE TECHNOLOGY AT YOUR DISPOSAL, AT NO EXTRA COST!
Benefit to You: Our state of the art technology and unique team sales system means that you save time and money, and your transaction is hassle-free
YOU RECEIVE A HOME WARRANTY ($600)
Benefit to You: You have the security of knowing your home is protected! You get a written cancellation guarantee, that ensures you are satisfied with your purchase
YOU GET A WRITTEN SATISFACTION GUARANTEE THAT ENSURES YOU ARE SATISFIED WITH YOUR PURCHASE.
Benefit to You: If within 12 months you are not 100% satisfied with your new property, The Macklin Group will sell it for free!*
YOU GET PRIORITY ACCESS TO COMPETENT AFFILIATES THAT CAN ASSIST YOU WITH YOUR TOTAL HOME PURCHASE NEEDS AND CIRCUMSTANTIAL DETAILS.
Benefit to You: We have special relationships with Title Companies, Home Inspectors, Certified Contractors, and others that can handle those special needs.
VIP BUYER CANCELLATION GUARANTEE
If we don’t deliver the service we promise, you can cancel your agreement with us We are so confident that our real estate team will work for you that we guarantee you the right to cancel our buyers agreement at any time with no penalties or obligation if our service doesn’t live up to our promise.
VIP BUYER SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
If you are not happy with the home you purchase within 12 months of the date you close, we will sell it for FREE*
BENEFITS OF A
B U Y E R S A G E N T
SELLERS AGENT
The agent represents the Seller and owes fiduciary duties to the Seller ONLY
BUYERS AGENT
The agent represents the Buyer and owes fiduciary duties to the Buyer ONLY
There are HUGE Benefits to Having a Buyer’s Agent Represent You vs Asking the Seller’s Agent to Represent You As Well
TIPS FOR MORTGAGE FINANCING
What type of loan is right for you?
Remember, these are general guidelines, and specifics can vary. Always best to consult with your trusted mortgage professional for personalized advice.
MAP OF METRO PHOENIX
MAP OF METRO PHOENIX
BY ZIP CODE
When you think about your dream home, what comes to mind?
Please use the following questions to help me identify what will truly excite you when you see it in your inbox and in real life.
Is it a detached home, or a town home or condo (or something else)? 2 Is it all on one level, or does it have stairs? 3 What parts of town is it in - and what parts is it not?
How many bedrooms and bathrooms does it have, at a minimum?
5. Are any of those rooms an office, den, loft or other "bonus" room, or true bedrooms?
6. How big is it in terms of square footage, at a minimum, or does that not matter?
7 How big is the lot it is on, at a minimum?
8 When was it built, or the year you don't want to see homes built prior to?
9. Does it have an enclosed garage or carport? How many cars can fit in it?
10. Does it have a pool, either in the yard or in the community?
11 Has it been updated, or otherwise have modern or nicer finishes? How important is this to you?
12.What is on the floor (tile, carpet, etc)?
13. Are there other features you want to make sure are a part of it, or that you want to make sure are excluded?
FREQUENTLYASKEDQUESTIONS
1. Do I need a real estate agent? Aren’t all realtors the same?
Yes you do Having the right real estate agent will absolutely make you more money by negotiating and finding homes not available to most people including other agents. Not every agent is the same and who you work with matters.
2. How do you get paid?
Buyer representation is an essential feature to ensure your best interests are fought for. Historically, all commissions to agents have been paid from the money the buyer brings to the transaction, routed through the seller and their brokerage back to the the brokerage representing the buyer. We work to negotiate our fee to represent you to still be included as a part of those proceeds; if, however, there is a difference between what the seller will pay through their agent and what we have agreed to, that balance would be a closing cost for you, like the costs you'll have for title/escrow, your lender and other items.
3. What’s difference between listing agent and selling agent?
Listing agent owes all the fiduciary responsibility to the seller. The buyers agent owes all their fiduciary duties to the buyer.
4. Can I make offers on more than 1 home?
Yes, although it’s not always a good plan. Disclosing that you ’ ve made multiple offers on different homes may hurt your chances of getting a great deal.
5. How do “multiple offers”work?
Multiple offers are difficult but we have several strategies to help get your offer accepted over other buyers.
6. How much do I need to pay up front?
Not a penny! We only ask for your loyalty up front
7. What if I get into a contract and want to back out?
There are multiple contingencies that will allow you to back out or cancel any offer.
8. Do I need an attorney?
You’re always welcome to use one but you do not need one since we are provided the ability to write and negotiate contracts.
FREQUENTLYASKEDQUESTIONS
9. How do I know if I’m getting a good deal?
We will always provide you comparable as well as a complete analysis on every house. We also will ALWAYS let you know if we believe it’s a good deal or a bad deal.
10. Do I need to talk to a lender before I look at homes?
You should so you know how much you can afford as well as give you a good idea of how much you’ll need at closing.
