I've been doing real estate full time almost 13 years now... lucky 13 is almost here. I hope that means everything will just fall into my lap by that point.
Back in October 2000, when I got licensed, I wish I knew I would have to start all over again once I finally got things moving along smoothly. I was the #1 agent in my office after about 7 years, and then I had to give it all up and move to another market.
When I started over in the new market, I wish I knew that the percentage of Realtors to population was about quadruple what it was in Dallas and that everyone in Austin knows a Realtor or is related to a Realtor. So frustrating!!
I also wish I knew how young I was going to continue to look. For some people, doing this 12+ years means nothing when all they see when they look at me is someone in their early 20's. Some will say, "Waaahhh, what a problem to have!" and I say, Yes! It is a problem when there is an entire older population who doesn't want to work with me because of looks. It prevents me from completely breaking into the higher price point more consistently with more move-up buyers instead of first time buyers.
Don't get me wrong, I like my first timers as I'm good with educating them, but I would like more move-up opportunities as well.
I also wish I would have been told that when the market flip to a Seller's market, you have to drop everything and show properties with kids in tow just so your buyers don't miss out on another house with multiple offers. It's almost like becoming a slave to your clients.
Other than these things, that 24 year old was a smart cookie. She knew the right questions to ask before getting into the business. She was realistic in expectations. She set goals and strived to reach them every single year. I look back and wonder if that 24 year old should have chosen a different path, but then I look out my window and wonder what other profession would have given me the flexibility I've become accustomed to?
The picture above is from March 2005. It's been almost 5 years at this point and so much wisdom in those eyes... I also knew immediately not to use this picture in my advertising. Solid colors, people!! Stripes are too busy!!
**Are You Packed Yet?**
Donna Harris, REALTOR®
RE/MAX Austin Skyline
www.DonnaHomes.com
Donna@DonnaHomes.com
austin-texas-homes-for-sale.com
Austin TX Real Estate
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** Multi-Million Dollar Producer Year after Year **
Copyright© 2013 By Donna Harris, All Rights Reserved. You may re-blog with links back to this post.
* What I Wish I Knew When I Started Real Estate * was first published on donnahomesblog.com.
