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Name: Deborah Penny
title: Designated management broker and broker operation
experience: 35+ years old
Place: san ramon california
Brokerage company name: eXp Real Estate California
How did you get started in real estate?
In the early years of our marriage, before I obtained my license, my husband and I moved several times due to company relocations. Despite the real estate horror stories we heard from family and friends, the agents we worked with were not only knowledgeable, but understood the stress associated with buying and selling a home and made it a great experience.
When I decided to pursue a career in real estate, I wanted to make sure my clients had a strong advocate for their position and the depth of experience we have. I can honestly tell you it has had its ups and downs, but it’s been an amazing journey that I don’t want to miss.
What is your most important advice to a newly licensed broker?
To those of you who decided to get your broker’s license and do so, congratulations! Now, please note that with a title, you have a higher level of knowledge and greater responsibility. Understand the changing nature of this industry and participate in ongoing education. Obtaining this license is just the tip of the iceberg.
What do you wish every agent knew?
The real estate industry is not for the faint of heart. It is constantly changing, requires persistence, continued education, and is full of highs and lows. If you want to be successful, plan to pursue your real estate career full-time.
Additionally, this is a people-first business and your success depends on the trust and connections you build, not only with potential clients, but with others in the real estate community. Take the time to understand your client’s needs and goals and become a reliable and empathetic advisor.
In this profession, you get out what you put in, and setbacks provide the best lessons, and those lessons make you a stronger agent. Stay the course, keep refining your skills, bet on yourself, and you will weather the ups and downs and achieve long-term success.
What are some things you know now that you wish you knew when you started?
be yourself. Don’t be someone you’re not because that’s not sustainable. Things won’t always go your way and people won’t always be nice. Learn to adapt and adjust when needed.
Master the basics, then build on them by embracing new trends, technologies and customer needs. Even if it’s scary and takes you far out of your comfort zone, keep going. I promise you, it’s worth it!
Troy Palmquist is the Director of Development at eXp California. Follow him on Instagram or connect with him on LinkedIn.