11. What’s the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualified is someone who has the qualifications to get a loan, Pre-approved is someone who has completed the approval process.
12. Is it better to buy a new home or resale?
This is totally up to you. We will help you decide which house is best for you and your budget.
13. How do I know the housing market won’t crash again?
You don’t! No one really knows but there are so many more regulations and oversight committees it would be much more difficult to crash the housing market
14. What are closing costs?
These are fees that are associated with your loan as well as taxes and HOA fees. These are due at closing.
15. What does a title company do?
Title and escrow companies provide a neutral 3rd party facilitator to help with the closing and recording of the property.
16. What if I can’t be in AZ on the closing date?
That’s OK! Closing in AZ is all electronic so no final closing meeting is required.
17. How do I know you represent my best interest as a buyer?
See question #3 As your buyer representative we only work for you, not the seller, although the seller pays our fee
18. How exactly does a home inspection work and is it required? Who pays for that?
Buyer pays for the inspection up front The inspection is a very detailed physical inspection for the entire property including structural, electrical, roof, plumbing, mechanical & more
CLIENT REVIEWS
J&M C FAMILY
Bret was so knowledgeable in helping us locate and acquire our north Scottsdale home! After he sold our rental a few years ago, he stayed in touch with his social media and annual holiday program, so when we were ready for a move we reached out to him. He would always try to take our call during the process; his energy is good and he is kind and thoughtful. He got us a great deal, every time we look at other properties on market we feel validated about our purchase. We would recommend Bret to anyone!
MICHAEL & JULIE DONICK
I am lucky to have had the opportunity to work with Bret Ceren. Each and every time it is an absolute pleasure. Bret is a hard working professional who is going to educate you on the current market, get to know you as a person, find your needs, and ultimately find you the home of your dreams. Bret is truly a great real estate professional, and anyone looking to purchase is going to have a great experience working with him Whether it is a first home purchase, investment home, or vacation home, Bret Ceren is the guy to talk to!
WILL & KEELY ERNST
Bret has incredible attention to detail in both the needs of his clients and the properties he works with. He was awesome in anticipating my needs and navigating the home buying experience! He is professional, intelligent, and a great negotiator. He was wonderful to work with as I was shopping from out of state. He worked through skype, and other outlets to provide me visual information on homes in the area I wanted. He helped arrange viewings of the home as soon as I was in the area. Great job, and thank you so much Bret!
CLIENT REVIEWS
GRETCHEN & DOUG COATS
Bret was great and super helpful in the buying process. He provided his expertise in the offer process and was there throughout the rest of the process through closing He knew the market as well as the areas of Phoenix so we could make the best home decision for our family
LISA KERSHNER
Bret is an excellent agent. He made the first-time homebuyer experience seem easy. Bret remained in constant contact with me, the mortgage company I used, and the seller's agents He worked constantly to ensure I received forms to sign in a timely manner, usually the same day or the next He is extremely knowledgeable and provided good input and made recommendations Bret is personable, hardworking, and trustworthy. If you want a job well done, Bret is the man for the job!
FEATURING YOUR HOME ON MY WORK SPEAKS FOR ITSELF
Saved these buyers $16,000! Paid less than a new build home in a new community
They saved nearly $20,000 on their purchase, over twice as much as the average for comparable homes in the area!
We saved the buyers $14,900 on their purchase of this home!
LOOK AT THESE DEALS!
Saved $195,000 plus seller paid closing costs!
We saved this buyer over $4,700 in closing costs on this home by getting the seller to pay for them
$0 down with the seller paying $2,750 towards the buyers closing costs!
VIP BUYER SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
Our Macklin Group Buyer Satisfaction Guarantee is granted to buyers who usedThe Macklin Group as their Buyers Agent in their home purchase and decide to sell their home within 12 months of purchase. The Macklin Group will sell the home for FREE!
VIP BUYER SATISFACTION GUARANTEE CONDITIONS:
Any sale based upon a job transfer, investment, or financial distress is not valid
You must purchase another home and use Platinum Living Group as your exclusive buyer representative
The VIP Buyer Satisfaction Guarantee is solely designed to give you, the homebuyer, peace of mind knowing the property you are buying is a sound investment at the time of purchase.
REMEMBER - YOU ARE NEVER OBLIGATED TO BUY A HOME! WE ARE EXTREMELY GRATEFUL FOR YOUR PATRONAGE. HAPPY HOME BUYING!
BUYER SIGNATURE
VIP BUYER CANCELLATION GUARANTEE
If we don’t deliver the service we promise, you can cancel your agreement with us. We’re so confident that our real estate system will work for you that we guarantee you the right to cancel our buyer’s agreement any time prior to submitting an offer to purchase a property, with no penalties or obligation, if our service doesn’t live up to our promise.
