Brian McGowan is an award-winning agent who cares more about servicing his clients than the art of the deal. This agent’s love of real estate goes back to his childhood where Brian could be found drawing floor plans. This southeast Virginia native is so good at what he does that he was ranked higher than the top one percent of area agents in 2011 and 2012; essentially he sells three times what the average real estate agent sells. Even though clients may catch Brian in flip-flops during the summer, he sports a suit and tie persona on the inside with his fastidious devotion to buyers and sellers.
He studied theology when pursing a college education at Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas. Brian then accepted a ministerial position before returning to Hampton Roads, where he worked as a worship leader and music director at a local church for eight years. He focused on activities such as speaking and teaching during mission trips to Uganda. Later he became a contractor, giving him an extra vantage point when working in real estate. “I think my experience as a contractor gives me an eye for things that other agents wouldn’t see,” he adds, “I can point out details and the potential in properties.”
Four years later, he followed a different path by taking a position at a local real estate agency as a new home sales agent. Brian gained a thorough grasp of how to help buyers seeking new homes, whether they want model homes in a community or custom homes on specific lots. He quickly knew this industry was for him because he could make a positive impact on the lives of many. “Buying a home is the biggest investment most people will ever make, and I enjoy the satisfaction of seeing the smile on people’s faces on the day of closing when I hand them their keys,” Brian continues, “That’s an awesome feeling.” A year later, he came aboard SimonHouses.com; helping clients is what he’s done ever since.
Years before he was an agent, Brian bought a home in his early 20s and understands how overwhelming the home buying process may seem at first. “The one thing that sets me apart is I’m incredibly accessible; I do whatever it takes to get it done,” he adds, “I don’t quit working at five o’clock.” It’s not uncommon to find this approachable agent on the phone with clients past midnight. Clients find him easy to talk to and respond well to his honest approach. Another plus? Brian’s able to give the inside scoop, as he’s lived all over Hampton Roads; he knows the peninsula and the Southside equally well.
“A very high percentage of clients I service are military, whether they are relocating or selling.” Brian works with lenders who understand loan programs specifically available for military clientele. “I work with the number one VA loan processor in Hampton Roads.” While he receives a great deal of referrals from military clientele, other specialties include first-time homebuyers and listings.
When he’s not showing a buyer homes or orchestrating sales for sellers, Brian enjoys fishing and woodworking. He also likes spending time with his family and going camping with them in the Shenandoah National Park. He can even be caught helping coach his son’s soccer team. Passions include his faith, family and friends. Brian resides in an established neighborhood in Newport News with his wife, children and chocolate Labrador retriever.
