554 viewsDid you know that over 60% of real estate professionals are of women? Their success in the industry has been no small feat, with many inspiring trailblazers overcoming obstacles and paving the way for future generations in the formerly male-dominated field.
In honor of Women's History Month, we asked some of our top Brown Harris Stevens Hamptons Agents about their reflections on the industry, tips for success, and more.
Andrea Ackerman
What advice do you have for women looking to begin a successful career in Real Estate?
Experience is the best teacher. Get with someone who is patient, generous, and willing to provide you with valuable guidance. But I truly believe that you can learn the law, social media, and be internet savvy and read every book on real estate.
But the aspect of connecting with, and reading the client is a gift. It’s just the way about you. You either have it or you don’t.
Aubri Peele
What women in your life do you look up to? Have you learned anything from this/these women that positively impacts your daily life and practices?
My Grandmother always said, “Use your time wisely, Aubs.” I don’t think I can sit down for a single minute without hearing her say this in my head. It keeps me going.
This woman raised 4 children on her own. She went from selling encyclopedias on the street to building an empire in real estate. Her secret was, "never stop." She never gave up. I will never give up.
Roxanne Briggs
Approximately 65% of Realtors are women. Why do you think this profession attracts so many women? Have you found fewer obstacles or challenges as a woman in real estate as compared to other experiences you've had?
I think working for yourself under the umbrella of a great company like BHS or another real estate agency gives you the flexibility to prioritize other parts of your life as needed. You can set your own hours and don't necessarily have to be chained to a desk all day, so it's especially enticing for mothers. I can't say there are fewer obstacles or challenges here than anywhere else, because every industry is so different, but I can say that it's been very rewarding to be in charge of your own success.
Cynthia Barrett
What challenges have you faced in the Real Estate industry, and how have you overcome them?
Challenges are ongoing in the real estate world, where cycles are full of peaks and valleys.
Consistency, determination, a positive attitude, and the drive to continue forging forward are crucial in this business.
Cristina Matos
What is your favorite aspect of being a woman in the Real Estate Industry?
The ability to be myself entirely. I have a a passion for what I do, and I am wildly proud of the service I provide to help others. I love meeting new people every day. I love being at that closing table after overcoming any and all challenges in the deal.
Jane Babcook
What inspired you to begin a career in Real Estate?
I was in the Equestrian Show Jumping business and used to be on the road A LOT. I had my daughter in 1993 and could no longer travel with the horses so staying at home training with a young child did not generate the same income. A friend of mine who owned a real estate company thought real estate would make a perfect fit.
They were right. I got my license in 1998 and soon enough it took over my other job and became a full-time gig which is how it is if you want to make it.
Gayle Osman Lopata
How has the role of women in real estate changed, in your opinion?
The industry is always changing, and there are more opportunities for both men and women in different areas of this field. In the past, women often pursued real estate as a hobby, but they soon realized it could allow them to support both themselves and their families financially.
Lauren Battista
What advice do you have for those starting a career in real estate?
Be patient. It's going to take some time to adjust. It's important to go to open houses and learn the inventory. There are many other areas an agent should be familiar with, like local building and zoning rules, securing mortgages, etc. Make sure you have the bandwidth in your life to be available. If not, you may want to consider partnering with an agent or joining a team.
Mary Ellen Mcguire
What is your favorite aspect of working in real estate?
I love meeting new people and guiding them in the market to find their perfect home. I truly love where I live and how I live. I create my own schedule and begin almost every day at the beach enjoying the sand, surf, rising sun, and yes, even the seagulls! I feel very fortunate to live and work here in The Hamptons.
