back to archive'Meet the Agent' - Matt Shrubb - Roderick DeCouto Real Estate Ltd.
This month for 'Meet the Agent' we interview Matt Shrubb, a Sales Agent at Roderick DeCouto Real Estate Ltd. Matt discusses why he enjoys working in real estate and continuing to uphold the legacy of working for his family business, which was established by his grandfather over 40 years ago. Matt gives some top tips when you are looking for a new home and also talks about his favourite listings on the market right now.
How long have you been in real estate? I have been in real estate my entire life. As a third generation realtor I have been exposed to the markets for almost 30 years. From as young as I can remember I was tagging along to property showings after school and found myself fascinated with every listing I went to. As I advanced through school, I followed my skills in mathematics to obtain a Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering. With this degree I began working on not only engineering projects but also a lot of architectural projects. I was often designing complete homes from scratch or concepts for possible renovations. I couldn’t help but enjoy designing the homes themselves more than the mechanical systems. I have since decided to follow this passion and obtained my real estate license. Moving forward I hope to help my clients find a home of their dreams.
Why do you like working for Roderick DeCouto Real Estate Ltd.? Roderick DeCouto Real Estate was established by my grandfather over 40 years ago, and I am honoured to be continuing the reliable and professional service for which the company has been known. RDC Real Estate strongly believes in going above and beyond for our clients and because we are an intimate company, we are able to give our clients more personalized service and treat them like one of the family. Working for the family business also adds another degree of passion by keeping the legacy upheld as well as progress the company into the future.
What is the favorite part of your job? Of course, I love helping my clients find the ideal property to suit their needs, but what is most rewarding is finding the diamonds in the rough. It is always great to showcase a pristine property but finding properties that can use a little TLC to become a gem on the island makes this profession so worthwhile. There are a lot of properties in Bermuda with amazing potential and my engineering background assists in pinpointing the potential of a listing no matter if it is in pristine condition or if it needs a bit more “homeowner” love.
What is your favorite property on the market right now? My favourite property on the island currently is “Ariel” located at the top of Knapton Hill. With some personalized touches, this listing could easily become a grand statement on the island. The property sits on over an acre of land with a large pool and deck great for entertaining while looking over stunning views of South Shore. The view alone is worth checking out! The property also includes an extensive master suite, large lanai, nanny apartment, wet bar, cedar beams and more.
https://www.propertyskipper.com/property/deco_571_majestic_executive_home
What property on the market right now, in your opinion, do you think is really good value? A great valued property on the market right now is a two part commercial listing on Middle Road. Located right next to Paget stoplights, this commercial space is highly visible and gains maximum exposure. Sold individually, the larger unit has amazing potential for investors. The property consists of a renovated showroom, workshop and basement on street level as well as 3 apartments above it and 2 additional apartments on St. Paul’s Lane. The property is currently occupied by tenants and can continue to bring in rental incomes. If being a landlord is not for you, the property sits on 0.21 acres ready for a complete redevelopment. The possibilities are truly endless.
https://www.propertyskipper.com/property/deco_637_central_paget_commercial
How do you see the Bermuda property market over the next 12 months? The real estate market is responding to the positive economic growth with greater demand in the sales and rental sectors continuing to strengthen. The rental market currently has undergone increased demand as more and more America’s Cup personnel arrive on the island but will have a large flux later in the year. With international eyes on Bermuda and the upcoming sporting events, Bermuda has a great opportunity to regain international and local buyers’ confidence in investing in Bermuda. We remain confident that Bermuda will uphold its’ reputation as a special place to live.
What are your top 3 tips when looking for a potential new home? It has always been said that Location, Location, Location is the most important factor when considering purchasing property. As important as location is, prospective buyers should keep a few more things in mind:
1) Know what is important to you. Make sure your priorities are well thought out and reasonable. Bermuda is a very special place and options can be limited at times. It is important to know which priorities are must-haves to you and which can be settled with a compromise.
2) Don’t rush into anything. If your dream home is not for sale today, it could be tomorrow. The market changes every day and buyers should not settle for a non-desirable home because there is nothing else on the market. Be patient until you find what is right for you!
3) Look beyond the first impression. I have witnessed dozens of projects go from zero to hero and the thing they all had in common were great “bones”. Do not get discouraged by dirty carpets, paint colours or ugly drapes, these are simply cosmetic. Focus on the bones!
What do you think of propertyskipper.com (we promise not to edit!)? Propertyskipper.com has been a great tool for the real estate industry in Bermuda. It has given Bermuda a similar solution to the MLS in the United States. It has greatly helped prospective buyers and renters find a place for them as well as to help agents showcase their listings to a broad audience. I have always enjoyed working with Peter and his team. They were extremely helpful during our transition into a new website as well as getting our cutting-edge virtual tours to be featured on Propertyskipper. (Ed: Many thanks Matt)
Matt’s Contact Details:
(441) 535-6288
(441) 292-4990