Entering into a buyer’s agreement with a real estate agent can be a risky business Every sales representative will promise the world when it comes to finding you a home, but how many of them can back that up with solid performance? According to a recent survey, more than 80% of homebuyers were dissatisfied with the performance of their agent, even if that agent sold them a property. However, most buyer agreements lock you into long-term commitments and lengthy broker protection periods with heavy cancellation fees In other words, it’s an agreement your agent can get out of it, but you can’t We’re offering you a way to work with us that is risk-free!
For you, success In real estate is the ability to locate houses faster and for less money than the competition. We’re confident that we can do this for you because our team has already helped several hundred people just like you. Our pledge is to provide you with the highest level of service in the real estate industry, and my commitment to this pledge is 100% Your right is to evaluate whether we live up to this standard, and to cancel your agreement with us at any point prior to submitting an off er to purchase, with no penalties or obligations, If we fall lo deliver the service we promised. REMEMBER, YOU ARE
BUYER SIGNATURE
THE MACKLIN GROUP
AGENT SIGNATURE
DATE
DATE
When you become a VIP Buyer with The Macklin Group, there are several very important benefits that we will provide you.
1. Should the need arise, we ' re committed to assisting you in securing the optimal financing program tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring the lowest interest rates and most affordable closing costs. Additionally, we'll facilitate the generation of a pre-qualification/approval certificate, granting you a significant competitive edge during purchase negotiations.
2. We will provide you with regular updates from our Home Hunter Service of all the new properties that match your home buying criteria. This Includes off Market homes, Builder close outs, Coming soon properties, Cancelled & Expired properties including all active properties and for sale by owner properties This will allow you to drive by and determine which properties you want to see
3 We will use our specialized negotiation strategy, personal relationships, and proven techniques to ensure you get the best home for the best possible price We’ll discuss strategy with you regarding the offer price, financing terms (if needed), possession date, etc We’ll help you prepare the offer with terms, provisions, special stipulations, amendments, exhibits, and addenda weighted in YOUR best Interest
4 We will present the offer on your behalf and negotiate in YOUR favor to help you secure the property at the best possible price and terms
5. We’ll recommend extremely competent affiliates with respect to your total home purchase. Including title and escrow expertise, home inspection, appraisal, warranties, and home hazard insurance.
6. We will represent you exclusively with YOUR best interest in the absolute forefront of everything we do. Our fiduciary responsibility to you is unwavering even during the most precarious situations.
7 You are never under any obligation, at any time, to buy any property
8 BONUS #1: You receive a one year Home Warranty Policy ($700 value) We will negotiate the warranty on your behalf at no cost to you
9 BONUS #2: You will receive our written Buyer Satisfaction Guarantee whereby we agree in writing to BUY BACK your property or sell it with ZERO listing commission if you are not satisfied with your home purchase in 12 months*
10 BONUS #3: CHOOSING THE RIGHT AGENT GUARANTEE: We GUARANTEE that by hiring me and my team you ’ re choosing the best agents for the job. In todays market the agent you choose to hire make ALL THE DIFFERENCE. It can cost you tens of thousands of dollars if you choose the wrong agent or team. Our Guarantee is based on years of training and hard knocks experience selling thousands of homes and helping thousands of families. The Macklin Group is dedicated and committed to my training, work environment and your amazing experience in the home purchase process.
In return for these services, you will agree:
1 To simplify your house-hunting journey by obtaining written pre-approval (if needed)
2. Entrust us with representing you for any home viewings, whether new or resale. Notify all relevant parties agents, builders, and for sale by owners that we are your designated agent. All offers should be channeled through us.
3. Grant us six months from the commencement of this process to serve as your agent, with no obligation to buy a home. Should you enlist another agent or company during this period, you agree to pay us a specified commission as outlined below:
You understand our fee is at least 3.5% of the purchase price and will be paid to The Macklin Group. Typically, a portion of this is paid by theSeller of the property you purchase at the close of the sale, provided The Macklin Group acted as your agent in the sale Any delta in commission offered to The Macklin Group from the listing agent will be paid by the Buyer if not otherwise negotiated with the Seller or Listing Agent. This agreement automatically renews six months from today’s date unless mutually canceled by either party in writing Performance of the 10 loyalty benefits will be remunerated to The Macklin Group as dictated above
4 Upon Mutual agreement, allow a ‘SOLD’ sign to be displayed in the front yard for up to two weeks after the close of escrow
Remember, you are never under any obligation to purchase any property!
Buyer Signature
The Macklin Group Agent Signature
YOUR REFERRALS
FEED CHILDREN
Today, hunger still causes nearly half of deaths in children under 5 years old.
Together, with Feed My Starving Children, we are on a mission to feed 365 children for 365 days. We do this by donating a portion of every commission received from a referral as well as by donating our own time, energy and money.
Last year, FMSC FED NEARLY 1 MILLION CHILDREN FOR AN ENTIRE YEAR across the globe, often in some of the most difficult places to reach.
Who do you know who may be considering buying or selling a home to whom you would recommend my service?
For every friend, family member or colleague you refer, a donation will be made at closing to FMSC.
