Atwater, California is more than my hometown, it’s where my roots are and somewhere that I am very proud to be from. My Grandfather was the Mayor here, and my father practiced real estate for decades in Atwater before I even thought about getting into the business.
I have watched this town grow so much over the years, but it still has the down home, quiet, and slow-paced feel that I have always loved, which is reflected in the strong character and kind personalities of the people in my community. Even though this is where I was raised and still reside, my path to the real estate field in Merced County was not immediate or direct, instead it was a winding road that led me to my current profession.
After high school and a few other starter jobs, I began working at The Mansion House, a fine dining restaurant in Merced, that was owned by my Aunt. I felt immense pride in working at a family owned business, and through this early experience I learned the values of providing customers with the ultimate in service and the dignity that comes with feeling ownership in my work, two characteristics that are still very much part of my professional career.
I worked at the Mansion House for about 10 years before I was hired at JR Wood Fruit Company, a local landmark in Atwater for nearly 50 years. It was a wonderful experience working Research and Development Lab. The job was very interesting and included everything from testing dirt, leaf and pond water samples, to developing and creating juices and special recipes. I created a smoothie base line with 12 flavors that eventually ended up on QVC for sale, and even worked alongside Martin Chan to create a line of frozen stir fry vegetable blends. It was great working with what I considered somewhat of a “star”. I remember watching Martin Chan’s cooking show on the local PBS station as a kid and loving his sense of humor. Working in the lab taught me the attention to detail and mastery of skill that I still apply to my profession as a REALTOR®.
In the late 1980’s, I attended my cousin’s wedding and met a local man named Eddie Franks. Eddie and I started dating shortly after we were introduced, and a few years later we were married. He is a General Contractor by trade, and has built many homes in Merced County and the McSwain Area.
Shortly after our wedding, we had our first child, “Little Eddie” and we were so excited to bring a new Franks into this world! Having a baby changed my life, as it does with everyone, but with me it really made me desire to work for myself and own my own schedule, so I could spend more time with my family. As long as I had known him, my husband had always encouraged me to follow my father’s path into real estate. I never really considered myself a sales woman, so I always waved off the suggestions, but when my son was born, I started to consider different options.
While I was pregnant, I attended a real estate seminar, and later completed home study courses while Little Eddie was a newborn. Through diligence, perseverance, and patience, I became I became a licensed REALTOR® in 1999, and I have not looked back! After I earned my credentials, I worked for Century 21 M & M Associates for 16 years, and I have been at HomeSmart PV & Associates for two and a half years since.
As with any career, there have been many ups and downs and changes in the nearly 20 years that I have been a REALTOR®. I have been fortunate to have great resources that have contributed to my success. My father, who has now been in the business over 40 years, has literally seen and done it all, has always been a mentor to me and been there to guide me when questions arose. Eddie, my husband, has also been so supportive and we were very fortunate to work together early on in my career selling many of the properties that he had developed around Atwater and McSwain areas.
While the support and guidance of my dad and husband have always been helpful, I attribute the successes that I have had to applying the lessons that I learned early on in my life and throughout my career. I still do not consider myself a sales woman, because I believe in always being direct and honest with my clients. I always put their wants and needs first, and I do not stop working until my customers are satisfied. I believe that proper preparation, attention to detail, and unmatched integrity are the crucial factors in my successes as an agent.
Even though my background and experience are vital to my accomplishments in this field, my knowledge and connection to Atwater and Merced County are what sets me apart. This community is not only where I am from, it’s a major part of who I am. I know the area, I know the people, and I know the market, because of that I can provide my clients with the best service in this region.
I would love nothing more than to lend my knowledge and experience toward helping you, your family and your friends with your real estate endeavors. I don’t expect your business simply because of our relationship—I only ask that you take the time to interview me and see if I might be the best agent for you.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. When you or someone you know is in need of a real estate agent, I hope you give me the opportunity to demonstrate my services and interview for the job.
Sincerely,
Monica Franks
REALTOR®
