Martin Lenkowski New Pelican Author
When John Kroll's parents, Carl and Eileen, first founded Kroll Realty in Fort Lauderdale 72 years ago, Federal Highway was just a two-lane white dirt road. It was back in 1951 that his parents bought land and built a separate building, where the family business continues today.
Kroll said her father worked for Anaconda Realty in the 1940s, but quit his job and started his own business. Mr. Kroll took over the family business in 1981 and is currently the owner of the brokerage firm.
At one point, Kroll Realty had additional locations in Broward and Palm Beach counties. However, the current trend is to consolidate them into one office. Kroll said the company is the oldest real estate company in Broward County. “The Keys are older, but they started in Miami-Dade County.”
He describes his company as a boutique office. “We're very local. We're a small, quirky place,” he says. “We're not global… We also have luxury properties. People know our name. We have a brand name. Our agents are experienced. They know the market. I know.”
He added that Kroll Realty's friendly and knowledgeable staff gives them personalized attention. “It’s more of a local business.”
Kroll says today's real estate market is hot, especially the high-end properties his company specializes in, such as properties with deep waterways. Others research schools and choose an area. “These assets will appreciate in value.”
Kroll Realty lists and sells properties as far north as Port St. Lucie and calls itself a “tri-county” business.
Kroll speaks highly of his subordinates. “I have agents ranging in age from their early 20s to their 70s,” he says. “The good thing is that the people who come to work here make it a family atmosphere. I take a personal interest in every person. I want to make sure they all succeed. .”
Kroll says that to be successful in real estate, you not only need to be able to make a good impression on others, but you also need to be proactive. “You have to build relationships and trust with others.”
Having grown up in the area, Kroll knows not only the market well, but also many of the residents. “Many of the people I grew up with have held positions of honor.”
For more information, visit krollrealty.com or call 954-771-7200.
