We are thrilled to announce an exciting partnership that will enhance the way local families achieve their dream of homeownership. Patterson-Schwartz, a trusted name in the real estate industry, has partnered with Pike Creek Mortgage, the largest independent mortgage lender in Delaware, to provide unparalleled service and support to our clients.
Joe DiEmidio, Pike Creek Mortgage Vice President (center), greets the crowd at PSA Greenville.
Like-Minded Companies
Pike Creek Mortgage Services, Inc. is not just any mortgage lender; they have been fulfilling homeownership dreams for 30 years. With a strong commitment to the local community, Pike Creek Mortgage offers a wide range of loan products and down payment assistance programs tailored to your specific mortgage needs. Their dedication to open communication ensures a seamless and enjoyable mortgage experience from application to closing.
Jason Giles of Patterson-Schwartz shared his thoughts on the partnership, saying, “It’s amazing how like-minded our companies really are. In addition to being truly local, I’m amazed at the similarities in our culture and transparent style in which Pike Creek does business. They always put the customer first and work tirelessly to make buying a home seamless. This is a partnership that will benefit our clients for years to come.”
A Powerful Partnership
Pike Creek Mortgage is equally enthusiastic about the collaboration. Joe DiEmidio, Vice President, stated, “Pike Creek Mortgage is excited to service our local real estate market in partnership with Patterson-Schwartz. Our company’s foundation, culture, and goals align with the Patterson-Schwartz brand. We understand the importance of being local, something that resonates deeply with Patterson-Schwartz. We anticipate our partnership to be beneficial to our mutual clients, not just in 2024, but for many successful years to come.”
This partnership is more than just a collaboration; it’s a commitment to our community. Together, we will leverage our combined strengths to provide exceptional service to local homebuyers and contribute positively to the local housing market. Join us in extending a warm welcome to Pike Creek Mortgage as they become an integral part of the Patterson-Schwartz family. Let’s make homeownership dreams a reality!
PSA & PCMS Meet & Greet Happy Hour at Famous Joe’s
About Us
Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.
As we reflect on 2023, we celebrate a year of tremendous growth, achievements, and milestones for our company. From welcoming new talent, celebrating anniversaries, and fostering education to better equip our agents and living our values by giving back to the community, we had an eventful year! Join us as we explore the numbers and stories that shaped 2023.
In a grand style, we enthusiastically embraced our 72 new agents, igniting a buzz of excitement with 2,045 Likes and 874 Comments on our social media pages! Among this exceptional group, 33 experienced or returning agents made the decision to align with us, solidifying our status as the preferred destination for top talent in our marketplace.
This year’s 114 honorees counted 1,105 years of experience among them. Their dedication and commitment to PSA were met with an outpouring of support, garnering 1,348 Likes and 242 Comments on our social media pages.
PSA agents scooped up 2,421 hours of Continuing Education through PSA’s internal courses. That gets our agents even closer to renewing their licenses in 2024!
Forty-two newly hired agents across 90% of our offices engaged 1,890 hours in new agent training. That’s 78.75 straight days!
We’re immensely proud of our commitment to giving back. In 2023 we exemplified #PSAgivesback and #WeAreLocal through the PSA Foundation by supporting 40 different charities, and bringing our contributions to a total of almost $1.44 Million since the Foundation’s inception.
PSA agents and employees mixed and mingled all year long at our Mid-Month Mixers – a series of five fun-filled networking events across the state that brought together our PSA family and business partners along with local real estate industry professionals.
Our own awards for excellence in sales and reputation, Top Producer and Five-Star Agent, were earned by 175 and 239 unique agents and teams, respectively. Way to go!
Moving Forward with Gratitude
As we conclude our 2023 statistics review, we’re deeply thankful for the people behind our success. These numbers not only represent the PSA family’s unwavering dedication but also underscore the trust and collaboration that define our shared vision. Our agents bring dreams to life, guiding their clients through every step of their journey. To our valued customers and clients, you’re at the heart of this success, and we’re committed to exceeding your expectations in the coming year.
