Year One Real Estate Reflection
October rounds out my first full year as a real estate agent, and as I reflect on this year, I am flat out amazed. I’m amazed at how big of a decision it was for me to leave the career I knew and how right that decision feels now. I am amazed by the leadership at my brokerage and the industry training that is available, and I am amazed by you — my friends, my family, my acquaintances and those of you I have not yet met.
As I think about this past year, and all that I have learned, here are a few points I want to share with you, whether you are currently in the market or not:
Clients [you] are inspirational
Time and time again, I have been so inspired by the people I have served. From purchasing first homes to forever homes and even relocating across the country, the people and families I have been honored to work with inspire me. Along with home sales, come the stories and big life changes of each and every client. Sometimes it’s preparing a place to welcome a new family member, and sometimes it is a total career-move. Whatever the case, each of you inspire me to be the best real estate agent I can be to make those life-changing decisions simpler.
Without your stories, my industry wouldn’t exist and I am grateful to be included in your book — even if that happens to just be in the footnotes.
Having a strong team of professionals is key
Whether buying, selling, or renovating your home, building a trusted team of professionals to get the job done is critical. On average a homeowner in Nebraska will complete a personal home sale once every thirteen years.¹ The housing market changes often and changes quick — involving pros that review the market daily will make your experience smoother.
Lenders, title companies, and home inspectors are just a few of the roles involved in day-to-day home sales. Each party brings its own specialties to the table. As your agent, I work to ensure that you feel comfortable and knowledgeable throughout your transaction and have trust in the professionals sitting around your closing table.
Similar to a real estate transaction, it is important to know who you can call for regular home maintenance and larger renovation projects alike. Choosing service companies and contractors can be overwhelming — especially when your floor drain is progressively backing up…I write from experience. When the “joys of homeownership” rear their lovely face, or more excitingly you’re thinking about renovating, finding trustworthy pros is crucial to the well-being of your home. Check out my tips below on choosing the team that is right for you.
How to create a team of home professionals you can trust.
Opportunity is everywhere — even when you’re not looking
This is one that really hits home for me. Last year, not only brought about a career shift for me, but it also brought about a new home for Garrett and I that was not on our agenda. Even when you may not be considering a move, sometimes that perfect property hits the market and the next thing you know you’re packing boxes. In our case, our perfect property had been on the market for months waiting for us to find it.
Lincoln is a city with a multitude of great neighborhoods each with their own charming restaurants, shops, parks, and trails. Many of the homes across our city have so much character — some waiting to be discovered, and many waiting to be listed. And if you’ve been watching the housing market over this summer, you’ve probably noticed how quickly homes are selling. On average homes in Lincoln are on the market for sixteen days before accepting an offer.² When the stakes are high and the market’s pace is so rapid, make sure you are prepared to jump when opportunity presents itself — even when you think you might not be ready.
And if you’ve been house hunting for what feels like forever, hang in there! It’s been a tough summer for many buyers, and it’s only a matter of time before opportunity comes knocking on your door.
The real estate industry is relentless and cultivates creativity
In the early weeks of the COVID-19 shutdown, real estate agents, lenders, and title companies got creative to conduct minimal-contact closings for clients. Some of my clients signed paperwork through car windows in parking lots to prevent the spread of the virus. Showings required masks and hand sanitizer and open houses were conducted virtually. As the weeks carried on and it became evident that real estate business could continue safely, state leaders and real estate association representatives worked closely with our state legislature to authorize remote notary. This had been on the docket to be considered later in 2020, but with the immediate need for social distancing and minimal contact the real estate industry found a way to push through and create a new method for business that was safe for everyone.
Not only does the industry as a whole generate creative solutions, whenever I step foot in a property, my creative wheels start rolling. I cannot stop strategizing ways to enhance a property’s functionality and design — my brain literally does not turn off. And when that property is purchased by one of my clients, my creative meter goes full throttle. I’ll whip up mock-ups, paint samples, and bring flooring options to help clients envision their optimal space.
I find fulfillment in working with clients to create spaces that support their lifestyles. This industry is such a great fit for me and I would love sharing my creative energy with you.
1. Evangelou, N. (2020, January 8). How long do homeowners stay in their homes? National Association of Realtors. https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlook/how-long-do-homeowners-stay-in-their-homes
2. Great Plains Regional MLS. (2020). Monthly Indicators (April, May, June, July, August). Showing Time.
3. Light Bulb Image by Alexander Jawfox on Unsplash
