We never wanted this article to be an advertisement for our company but rather some insight into its history and operation. We have always considered our dad to be one of the greatest salesmen of our time, but let's not start there. Over 50 years ago, our dad opened R.J. Chipkar Real Estate Ltd. during a time when mortgages were 6% for a 25 year term (that's term and amortization!). It was a different era but the competition was still fierce. The stories and awards were endless and eventually he had one of the biggest independent real estate companies around. With many offices and salespeople, dad was extremely successful. Some of the greatest brokers today began their first day at our father's company. It all sounds great, however, the inevitable economy "shake out" was coming and dad saw the writing on the wall. He introduced a unique (at that time) "100%" system within his offices which became known as the "Chipkar System" and he successfully fought with the registrar to maintain it. It seemed that dad had an open highway to launch this innovative system but something else had attracted his attention. He began to purchase apartment buildings for long-term investments. Having a new interest he decided to give his groundwork documentation to his friend Frank Polzler who did a fantastic job developing (in Canada) what is known today as the "Re/Max" System. Dad never looked back as his new interest made him millions and he traveled the world at a very early retirement age.
Leaving pre-medical school was a big decision for myself and my brother Glenn, however, we don't regret it for a second. I'm sure the medical field is now a little more flexible to innovation and new ideas than it was so many years ago. Graduating high school with multiple academic scholarships I chose the road to medicine as my next challenge as did my brother one year before me with an honors degree. With eyes wide open I was off to Western University in London to join my brother. We were always driven, outgoing and different from most students in a relatively uniform system. We had our own theories and views that were not accepted by our professors and eventually we both felt labeled as "rebels" in a world of conformity. I soon realized that my heart was no longer in the program and when that happens you must reassess your situation. My brother felt similarly as we finished our last year-end with honors. We wanted to meet new people everyday and work with them in the "real world" on the streets.
Real estate had our attention and we have great respect for our parents for supporting our decision. Actually, our dad said we were crazy at first but then he must have seen the sparks of determination flying out of our ears. We did not want to mark his reputation as he was already retired with a flawless record. We wanted to add to the reputation. He taught us the ropes and integrity of the real estate industry. You can learn ropes, principles and rules but applying them to the real world is both challenging and rewarding. In this business you get back exactly what you put into it. We felt driven like never before. Perhaps it was our father's reputation or possible regrets of leaving the medical field, but we felt there were high standards to reach. Everything had to be perfect. Perfect listings, perfect offers, perfect presentations with no flaws or mistakes. Our younger brother Joel joined us later with the same ambition and the pressure was on to create the "perfect family company"!
It's decades later and we're still going strong. It's such a privilege to be one of the few family businesses left in an industry where giant conglomerates appear to dominate. Over the years we've turned down numerous offers to join large franchise organizations. Anyone can join a franchise and give the appearance of a "large operation". We've kept our identity and we're proud to be 100% family owned and operated. We prove that bigger is not always better. To us there's no business like a family business. It involves trust, dedication and understanding. In our office there is no "in-house competition". We each know the others' schedule and clients and we assist each other for maximum efficiency. It's like having three agents looking after you. When issues arise there's a triple point of view to determine the best possible result for the client. A respect for different perspectives and personalities is the foundation for solving family issues too. Whether it's a family business or your own household the principles are similar. As three brothers we are different as can be yet the company runs like a fine-tuned machine, even though we have very separate lives.
As with everyone's family, ours has had tragedies and triumphs. You must release animosities and past arguments so your emotions are clear to "play with life". We feel that healthy family issues and mending are necessary for emotional balance. Coping with family issues is one of your first tests in life. If you can "cut it" at home then you can "cut it" in the outside world. Life can be shorter than expected so let's focus on what is important and essential for happiness. Our advice for the younger generation is to listen to your parents. When growing up life offers similar roads to everyone. Your parents have a lifetime of wisdom to share with you if you're open to it. You can apply their wisdom to your own path and avoid similar "pot holes" that are coming.
We're so grateful for our university psychology background. Sometimes in the real estate field you fall into situations where you're a bit of a psychologist / marriage counselor / financial advisor. It's all in a day's work and very gratifying when you can help someone. Every client has a unique situation. Understanding their views and desires is essential. You are dealing with people at emotional times and they need a comfortable environment. We always try to make it fun and effortless for our clients. If people are comfortable with you then they will work with you. Most of our original clients are still with us today, again proving that bigger is not necessarily better.
Over the years, we have never compromised our marketing or performance for sellers or buyers. Our experience and service makes people feel content. Our competitive commission rate is very reasonable. We're sorry to see other companies promote misleading commission advertising which only creates public confusion. It's been our experience that people are happy to do business with a true professional based on comfortable people skills, real estate merit and trust. Our goal is to sell your house properly for its highest value. Commission is not a "windfall", there is a great deal of time, energy, knowledge and liability behind every transaction. You don't just "sell your house"- you must be protected in so many ways. There are legal implications and liabilities involved also. There are evolving clauses and changing terminologies that your agent must be aware of for your up-to-date protection. Your agent must assure that after the closing date you walk away squeaky-clean otherwise possible litigation can linger into a nightmare - and it's no joke!
The real estate business is very serious and sometimes gimmicks and ego advertising can cheapen its integrity. It is not an ego contest or a fashion show. Advertising manipulated statistics or misleading statements to get the phone to ring is not attractive. The real estate industry must breed integrity not gimmicks or borderline misrepresentation. Buying or selling a home involves personal, emotional, legal, and financial issues to maintain your family's well being and serious agency representation is paramount. Honor, integrity, and trust are important qualities in any business or relationship. We feel honored to be part of this industry.
Some of the most fun we've had in the business was advertising our listings on television with the Rogers "Homes Plus" 24 hour channel. Although it was quite a few years ago, people still come up to any of us today and say, "Hey, you're that guy on TV!"
After so many years of selling, sometimes we feel that we've seen almost every possible situation involving real estate transactions. Although we consider business experience invaluable, we still take continuing education seriously. You've got to know what you're doing at all times. It's the mark of a true professional and it keeps you content in your field. People notice it and they want to stick with you. Computer technology, new forms, new clauses, etc. is all "cutting edge" and we're right on top of it. Through our website link people can personally search all of the up to date MLS home listings in all areas. With ambition, we are looking forward to the future of the real estate industry. Our sign is the same design that our dad began with over 50 years ago, and it still stands proud today!
"FAMILY OWNED FOR 50 YEARS"
50 Burnhamthorpe Rd. West, Suite 105 Mississauga, Ontario L5B
3C2.
