OK Full Disclosure: I'm Chinese, so I believe in Value. Actually, maybe that's not particular to…read morebeing Chinese. Anyway, I'd give Tom more stars of Yelp actually allowed it.
Last year, I made the decision to make the biggest purchase of my life so far: a 2-bedroom apartment at Duboce Triangle/Castro/Upper Market. I did my research on the market, calculated how much I could afford, and looked up real estate agents. I've talked to a few real estate agents before (mostly through family friends) and they turned me off immediately- some were way too pushy, others were aloof, they were clueless about the SF market, and some were maybe just a bit too eager. Either way, I really questioned whether they provided any value at all in the age of RedFin.
That's when a very experienced and established neighbor of mine introduced me to Tom Cooke, and I can safely say now, having bought my house, that Tom Cooke was WORTH EVERY PENNY and I'm pretty sure I couldn't have done it without him. Upon meeting him, I really got the sense that he was not only knowledgeable about the SF real estate market (he's been at it for almost 20 years), he is extremely astute and intelligent, and he REALLY understands the neuroticism of a first-time home buyer. Upon meeting him, I thought to myself, if there is ANYONE I need on my side in a negotiation- it's this guy. He really knows this sh*t. Despite being super busy (all his business being from referrals and loyal repeat clients) Tom makes himself available, he isn't at all pushy, and makes you completely comfortable with the whole process- which can be a frustrating one.
I really saw the value in having Tom by my side during the negotiations/offer-making process, and especially during the closing of escrow. The paperwork, deadlines, and the insufferable personalities of the lender/seller/previous homeowner/HOA association/bank was difficult to sort through, but Tom walked me through everything, handled most of it, and gave me his honest opinion throughout the entire process. I felt I could trust Tom to give me his unbiased and honest feedback, whether or not it benefitted him, and that in itself is difficult to come by.
Tom was my confidant, therapist, and advocate through the entire home-buying process, and a year later, he still continues to be my main resource in all things relating to real estate. And I am happy to report that I am still very, very happy I bought my place. And, I know it wouldn't have happened without Tom. If you don't believe me, just set up some time and talk to him and decide for yourself. I'm just happy to give credit where credit is due.