To our dedicated agents and employees, you are the driving force behind our achievements. Your passion, expertise, and commitment to excellence set us apart in our local and national markets. As we look ahead to 2024, we’re excited to build on these accomplishments and reach even greater heights together. Thank you all for being an integral part of our journey, and here’s to a year filled with endless possibilities and even brighter horizons!
About Us
Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.
Introducing a real estate dynamo you’ll want to know: Chris Cashman, our Sales Manager at the Newark office. He’s no ordinary leader; he’s a seasoned pro deeply devoted to both his career and community. With roots in real estate since 1989 and a steadfast presence at Patterson-Schwartz since 1993, Chris holds real estate licenses in three states (DE, PA, & MD), showcasing his extensive regional expertise. Beyond his leadership at the local Boards of REALTORS®, Chris actively shapes the future of PSA by mentoring and supporting emerging talent. Join us as we chat with Chris and uncover why he’s an invaluable asset to PSA and a true luminary in real estate.
Why did you choose PSA?
I started my real estate career with a local competitor. During my tenure with that company, they sold to a larger, regional company. I was the top-selling agent in my office, but I wanted to be better. I looked around at the alternatives and I saw that Patterson-Schwartz agents were more productive than the agents at other companies in the market. So, five years into my career, I chose to join Patterson-Schwartz. It’s been a great decision because of our local focus, family atmosphere, and “exceeding expectations” mentality.
How long have you been with the company? How did you grow with the company?
This December marks 30 years at Patterson-Schwartz. It’s not unusual for agents and employees to stay at Patterson-Schwartz for their entire careers. Nancy Colligan, Newark office admin, and Jack Teague, a Newark office agent and former manager, have been with the company for decades. Nancy and Jack are just two examples. It’s a testament to the company culture that people don’t want to leave.
I’m very lucky to have been chosen in 1995 to lead the Glasgow office, which has since been merged into Newark. For 28 years, I have been a member of the Leadership Team and am now a member of the Board of Directors.
What do you love about your job?
I love to help our agents become successful. Whether group training in Successful Start or one-on-one sessions, I enjoy the interaction with the agents and seeing them get better. It is very satisfying to see an agent get better every year and prosper in the real estate business. I’m very proud to have hired and trained Dave Watlington, Angela Allen, and Amber Durand – who are all members of the PSA Leadership Team now. I love my daily interactions with all the agents and the staff. We are very lucky to have a family atmosphere at Patterson-Schwartz.
What role does community service play in your life?
My engagement in the real estate industry – serving on the Professional Standards Committee for the Cecil County Board of REALTORS® and previously for the New Castle County Board of REALTORS® – is an extension of my deep involvement in my local community. As a resident of New Castle, I served as the President of the New Castle Public Library for many years. Currently, I play an active role on the Executive Committee of the New Castle Historical Society. My dedication to community service has been recognized with the Community Service Award by the Cecil County Board of REALTORS® in 2010 and the Mel Stout Ethics Award from the New Castle County Board of REALTORS® in 2021.
How do you spend a relaxing day?
My idea of a relaxing day is sitting on Dewey Beach with my wife, Marybeth. Then a few crushes, a nice dinner, and some live music with friends makes for a perfect day.
If I’m not at the beach, I like to spend time with my two granddaughters and grandson. I love to see them having a great time and enjoying life as only a child can do.
Ready to grow with us?
Chris Cashman epitomizes the spirit of Patterson-Schwartz—a dedicated leader whose journey has enriched both our company and the communities we serve. With an impressive 30-year tenure at PSA, he embodies the unwavering loyalty and commitment that define our organization. Chris is not just a Sales Manager; he’s also a mentor, a community builder, and a driving force behind our “exceeding expectations” mentality. If you’re intrigued by how you’ll be supported beyond your expectations, we’d love to chat with you about a career with Patterson-Schwartz!
