Patience and Encouragement Were Key for These First-Time Homebuyers

Why Marcus and Ari chose Cesily Roberts as their agent

An assistant principal and head of culture at a local KIPP school, Marcus Goodwin met Rêve agent Cesily Roberts on a weekend, when she stopped to admire the work of his side hustle — a landscaping business. She asked Marcus for his business card and promptly started referring him to her real estate clients. The two became friends, and Marcus soon asked Cesily about the first-time home buying process. He figured he’d be ready to buy in about a year’s time, and when the time came, he introduced Cesily to Ari Ferrand-Rodgers, his new wife. Cesily was a good listener, taking in all of their questions and concerns, and focusing on the details of what the newly married couple was hoping to find in a dream home.

What they were looking for

Marcus and Ari had been renting a townhome in Belle Chase and were excited (and nervous) about the possibilities of becoming first-time homebuyers. They wanted to stay in the general New Orleans area but were open to different neighborhoods. Looking for adequate backyard space, a two-story open concept floor plan, multiple bedrooms, and a spacious primary bedroom, they were intent on sticking to their 300K budget.

How Cesily offered consistent encouragement

Ari explains that it was a lengthy 6-month process to try to buy a home during the pandemic. Says Ari, “Cesily’s patience with us as first time homebuyers was key. It was an exciting experience, but it was a bit overwhelming as well.” At one point, Ari and Marcus thought they should stop looking due to the uncertain economy and the trouble they were having finding what they wanted within their budget. But Cesily gently urged them not to give up; she wanted them to take advantage of historically low interest rates.

According to Marcus, “Cesily built us up with encouragement, which made us realize we could do it, and her consistency really drove the entire process.” While they appreciated that approach, Ari and Marcus also valued that Cesily wasn’t aggressive – and knew when to give them the space and time they needed to make their own decisions.

When they eventually found a beautifully renovated home on the Northshore, they were immediately smitten. Even though they didn’t know anyone who lived in the area, they had ventured across the lake previously to try restaurants and visit Fountainebleau State Park. When they went with Cesily to see the house, they brought their family members along, and everyone fell in love. Cesily then worked hard to negotiate a deal that matched their budget. Says Ari, “We didn’t expect to end up buying on the Northshore, but we love it here. Thankfully, we have everything we wanted and more.” Their 6 year old daughter adores the house as well.

Marcus points out that because Cesily had referred him as a landscaper to her clients, he knew he could reach out to her anytime and considered her a friend – even before he and Ari started the home buying process. But what they ultimately learned is what a great realtor Cesily is. Marcus notes, “I felt like from day one, she was like a second mom to me – caring, lovable, patient, and giving advice at the right time — all those maternal things you want in a person. When you’re around her, you feel like you’re family.”

Adds Ari, “We just truly want to thank Cesily for everything she did for us throughout the experience. Our next goal is to purchase a rental property, and we intend to work with Cesily again.”