We are very pleased to announce that we have added a fantastic new agent to The Harrisonburg Homes Team! Matt Ogden is an energetic, charismatic, and intelligent guy with lots of professional experience and strong ties to the area. Needless to say, we’re thrilled to have him on board and we want you to get to know him as well – read on to learn a little bit more about Matt.
Matt has made his home in the Harrisonburg area for over 20 years and is a double-Duke (’96, ’02M). With nearly 20 years hospitality experience and over a dozen years in finance and sales roles prior to joining The Harrisonburg Homes Team, Matt brings a unique perspective on professionally servicing client’s needs and goals. Matt is also a self-proclaimed “numbers guy” and enjoys looking into the detailed analysis of the local market and individual transactions. Outside of the office, you may find Matt gardening with his children, teaching them to fish, or sneaking in a round of golf (once the lawn is mowed, of course).
How long have you lived in the Harrisonburg area?
After growing up in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, I first came to Harrisonburg as an undergrad in 1992 and immediately felt like this was home. The area has never let me go since then, and I’ve lived in both the city and county over the last 24 years.
What did you do before real estate?
My first job as a college grad was as an orderly at the old RMH. A second stint at JMU led me through the MBA program, and I ended up at RR Donnelley, where I’ve served in a few finance and sales roles for more than a dozen years. Over that time, I’ve also had the pleasure of working nearly 20 years in the hospitality industry, with my last two stops being “new-old” Calhoun’s and the Joshua Wilton House.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in real estate?
My path to real estate began in a very similar way to Brant’s experience. My wife and I were referred to Chris to help sell our townhouse and find our family home. I always recalled the perfect combination of numbers geek (his words, not mine) and personal touch throughout the process. As I thought of ways to combine my experience and skills with my love of the Harrisonburg-Rockingham community, real estate became an obvious choice. It also helps to explain my addiction to HGTV.
What is your role on the team?
As an agent for buyers and sellers, my goal is to immerse myself in the local market so that I can guide my clients through the life cycle of home ownership and the pursuit of their “forever” home.
What do you love about your job?
My experience in the hospitality industry taught me that I am happiest when I am making others happy. I can’t think of too many things that make people happier than finding the home of their dreams.
Best place in Harrisonburg for a cup of coffee?
I’ll take an iced Arnold Palmer over a cup of joe, but my wife tells me Court Square Coffee is the bee’s knees.
Favorite outdoor dining?
The best meal to be found outdoors is in a shaded parking lot on JMU’s campus six Saturdays (and hopefully more) every fall. I can smell the grill now.
Join us in welcoming Matt Ogden to our team!
Contact him by email, stop by our office to chat in person, or give him a call at 540-578-0165!