To continue learning is to continue growing. When it comes to your real estate business, the more you know, the better you will do. In the following interview, Barbara Baker, Broker/Owner with Realty ONE Group Southwest in Temecula, Calif., talks education and success.
Region served: Temecula, Calif.
Years in real estate: Since 1975
Number of offices: 1
Number of agents: 270
Best piece of advice when it comes to achieving real estate success: Love what you do and do what you love.
Motto/work philosophy that you live by: In order to receive, you must first be willing to give.
Favorite part of your job: Interacting with my agents.
What makes Temecula, Calif., a great place to live?
We’re located in a well-priced area with many community benefits. In addition to having one of the top school systems in the state, we’re an hour away from the mountains, desert and ocean.
How does your company make its agents’ jobs easier?
After all these years in the real estate industry, I have been blessed to find a company with a culture that I believe is second to none. Not only is Realty ONE Group a forward-moving machine offering the most up-to-date technology, our founder—Kuba Jewgieniew—always leads and never follows. In fact, I attribute the amazing and rapid growth of my office to the culture and tools that Realty ONE Group provides. We have a true family atmosphere in that we’re always willing to help one another and enjoy the continued growth and success as an office.
How does your firm use technology to better serve its clients?
Realty ONE Group is leaps above the competition when it comes to technology. In addition to a back-end portal where all real estate business can be conducted, agents also have access to a paperless system, educational library, online webinars, online listing presentations, marketing tools and a variety of tutorials and communication tools.
What is your best tip for dealing with a picky buyer?
I believe that the art of listening is absolutely crucial when dealing with any client, buyers in particular. If you listen long enough, they’ll tell you what it is they’re looking for. In addition to asking the right questions, it’s equally important to know your marketplace, as buyers need to know that they’re able to trust you.
What’s your top tip for keeping your agents motivated in today’s market?
Keeping agents motivated is very important. Whether they’re a new agent or even a top producer, it’s important to take the time to give them a pat on the back and recognize them for a job well done. I also believe that knowledge is power, so we hold ongoing training throughout the month and bring in qualified speakers, both from a business and motivational perspective. We also share a very special culture in our office that includes celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and special events. And last but not least, at the close of escrow, we hit the Realty ONE Group gong.
For more information, visit www.realtyonegroupsouthwest.com/.