When you think of managing a rental, do words like ‘stress’, ‘complexity’, or ‘headache’ come to mind? At Patterson-Schwartz, we’re all about transforming your rental property experience from a burden to a breeze!
Turn Troubles into Triumphs
Property management can come with its fair share of pitfalls. From settling tenant disputes to addressing those pesky midnight maintenance requests, these tasks can leave even the most resilient landlords reaching for the aspirin. But what if we told you there’s a better way?
At Patterson-Schwartz, we’re not just property managers – we’re problem solvers. Our team of seasoned experts is always ready to jump into action to resolve conflicts, handle repairs, and make your life as a landlord easy and enjoyable.
Compliance? Consider It Done!
Rules and regulations? Yes, they can be as fun as a root canal. But they’re an essential part of managing a rental property. Whether you’re trying to navigate the complexities of local housing codes or wondering if you’re meeting all state requirements, it can be a labyrinth of legalities.
But don’t stress – we’ve got your back. Our team stays up-to-date with all the latest regulations and ensures your property is always in compliance. Think of us as your personal regulatory navigators, steering you clear of any legal icebergs!
Maintenance Madness No More
Is your phone ringing off the hook with tenant requests for repairs? Or perhaps the fear of that call interrupts your peaceful slumber?
Say goodbye to maintenance nightmares. Patterson-Schwartz leaps into action, coordinating and addressing all maintenance requests promptly and professionally. Sleep easy knowing we’ve got it handled!
A Truly Transformative Experience
Here at Patterson-Schwartz, we believe owning a rental property should be a joy, not a job. Our mission is to transform your property management experience into something you look forward to, not dread. We turn the typical trials and tribulations of property management into positive, transformative experiences.
So, whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned property owner, let Patterson-Schwartz reinvent your rental property experience. We’ll help you turn the everyday hassles into extraordinary experiences. Ready for a change? Let’s make property management a breeze!
About Us
Patterson-Schwartz has helped homeowners manage their properties since 1977 and has earned a reputation for professionalism. We offer professional property management throughout Delaware and nearby communities in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Landlords may choose Full-Management, Non-Management, or the Landlord Assistance Program. Whether you are considering renting out your primary residence or seeking assistance with your investment portfolio, we offer service levels to fit your needs. Reach out today to get started!
In celebration of Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate’s 62nd anniversary this month and Charlie Schwartz, II’s milestone anniversary last month, we reflect on the profound impact both have had on our company and the real estate industry.
In the world of real estate, some individuals become living legends, shaping their companies and industries with a blend of wisdom, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s right. Among these luminaries is Charlie Schwartz, II, who has not only made a lifetime study of real estate but has also left an indelible mark on PSA. As we honor Charlie’s remarkable half-century journey and mark this significant milestone for our company, we reflect on PSA’s continued success, his personal insights, and the lessons that have defined his distinguished career.
In what ways has the company evolved since you first joined, and what do you believe has contributed to its longevity and success?
When I started, we had two offices: 913 Delaware Avenue and 1313 McKennans Church Road. I got office key number 37 so I’m figuring that was the total roster 50 years ago. The company had already grown from the original 12 agents who occupied 1013 Washington Street.
PSA has always strived to form relationships in the community and to be on the cutting-edge of technology as applied to real estate. What we thought of as cutting-edge technology back then seems rudimentary today. That is because we are constantly evolving and innovating. We are home-grown and locally owned and based, even as we number 500 or so now. Some years ago, we set ourselves on a path to serve as many markets within our sphere of influence as possible, i.e. not to be a boutique company. That is why you’ll see PSA signs everywhere in Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, and the eastern shore of Maryland.
913 Delaware Avenue opened in 1972 1313 McKennans Church Road opened in 1968
As you celebrate this milestone, what legacy or impact do you hope to leave behind in the real estate industry and within your company?
