Susan McDonnell
"Connecting Hearts and Homes"
Credentials
I am an active member of the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. My license status covers the sate of California and is current to represent the purchase, sale, and lease of residential properties and multi-unit dwellings. Regarding professional designations, I am a member of Tarbell's elite "e-Agent" (e-Pro with California Association of Realtors), SFR certified in REO (bank owned), and Short Sales (pre-foreclosure). Currently, I am also a member of Tarbell's Platinum Circle of Champions and a committee member for the "President's Mastermind Team". 2010 Award from OC Magazine for Top Rated OC Realtor in overall customer satisfaction.
Education and Experience
The most important thing to know about me is that I have a very strong work ethic. I was born and raised in Chicago in a family of eight and it was during this time that I learned the importance of integrity and having passion for what you believe in. When I became a realtor my motto soon became "Connecting Hearts and Homes" because I quickly realized I was doing more then just helping people buy and sell property; I was helping people realize their dreams and uniting them home. In this fast changing market it is a priority for me to stay informed on market trends, technology, and the area in which I work. I am a well traveled person and have repeatedly chosen Southern California to be my home as it suits me perfectly. The landscape, the architecture, the people, and the opportunities are all here.
I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Arizona State University. In a previous life I owned a toy company. Working in the toy industry for 20 years allowed me to spend a great deal of time in Europe and Asia, the extensive traveling reinforced my appreciation of being able to come home to a great place. I have a unique love for Southern California and especially Orange County where I have lived and worked since moving here in 1981, I always loved returning home and now love helping others experience the same feeling.
After the toy industry, I enjoyed 2 years working on model home projects in an interior design capacity. Working with home builders I developed the "real estate bug" and quickly pursued a career in real estate; a career which allows me to stay put in a community I love to live and work in!
Team Player
I am a member of a team of agents, my office consists of approximately 35 active real estate professionals. I work independently when representing buyers and sellers so that I can guarantee outstanding personal service and will never "pass you off" onto someone else. I do however have a team of players once inside the transaction. This team consists of a mortgage loan officer (who generally pre-qualifies and starts the underwriting process towards pre-approval), a title representative, an escrow officer, a transaction coordinator (to process paperwork and keeps the flow going), and an insurance agent. Tarbell is a full service broker in this regard, offering these services in house.
Selling a home in this economic climate is not easy. Sellers have to be willing to make and keep their homes "show ready". I perform a host of marketing activities including but not limited to, Direct Mail, Open House, networking with fellow realtors, and target marketing in print and on the internet. Open Houses are critical to attracting first time home buyers, the more accessible you make your home the greater the reach and probability of selling. I will give you all my energies and commit many hours to the goal of getting your home sold. As a listing agent in Orange County, my extensive marketing plan gives a homeowner the opportunity to get the maximum value for his or her property in the shortest amount of time. For buyers, I help negotiate the best possible deal and search until I find the perfect property. Nothing satisfies me more than seeing the smiles that come with a successful sale or the purchase of a lifetime. If you are looking to buy or sell a home, or would just like to know some more information, feel free to call or Email me.
Orange County has been my home for over 30 years! I appreciate all the opportunites here and believe in the old addage "charity begins at home". I want to support the community where I live and work, by contributing to my neighbors. I discovered a great organization who takes care of the homeless in Orange County, currently estimated at 35,000 people. Homelessness is not a choice; it is a circumstance. Giving back to my community makes me feel like I am a part of something bigger than just me. I am making a difference by donating a portion of my earnings from each real estate sale. HomeAid's Mission: To build and maintain dignified housing where homeless families and individuals can rebuild their lives.
Thank you again for choosing Susan McDonnell as your on-line Orange County real estate source.






