Meet the Thornton Realty Team!

Meet the Thornton Realty Team and learn how the quality of schools impacts where you purchase your home!

GLAMoms recently spoke with Dan Kreps of the Thornton Realty Team about buying or selling a home in the Greater Lansing area and how quality schools play a tremendous role when families are looking to purchase a home.

Are you in the market for a new home? The Thornton Realty Group has years of experience that can help with all of your buying and selling needs. And with the current housing market – dependable and accurate housing information is key!

Having a major university close by can be a draw to home buyers. Explain what other factors make Greater Lansing an excellent place to purchase a home or how it assists when selling a home.
The Greater Lansing Area has some of the best school districts in the state and that in turn can help when it comes to selling a home. It also creates a demand for people wanting to move to this area!

Myself as a former teacher understands the importance of education and the effects it has on a community. Sean Gardner and myself both have young kids about to start school in this area and we just like other parents want nothing but the best for them and we are lucky to have so many exceptional districts to choose from. Jeff Thornton and Louise Omar had kids that went to districts in this area and were extremely happy with the quality of education provided.

People know about MSU and how outstanding a university it is in the area but I do not think people truly understand how great all levels of education are in this area.

In a recent Trulia survey, 19% of Americans indicated that their dream home is located in a great school district. But among parents of children under 18, the percentage of Americans who want to live in a great school district jumps to 35%. According to 2021 niche.com –  Okemos ranked the 4th best school district in Michigan, East Lansing was #21, Williamston was #28, Haslett was #31.

What questions do you recommend that homeowners ask when first meeting with a real estate agent?
I think some good questions to ask are how long has the agent been doing real estate in the area. You want someone who has the experience and knowledge in the areas you are looking to buy or sell a home in. I also believe it is important for the buyer or seller to ask how each process works, if your clients understand the process beforehand it can make for a much smoother experience. Does the agent do real estate full time or part time? You want to make sure the agent you are choosing is able to fully do their job and guide you through the process, which means being available at any given time. 

As a realtor when I meet with clients I want to know what their goals are in buying or selling a home. Have they bought or sold a home before and then go through the process with them so they can feel comfortable. The more information and knowledge you can give to a buyer or seller before they start the process can only help make sure the process goes smoothly for everyone involved. It also creates a foundation of trust and open communication which is key to any real estate transaction.

We would love to get to know you more!

What are a few of your favorite restaurants and shops in the Greater Lansing area?
Taste of Thai in East Lansing, State Side Deli in Okemos, Tavern 109 in Williamston, Dagwood’s in Lansing, Studio Shop in Williamston, Capital City Market in Lansing, Horrocks Farm Market in Lansing, Michigan Barnwood & Salvage in Mason.

His son in law, Sean Gardner joined the team in 2016 after he and Jeff’s daughter were married. Sean has worked in the customer service industry for almost 20 years before becoming a Realtor. Sean is a big sports fan, loves to play golf, fish, and his wife, beautiful daughter and son are the most important things to him.

Sean’s best friend and best man at his wedding, I, joined the team in October 2018. Before starting my career in Real Estate, I was a high school teacher and varsity basketball coach. I’m also a huge sports fan, enjoy playing golf, being outdoors, and love to spend time with my family, especially my sons.

Louise Omar has worked with Jeff over 15 years as an agent and now as our administrative assistant. Louise has lived in Williamston for 25 years and enjoys gardening, reading, and spending time with her husband of 25 years.

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us, Dan. This is such useful information when families are starting the home buying or selling process!

How to get in contact :
Dan Kreps 586-604-1906
[email protected]
Facebook: Thornton Realty Team
Instagram @thorntonrealtyteam