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With all the news concerning bank failures, skyrocketing mortgages and the foreclosure crisis, you might think being in the real estate business these days is a losing proposition. But for Realtors Sue Jones and John Stachel, owners of Class-Harlan Real Estate, the pair relies on their respective 30-plus years of experience to navigate seemingly troubled waters. Their secret: They’ve learned a thing or two about what it takes to make it in a business where so much depends on the relationship between Realtor, seller, buyer and community, as well as the importance of a dedicated, professional sales force.
Serving prospective buyers and sellers since 1963, Class-Harlan, located at 15 West State St. in the heart of Doylestown, includes 26 other agents working out of their office. Over the years, the group has garnered a reputation as the kind of friendly, hometown realty office that seems to be a dying breed in the industry. They pride themselves on their strong commitment to customer satisfaction. “We are about caring, cooperation, teamwork and customer service,” says Jones. “This kind of values-based business model follows the ‘golden rule.’”
And while their reputation among clients is hard to beat, Class-Harlan has also grown to become more than just a local business. “We’re a real icon in this community and very much a part of it,” says Jones. “Community is what we at Class-Harlan are about, and we attach great importance to the need for harmony between, on one hand, providing a service and, on the other, community involvement and giving back. In addition, we have a commitment to each and every member of our organization. Everyone within the company is valued and appreciated, regardless of their position. Whatever we do has to have meaning. There’s no shortage of information and ‘stuff’ in the world. If we’re not adding something useful to the greater good, there is no point in doing it. This philosophy helps us make decisions that align with our values.”
As a testament to both their involvement and dedication, Class-Harlan is noted for their annual community and children’s events, including a “Guess the Weight of the Giant Pumpkin” contest in October; a Holiday Story Hour, where area youngsters congregate in the office’s lobby the night Santa Claus arrives in town in December; and the annual gift collection and delivery to the Tabor Home for Children, located on New Britain Road in Doylestown, every holiday season.
But perhaps what truly sets Jones, Stachel and the rest of Class-Harlan apart is there palpable, authentic love for the area. “There’s so much to do here,” Jones says. “Whatever your interest, you can be sure that there is something to satisfy your curiosity just a few blocks away.” Both Jones and Stachel are Doylestown Borough residents and relish the role they play in bringing new individuals and families to the community they love and support. “As Realtors, we are so fortunate in that we have the privilege to meet persons from all walks life, show them what Doylestown and its surrounding areas have to offer and help them in their largest investment,” Jones says.
Stachel invites anyone to stop in the office any day of the week. Class-Harlan is open all seven days. “You will always be greeted with a smile from one of our professionals,” he says. “Class-Harlan and our agent’s involvement in the community has helped mold Doylestown into a Nationally Renowned Area for people to work and live.”
Go online at classharlan.com