On a state and regional level, I am proud of the work that I did as NCCBOR® president back in the mid-1990s. That was the transition time from local MLS systems and associations to the regional giants that we have today. I still have some tar and feathers left on a few jackets after an unsuccessful attempt to merge the county associations into one state body, i.e. combine them with DAR®. This may yet happen, who knows. It still makes sense.
Market independence, financial prudence, and business acumen will always be in style.
It is important to understand that the residential real estate selling, leasing, property managing, etc. business in all of its forms is different from the business of running a real estate company. And from the company perspective, I have no doubt that the commitments that Joe, Chris, and I have made over the last ten years or so have built a solid foundation to insure that the transition to the next generation of PSA leadership has been successful and that the formula that our founders put in place over 40 years ago can serve the future generations as it has previous ones. Market independence, financial prudence, and business acumen will always be in style.
For my part, I thank all of my mentors, some who are still around, some who will be present tomorrow, and those who are long gone but not forgotten. I pray that in some small way I have passed along the values we cherish to the PSA family that I love.
Charlie was recognized for his service as past president of the New Castle County Board of REALTORS® at their 100 Year Anniversary Gala in 2023.
In an ever-changing industry, how do you stay inspired and motivated to continue your work in real estate year after year?
It is precisely because the business is ever-changing that makes it so interesting. For example, the implications of the Burnett v. NAR® decision are far from settled. The lawsuit is being appealed as I write this and, regardless of that outcome, perhaps other copycat suits will follow.
I’ll just say that certainly both buyers and sellers will continue to want some form of representation in real estate transactions. Clearly those transactions are becoming more rather than less complicated so a go-it-alone approach will not be fruitful for either buyers or sellers. If one accepts that premise, then it is about how compensation for those representation services will be structured – not whether they are necessary or not that they will be worked out going forward. I have seen significant adaptation to industry/market changes in the past and we will adapt as we always have. Good and faithful service never goes out of style.
Continuing the Legacy
Charlie’s 50-year journey with Patterson-Schwartz is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the enduring power of relationships. From humble beginnings with one office and a handful of agents, we’ve grown into a regional powerhouse with a footprint that stretches across Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, and Maryland’s eastern shore, while staying true to our roots.
Our legacy of values, handed down by mentors, is a testament to the enduring spirit of PSA — a family built on cherished values and a commitment to excellence in all that we do. As we celebrate Charlie’s remarkable 50-year milestone, we’re reminded that success in real estate, like any other field, hinges on a willingness to adapt and a commitment to excellence.
About Us
Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.
In the world of coastal real estate, having the right specialist by your side can make all the difference. Enter our Resort and Second Home Specialist (RSPS) certified agents – the experts who not only understand the local nuances but also possess the skills to navigate the shifting sands of the coastal real estate market.
November is Designation Awareness Month
November, known as Designation Awareness Month, is the perfect time to highlight the exceptional expertise our agents bring to the table. And speaking of exceptional, did you know that Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, recently claimed the #4 spot on Vacasa’s list of the best places to buy a vacation home in 2023? This recognition underscores the allure of coastal living in this stunning destination!
The Resort and Second Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certification is for REALTORS® who specialize in buying, selling, or management of properties for investment, development, retirement, or second-homes in resort, recreational, and/or vacation destinations. Our RSPS agents are well-equipped to assist you in your quest for the perfect resort or second-home!
The Value of a RSPS Certification
John Zacharias, based in our Ocean View office, attests to the significance of the RSPS certification: “NAR®’s RSPS certification is pivotal in my business. The course provides extra skills I can use to serve my clients and give them a leg up in decision-making and risk analysis when purchasing in a luxury market. Predominately selling second-homes in a resort area, an agent needs to give their clients their best knowledge in buying and selling in a different market from where they are coming from.”
