As she enters her 47th year in the real estate industry, learn how this former junior high English teacher builds personal relationships and manages a strong professional network.
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Georgia State Agent Lynda Hester’s driver’s license number is 85751. “My long experience in this industry and the fact that it still excites me is a great example of how finding your place in the business world allows you to enjoy every minute of what you do,” she said.
Hester believes that hard work, perseverance, determination coupled with optimism are the ingredients for a successful and lasting career. “In what other profession can a woman of a certain age continue to be so successful? It’s great to be appreciated for the knowledge gained from working with hundreds of clients and customers over the years.
Name: Linda Hester
title: Broker Assistant
experience: August will start my 47th year
Place: Rabun County, Georgia
Brokerage company name: Compass Real Estate
How did you get started in real estate?
In 1978, I was teaching English at a junior high school. Not many ninth graders are excited about learning how to use adverbs correctly, and in my mind, I felt like there had to be a career that better suited my skills so that I could make the people I helped happy.
A friend casually said, “You’d be great in real estate!” That’s all. I signed up for the course.
During the first class, there was a guy there taking the broker exam. Sitting in class, he said nonchalantly, costs $1,000 an hour because he misses out on working with clients. This statement blew my mind and lit a fire within me. Thankfully, it turns out he was right. I have been able to make a good living and, along the way, have helped hundreds of people realize their dream of homeownership.
What are some things you know now that you wish you knew when you started?
I wish I had known earlier that making and keeping appointments with family and friends is just as important as making appointments with customers and clients.
It’s OK to make an appointment to watch your child’s soccer game, and if someone calls to see the property, tell them you have an appointment at 4 p.m. but you can accommodate them at 1 p.m. or 6 p.m. Your child will always remember your presence at the game.
When I learned this lesson, it changed my life for the better.
What is your most important piece of advice for a newly licensed broker?
Don’t be shy. New licensees would be wise to understand that from now on, every conversation they have needs to include a request for help. This help comes in many forms.
The grocery store cashier may have a relative who is considering selling their house. Everyone in this agent’s high school or college class will buy a house at some point. If they purchase in another market, stay in touch and ask them for permission to recommend.
Whenever someone you know is asked who their real estate agent is, your goal is to have your name be the answer. Be that person! The best way to find opportunities is to ask for them.
What makes a good leader?
I believe a good leader is one who leads by example, and if you want others to learn from you, it’s important to practice what you preach. A great leader will even go a step further and make sure their team is prioritized. To create a conducive learning environment, leaders must ensure that those around them feel comfortable and supported so that they ultimately have the confidence to grow independently.
What’s the one thing you wish every agent knew?
I want every agent to understand the importance of cultivating connections and the impact their work can have on their clients’ lives. The core of being a real estate agent is making connections that turn into sales. Agents who focus on their customers’ needs and build a strong network of contacts will be more effective and successful.
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