Jenn Smira & Co. at Compass Real Estate — Local services in Washington

As a military family with a quick turnaround move in a crazy competitive market, the Jenn Smira Team, and specifically Jose Ramirez, were dependable, responsive, thorough, and everything we could have asked for in a Team and Realtor.

With Jose, we always felt like we had his undivided attention. When we planned a last-minute trip to D.C., giving Jose only a few days’ notice, he accommodated our family, clearing his calendar and arranging multiple showings in the most efficient way possible. With a toddler in tow, it was nice to have a detailed oriented person in our corner to maximize our ability to view as many properties as possible. When we were on the road and found a listing that checked all the boxes, Jose again cleared his schedule and gave us virtual tour within hours, answering all our questions and giving his honest opinion on the home we were eyeing. We placed our full faith and confidence in his judgment and ended up making an offer "sight-unseen". We trusted him, and he proved himself deserving of that trust. He explained every step of the process and was our advocate when it came time to submit a competitive offer. Jose was able to get our offer accepted with an inspection contingency, something other Realtors had told us was impossible in this type of market. Jose's strength as a Realtor is amplified by his vast network. He connected us with multiple lenders that were able to beat out even our competitive military credit union. Jose linked us up with a thorough and professional inspector, who walked us through our potential home and provided us a detailed report on his findings. Our buying process couldn't have gone any smoother, and that is all because of Jose's hard work and dedication. Where many real estate transactions can feel...well...transactional, we felt that we truly had an advocate and coach that cared about the well-being of our family. Finally, Jose's attention and work-ethic didn't end at closing. When we needed assistance in finding reputable contractors or getting those contractors into our home while we were out of town, Jose again stepped up and helped us out in a big way. Our family owes a lot of Jose, and we are incredibly blessed to have been connected with such an amazing Realtor. If you're searching for a Realtor, look no further than Jose! His attention to detail, responsiveness, negotiating skills, experience, and vast network are unmatched. Our family will be forever grateful for Jose and all of his hard work that landed us...

I consider myself a fair and honest appraiser of an individual’s work product. I try not to be critical, as there’s enough of that nowadays and I certainly don’t want to cost anyone his/her job if he/she has had a bad day, etc. However, I feel that fair assessments help others find professionals they can rely on—and assist employers in finding the right employees to build their businesses. Particularly when dealing with real estate transactions—which are by nature large and involving substantial amounts of money—you need people on your side who not only work hard but are intelligent, resourceful, and experienced.

My wife and I have spent the last six months working closely with Kaush Rath. “Closely” is not truly accurate. Kaush became a member of our family. We were in touch with him regularly while searching for a home while living on the west coast. Finding the right place 3000 miles away is a difficult task, but having Kaush be our eyes and ears—and occasionally, brains—made the process navigable.

I cannot say enough about Kaush. He was always there for us. Always. Whether it was running to a potential property to check it out (in a competitive environment) or answering our WhatsApp messages in the late evening (three hours later in the east!), he did whatever was necessary to get answers, solve problems with builders, or gather information that helped us make reasoned decisions.

We found Kaush through our son’s in-laws, who used to Kaush to find their home. Then Kaush worked with us and our son and daughter-in-law as they looked for their first home, and then Kaush sold our townhouse in the DC area. All of these involved complex transactions and nuanced negotiations that are sometimes required in real estate transactions. Thus, when I “review” Kaush, I do so having had multiple transactions with him.

I recommend Kaush and his team without a scintilla of hesitation. Kaush is a professional who not only understands real estate markets but also negotiation and customer service. There have only been a handful of individuals I’ve dealt with in my 35 years in business who I consider to be A+ in terms of them being at the top of their professions. Kaush is on that short list. If you have a real estate need in any of the regions Kaush serves, retain him. It’ll be one of the best, and most important, decisions...

A Heartfelt Recommendation for an Exceptional Real Estate Professional: Lauren Rondeau

For those navigating the complexities of the real estate market, particularly under challenging personal circumstances, the guidance and support of a truly exceptional agent can make all the difference. My recent experience selling my parents' property with Lauren Rondeau of the Jenn Smira Team was nothing short of remarkable, and I offer my highest recommendation for her services.

Initially, I reached out to Jenn Smira, concerned that my family's property might be considered "small potatoes." However, my concerns were immediately assuaged as I was placed in the thoughtful and capable hands of Lauren Rondeau. From our first interaction, Lauren demonstrated a profound understanding of the market and a clear strategy for our "as is" listing. She expertly guided me through the necessary preparations to ensure we would attract the best possible offers.

Lauren's advice was invaluable, and her approach yielded incredible results. We received multiple offers, ultimately selling the property for over the list price and well within our desired timeframe. This outstanding outcome was a direct result of her strategic pricing, marketing, and negotiation skills.

What truly set Lauren apart, however, was her profound empathy and sensitivity to my family's situation. With both of my parents facing serious health issues, my father critically ill, and my mother overseas, I was under immense personal stress. Lauren and Jenn's attentive and compassionate nature was a constant source of reassurance. Lauren patiently addressed every question, no matter how unconventional, and ensured I was fully informed and had considered every legal aspect of any potential transaction. Her unwavering support and clear communication were a beacon during a very difficult time.

Throughout the entire process, Lauren's professionalism and dedication were exemplary. She is a testament to the high standards of the Jenn Smira Team. I can unequivocally say that I would never consider working with anyone else for my real estate needs. For anyone seeking a real estate agent who combines market expertise with genuine care and integrity, I wholeheartedly recommend Lauren Rondeau and the...