Photo Illustration/Photos Courtesy Michael Mcclean Signature Premier Properties
“A safe place to feel love. A space to be warm with family and friends.” That’s how Michael McLean, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson at Signature Premier Properties, defines the concept of home, and it is a sensibility he clearly has carried forward during more than 25 years in the real estate business. Conjuring up an image of a quintessential Long Islander, McLean exudes passion and compassion as he talks Million Dollar Listing, a key mistake first-time home buyers can avoid, and making the most of a dream day right here at home.
Michael McleanPhoto Courtesy Michael McClean / Signature Premier Properties
What do you love most about your career in real estate?
The relationships, for sure. Knowing I’m part of the process of helping someone find their home or help in selling their home is a beautiful part to me.
Describe your dream listing.
All my listings are a dream listing. I say that because homeownership is a dream many experience and many don’t. So, since each story is different and unique, I get the experience of being a part of that.
When you were a kid, how would you have answered the question “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
I always wanted to be a new anchor / reporter. I dabbled in it for a short time, but that’s what I always wanted to do—story tell.
What three words best describe your professional self?
Caring, good listener and a great multi-tasker.
Where do you find inspiration, personally and professionally?
Through people. I love to people watch, I love to learn through people. Everyone is different. Everyone has good and I love to see it in them—both professionally and personally.
If you could get a single question answered with complete accuracy, what would you ask?
What’s Heaven like?
What would your oldest friend be surprised to learn about you?
I overthink everything— that’s no surprise!
1 Alex Court in Lake Grove, one of Michael McClean’s sold listingsPhoto Courtesy Michael McClean / Signature Premier Properties
What is your favorite Long Island getaway and why?
Fire Island—it’s minutes away from where I live in Ronkonkoma. A beautiful ferry ride and It’s unlike anywhere. It’s peaceful, and I always feel so blessed when I’m there
What truly makes you laugh out loud?
A good joke!
What’s the best movie or series you’ve seen about real estate—and what would you say about it to people considering watching it?
Million Dollar Listing! Watch it, but don’t think every part of that show is real. There’s more to a real estate transaction then a quick call to negotiate. There’re far more steps to it than that!
What’s the craziest question you’ve ever been asked about real estate…and can you share your answer?
“Can I buy a home if I have no money or bad credit?” And the short answer to it was…“No, you can’t” Although I did offer tips to helping.
What is the most spontaneous thing you have ever done?
Jumped on Amtrak and took a train to Florida.
What skill or talent do you wish you had?
Not being afraid to fly in an airplane.
What is the biggest mistake most first-time home buyers make along the way toward finding a first home?
Not having the home inspected. All buyers should always call a home inspector to make sure they learn about the home they are buying!
What is your favorite room in your own home and why?
My kitchen. It’s large, and that’s where everyone comes together to laugh and be together while eating.
What three people, dead or alive, would you invite over for dinner—and what would you serve them?
Rosie O’Donnell, because I find her hysterical. My grandmother, who my mother never even met, and my Aunt Alice. I would serve them all pizza and wine!
What motto do you try to live by?
Be kind to everyone.
Describe your perfect day on Long Island.
A sunrise or sunset on one of Long Islands beaches.
