Above: Elaine Graf
Real estate professionals are some of the hardest workers out there, always grinding for their business and the clients they serve. As they push every day to be the best, those who have demonstrated outstanding service, skill and professionalism in serving buyers deserve to be recognized.
Going above and beyond for each and every client, Elaine Graf—senior executive associate and broker associate at Wisconsin-based First Weber REALTORS®—points to her longevity in the industry as well as her work with clients as two key factors that played a significant role in her being inducted into the ABR® Hall of Fame.
“When you work hard in this industry and you represent people the way they want to be represented, it’s nice to be recognized,” says Graf, who has 24 years of experience in the residential real estate industry under her belt.
When it comes to working with clients, Graf says that being committed to communication is No. 1. “People want to be part of the process, and just like any industry you’re in, it makes sense to us. But when people are getting into purchasing a home, just terminology—things that we talk about on an everyday basis—doesn’t always make sense to them,” explains Graf.
“Explaining the process and being in communication with clients are probably the biggest compliments I receive when clients send surveys back,” she continues. “They loved the communication and the fact that I stayed in touch, that I explained the process thoroughly and understood my obligations that I had in the contract. Communication is by far No. 1.”
“There are a lot of people in our industry, but having designations really does set you apart from everybody else out there.”
– ELAINE GRAF, Senior Executive Associate and Broker Associate, First Weber REALTORS®
Beyond how you work with clients, Graf goes on to explain that a commitment to continuous education is also important for agents to succeed in an industry that’s constantly changing and evolving. “It’s super important for people to understand that we’re not just listing and selling homes. We’re here, and we’re servicing you in the best way that we can, being educated because we’re in an ever-changing industry,” says Graf.
Pursuing education early on in her career, Graf notes that the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation was one of the first credentials she received.
“There are a lot of people in our industry, but having designations really does set you apart from everybody else out there,” explains Graf. “It means that you’re invested in your career, you’re invested in the clients, and you’re invested in knowing the best of what’s happening in our industry.”
While Graf loves her work and the real estate industry as a whole, she acknowledges how hard it can be to get into a rhythm. “It’s fun, it’s exciting and it’s ever-changing. Every day is different, but you’re going to have different challenges,” she says.
“You have to be ready to work your business and always be available. You have to work hard,” concludes Graf. “The biggest thing in this industry is being able to show that you have the capabilities of being a good agent and watching out for people’s best interests.”
For more information about the ABR® designation, please visit https://abr.realtor.