Kara Brasure, stationed in our Rehoboth Beach office, adds, “I have had my RSPS certificate for several years now. I am a life-long resident of southern Delaware. I grew up in Rehoboth and enjoy working in Rehoboth. NAR® gives us monthly newsletters and marketing materials for having the RSPS certification.”
Extensive local knowledge and a commitment to ongoing education make our RSPS agents stand out. Jamie Coleman, from our Rehoboth Beach office, underscores this: “As an agent who works and lives in the Delaware beach market, I specialize in buying and selling properties for investment, retirement, and second-homes. Obtaining my RSPS certification was a natural next step in my career. It not only showcases my knowledge of our local market, but it also demonstrates my strong commitment to continuously educating myself. I believe this is necessary to best serve my clients and help them achieve their real estate goals!”
Spotlight on PSA Coastal Delaware
PSA’s coastal offices in Rehoboth Beach and Ocean View, Delaware, have grown to more than 40 REALTORS® who are proud to serve the real estate needs at the beach and surrounding communities of Sussex County, Delaware and Maryland.
Our Resort and Second Home Property Specialist agents are the ultimate guides to the luxurious coastal lifestyle. They seamlessly blend their local wisdom with top-tier education to guarantee that your real estate voyage is both effortless and enriched. When you opt for one of our RSPS agents, you’re not just choosing an agent; you’re embracing a dedicated partner deeply rooted in the region and relentlessly pursuing excellence Experience the allure of coastal living with us and let our RSPS agents guide you to your dream resort or second-home. Your dream coastal escape is just a conversation away.
About Us
Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.
As Veterans Day approaches, we take a moment to honor the brave men and women who have served our country with unwavering dedication and sacrifice. At Patterson-Schwartz, we hold a deep appreciation for our veterans and their families. We not only acknowledge Veterans Day, but also highlight the dedication of our real estate agents who have obtained special designations to assist military members and their families with their housing needs. Additionally, we share a heartfelt remembrance from one of our own veterans.
Honoring Those Who Served
Veterans Day is a time to express our gratitude to all the veterans who have defended our freedom. It’s a day to remember their bravery and the sacrifices they’ve made for our nation. We extend our sincerest thanks to all veterans, including those within our PSA family.
Our Agents’ Commitment to Military Families
At Patterson-Schwartz, we are proud to have a team of real estate agents across our market area who has obtained special designations specific to assisting military members and their families. These designations reflect their commitment to providing exceptional service to those who have served our country.
Jacob Levering– Rehoboth Beach My Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification is valuable to my business because it allows me to better serve both active-duty military and veterans. Being a veteran myself, I know the difficulties that come with moving around so often and transitioning out of the military. It can be a very stressful experience, so I’d like to help in any way I can to ease some of my clients concerns. This certificate gives me the knowledge I need in order to provide the best results for my military clients. It is truly a blessing to be able to give back to those who serve our country.
Lydia Ragonese– Dover I value my MilRES® designation because it combines my personal experience as a military spouse with specialized training, enabling me to effectively address the unique home purchase and sales needs of military members.
Kathy Maupin– Dover I chose to obtain the Military Residential Specialist (MilRES®) designation to honor my husband, stepfather, father, and brother who all served in the United States Air Force and my grandfather who served in the Royal Air Force. It was through a sense of duty that I felt I needed to continue to serve all military members – whether active-duty or veterans – with their housing needs.
Shana Delcollo & Diane Salvatore, Delcollo & Salvatore Team – Hockessin Supporting military families holds a special place in our hearts, as we have family members who have proudly served or are currently serving our country.
In 2016, we earned our Military Residential Specialist (MilRES®) designations, enabling us to provide expert guidance to military personnel clients as they pursue their housing and budgeting objectives. Our dedicated team remains actively engaged in the community, organizing fundraisers for Delaware Stockings for Soldiers and volunteering with Wreaths Across America to honor our veterans.
