Originally from Gothenburg, Sweden, Christofer Fogelberg moved to the south of Spain back in 1999. After a few years spent soaking up the region and all it had to offer, he dove into the real estate industry in 2001 and launched his own imprint, Start Group, in 2003. Christofer’s professional niche is decidedly unique, and he offers clients an unmatched international pedigree with experience fielding business from multiple countries, in several languages, and for properties of all kinds. Undaunted by a challenge and inspired by the breadth his professional path has afforded him, Christofer is at the helm of a sixteen-year career built on first-hand insight and consistent delivery.
Christofer’s business is based out of the idyllic destination region of Costa del Sol, perched on southern Spain’s Mediterranean coast. There, he and his team offer comprehensive real estate services that span seven languages and appeals to vacationers and expats from an array of European countries. With 60% of his office’s business generated by repeat and referral clientele, Christofer and Start Group have cultivated a sterling reputation for professionalism and on-the-ground expertise on Costa del Sol, where international buyers rely on his team’s precision and follow- through. What’s more, Christofer and his team set themselves apart by offering services that are tailored to the individual— from the language business is conducted in, to the corresponding knowledge of currencies, exchange rates, and international negotiations. Accordingly, Christofer and his team inspire a sense of confidence and security in those they serve, and stay communicative with clientele throughout a transaction’s progression. Likewise, the Start Group teams makes an effort to reach out and connect with their base, using newsletters, e-mails, and the wide reach of social media to stay friendly with past clientele, acting as an ongoing resource long after close. “Buying or selling a holiday home is about helping someone fulfill his or her dream,” Christofer explains. “Finding clients the right property for what they want is next to priceless. It also makes the work fun, because you get to see lots of happy faces and if you manage to do it correctly.”
To market listings, Christofer and his team incorporate the leading international listing platforms online, posting properties in several languages to secure maximum exposure around the globe. Additionally, Start Group publishes their own property magazine, published a few times a year to generate a steady stream of interest in their roster of offerings. All in all, Christofer and his team act as wise counselors amidst sales that are often international, accounting for the complexities of a remote purchase, and navigating the negotiations and contracts of buyers and sellers the world over. “We’re available to help our clients even when they move in,” Christofer explains. “The services we offer pay off tenfold—especially for clients who live abroad and navigating international realty for the first time. We offer a helping hand from the beginning, so clients can feel at ease with their purchase. We don’t just reach the end of a transaction and say goodbye, we act as ongoing support.”
To stay involved in his community, Christofer and his team give to a variety of causes that support children, including the Adahimar Children’s Association and the Global Gift Foundation. Christofer is also passionate about giving back to organizations that support animals and wildlife. In his free hours, he relishes quality time spent with family, enjoying the nearby beach. He also enjoys traveling internationally and scuba diving.
As for the future, Christofer has hopes to continue his business’s steady growth, fortifying his relationships with area developers and growing within the thriving Spanish market. Today, nearly two decades since he launched his ambitious career, Christofer’s abiding goal is to deliver meaningful, impactful results to those he serves. With experience, courtesy, and capability guiding the way, the future is bound to be sunny for Christofer Forgelberg and his team at Start Group.
This is an extract from an article originally published in “Top Agent Magazine“, #10 2017.