Vicki Feeney – Middletown I pursued my MRP designation because, coming from a military family, I appreciate their sacrifices on a whole different level. I cannot think of a better way to show my gratitude for veterans and service members more than to become an advocate for them.
Additional PSA Agents with military certificates or designations:
In the spirit of honoring Veterans Day, we’d like to share a touching remembrance from one of our own veterans, Lee Heck of our Hockessin office.
I am a veteran of the US Navy, having served from 1966-1970. Being a veteran to me is both a matter of great pride and also sorrow.
PRIDE: Like all veterans, who chose to put service to our country first instead of thinking about our own self-interest. For those who have not served, they should recognize all veterans for the huge commitment that is made from the first day we all raised our right hand to take the oath to defend the constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic and became members of the military. In doing so, each of us wrote a blank check to our country offering not only our time, but also acknowledging that we may die in service to our country. I am proud to have raised my hand to do my part to protect the county and the way of life that we all enjoy.
SORROW: For those veterans be they soldiers, sailors, airman, or marines from the beginning this country’s history who made the ultimate sacrifice for their generation and those in the generations that would follow. For my generation, a visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which was built to honor those who served but, more importantly, those 58,000 who died in that war. The sorrow of knowing that each name on the wall is someone’s son, brother, husband, father, uncle or, in a few cases, a sister, mom, aunt, or wife who did not return home to their family. Reading the individual names makes their sacrifice personal and all the more meaningful.
I am proud of my service and have no regrets. As most veterans, if asked, will tell you, they would do it again if the situation was the same.
To all the active duty service members now serving throughout the world especially those directly in harm’s way: May God bless you and protect you. To my fellow Navy shipmates: May you always have “fair winds and following seas.”
Serving Those Who Serve
Serving those who serve is at the heart of our company’s values because it embodies our unwavering commitment to community service. By supporting military members and their families, we not only assist in their housing needs, but also contribute to making our service area a better place to live and work. It’s our way of giving back to the heroes who have dedicated their lives to our nation. We salute all veterans for their service and sacrifice, and we are proud to have agents with specialized designations to assist them in their housing needs.
On this Veterans Day, let us remember and honor those who have given so much for our nation. Thank you for your service.
About Us
Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.
As a child accompanying his father on Saturday tours to a leader offering words of encouragement to up-and-coming agents, Charlie Schwartz, II, has made a lifetime study of real estate service with a personal touch. His stories are legendary, his wisdom unmatched, and his phone calls cherished.
To celebrate Charlie Schwartz’s remarkable 50-year milestone anniversary at Patterson-Schwartz, we sat down with him to learn the secrets to the company’s longevity and success and discover the anecdotes and lessons that have shaped his illustrious career. This Q&A session offers a golden opportunity to gain insights from one of our company’s true legends, who has not only witnessed the profound changes in the field, but has played a pivotal role in steering our company through these transformative years.
What do you believe sets the company apart in the real estate market, and how has it maintained its reputation over the years?
I think the key here is that we live in the markets that we serve and we serve the markets in which we live. Again, it goes back to the whole LOCAL theme. It’s not just an advertising slogan, we live it every day. You don’t have to go very far to talk to one of the owners of Patterson-Schwartz. It always tickles me when Chris Patterson and I are together and someone says, “There’s Patterson-Schwartz.” Well it may be Mr. Patterson and Mr. Schwartz; Patterson-Schwartz is a whole lot more. I want every one of us – our associates and our staff, from the most seasoned to the greenest – to think of themselves as Mr. or Ms. Patterson-Schwartz. That is the family aspect of the company.
How has your father’s legacy influenced your approach to business, and what principles have you carried forward from him?
Not a day goes by that I don’t use one of his expressions or recall one of his parables! There’s a statement attributed to Winston Churchill about the USA: “America always does the right thing, usually after trying everything else first.” Dad and Bill Patterson’s philosophy was invariably to do the right thing first, even if it hurt to do so. The examples of this are legion and I’m sure that any of the industry veterans who worked with them could relate a story or two. The company stood behind buyers when a builder-client made off with the escrow money they were holding. PSA funded the deposits of those who wanted them and I acted as general contractor to finish the homes for those who chose that option.
Another illustration I’ll share in more detail. PSA was one of the first companies to offer a home warranty program for the purchasers of our sellers’ homes. The program was called Palace Guard. Palace Guard was new and its concepts were largely untested from an actuarial standpoint. For example, it asked for no deductible, nor a pre-inspection – the absence of one or the other are prescriptions for disaster in warranty business as we know it today.
Dad and Bill Patterson’s philosophy was invariably to do the right thing first, even if it hurt to do so.
PSA sold about 1,500 of these policies, which offered coverage for one year after the settlement date on certain appliances and systems. There were perhaps 900 still active when the Palace Guard insurance company went belly-up. PSA made the decision to back the remaining policies until they expired. I can remember my dad coming into the old Milltown office in the mornings and asking the lead secretary how many policies were still active as of that day and if there were any new claims that had come in. Standing behind the promises that our people had made proved to be very expensive, but it was the right thing to do.
Charlie Schwartz (R) with his dad, PSA’s co-founder, Charlie Schwartz, Sr.Charlie Schwartz & Chris Patterson in 2021The PSA family c.1986, getting ready to celebrate the company’s 25th Anniversary. Charlie Schwartz, II, in lower left corner. Charlie Schwartz, Sr., with Bill Patterson in the center.
Can you share a memorable experience or anecdote from your early years in real estate that shaped your career or taught you an important lesson?
There are many, some of which are unprintable. But let me start by saying that there are seven or so words (depending on how you treat contractions) that are critical to remember to use frequently in almost any profession setting I can think of, but most importantly in real estate: “I don’t know but I’ll find out.”
I’ll give you an illustration from early in my career. I was showing a newer split-level house in North Star to a Dupont engineering type when the subject of insulated glass came up as we were approaching the family room sliding glass door. Now I knew nothing about the R-value of insulated glass since it was just coming on the residential scene. As I slid open the door to step onto the patio beyond, the buyer asked, “How much heat loss is there through that door?”
What should I have said? You got it.
What did I say? “Do you mean when it is closed or when it is open?”
To paraphrase an old saying, it is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than speak and confirm that supposition.
A Commitment to Excellence
Charlie’s 50-year journey with Patterson-Schwartz is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the enduring power of relationships. From humble beginnings with one office and a handful of agents, we’ve grown into a regional powerhouse with a footprint that stretches across Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, and Maryland’s eastern shore.
Our legacy of values, handed down by mentors, is a testament to the enduring spirit of PSA—a family built on cherished values and a commitment to excellence in all that we do. Charlie’s memorable anecdote about responding with “I don’t know but I’ll find out” exemplifies a profound lesson in humility and the value of continuous learning—an ethos that continues to drive PSA forward. As we celebrate Charlie’s remarkable 50-year milestone, we’re reminded that success in real estate, like any other field, hinges on a willingness to adapt and a commitment to excellence.
About Us
Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.
Meet Juan Fuentes, Jr., an unstoppable force at PSA. Since launching his career in 2015 from the buzzing Greenville office, Juan has blazed his own trail, swiftly pivoting from sales to leadership. Bolstered by an arsenal of over a decade’s managerial experience, he’s not just leading; he’s redefining support, constantly staying a beat ahead of market trends. You can often find him showing new agents the ropes in our Successful Start program, serving up hot topics at office round table discussions, and greeting attendees at the door of our latest Mid-Month Mixer event. Explore Juan’s exhilarating journey at PSA, unravel the principles that fuel his momentum, and get a front-row seat to the spirited, family-centric culture he fervently champions.
How long have you been at PSA? How did you grow with the company?
I joined PSA in March of 2015 as a full-time salesperson. I am “born and raised” in the Greenville office and have really enjoyed my time here. After about two and a half years of building my business as an independent agent, an opportunity to join the leadership team presented itself. Having over 13 years of managerial experience from my previous career helped to make that an easy decision. Being able to support agents in the same way that I had been supported just made so much sense to me. I’ve continued to work in sales while a manager, which helps keep me entrenched in market trends. This, in turn, allows me to serve our agents from a first-hand perspective.
Do you have a motto that you follow for your business, real estate, or in general?
In general, I believe in doing good by people. Doing what’s right even when it’s not the popular choice is a conscious decision. It’s always served me well in every single aspect of my life. Adversely, and because I’m imperfect, straying from this principal has never ended well for me.
What are your greatest strengths?
Knowing my weaknesses and knowing them well. I always know where I can improve so I try hard not to pretend or overcompensate in those areas. I just own it until I’m better. You get a more genuine me as a result!
How do you like to spend a relaxing day?
I really do enjoy playing golf whenever I can, but if that’s not possible, I like working with my hands. Home projects, and there are always plenty, are like therapy for me.
Ready to grow with us?
Juan embodies the spirited passion and dedication that set PSA apart. With his unique blend of sales expertise and leadership acumen, he consistently elevates our Greenville office, championing a culture that feels like family. If Juan’s journey of transformation and unyielding commitment to doing what’s right resonates with you, we’d love to chat with you about a career with Patterson-Schwartz!
In the bustling world of real estate, agents are constantly on the lookout for companies that offer unparalleled support, tech, and culture. It’s why we are proud to share the news that a noteworthy number of experienced agents have made the decision to join Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate. This is not only a testament to our brand, but also an indication of the trust the real estate community has in our values and systems.
The glowing sentiments of some our newest members spotlight the advantages of making PSA their professional home.
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KC DiAmbrosio, team leader of the five-person Team DiAmbrosio, recently made the switch to our Hockessin office. “As I enter my 16th year in real estate… I’m thrilled to be a part of a company that lives and breathes what it means to be local,” he noted, underlining the significance of our culture and advanced tech offerings.
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Gina Henry, a Greenville agent, celebrates our relationship-driven focus: “I love the community culture at Patterson-Schwartz… It’s clear to me that PSA values building and fostering relationships as much as I do.”
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Anne Peoples from Hockessin was drawn by our sophisticated Intranet system. “What initially drew me to Patterson-Schwartz was their new and robust Intranet system!… PSA truly has an empathetic ‘team’ approach to success…”
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Carly Simmons feels in harmony with her Greenville office, expressing, “I am so excited to be a part of the PSA family! I look forward to growing my business alongside so many wonderful people.”
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Gina Cockerille, hailing from our Ocean View office, beautifully summarizes the community spirit, “Making the switch to PSA has been the highlight of my career… I love how involved in the community the brokerage is…”
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Keith Seichepine joined our Greenville office and echoes the sentiment with a nod to the deep connection he shares: “I am proud to make the move to Patterson-Schwartz… This brokerage truly understands what it means to be a part of the community.”
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On the infrastructure and steadfast support, Jenn Palacio from Hockessin reveals, “Joining PSA was the absolute best decision I ever made for my real estate career… Since the first day, it has been such an uplifting and motivating experience for me…”
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For Sharon White, another esteemed agent from Greenville, it’s all about the unbeatable network and resources at PSA. “PSA has a great reputation and I have great working relationships with their agents. The network and resources they have in place will be a tremendous asset to all my clients.”
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Rose Walker of our Ocean View office, a veteran REALTOR® and Delaware resident, cherishes the local touch and warm welcome of PSA. “As a long-time resident of the Delaware resort area… I finally found my real estate family in Patterson-Schwartz!”
Take Your Career to New Heights
If you’ve been thinking about making a change, consider joining the ranks of the many satisfied agents who’ve already made the leap. Let us elevate your career to the heights you’ve always dreamed of.
