For many people, having a job you truly enjoy is an ideal career goal. It can also be a truly rewarding experience when doing what you love can help other people. Our next guest, Michelle, shares with us why she loves being a luxury real estate Agent.
Please introduce yourself to our readers:
My name is Michelle Thomas. I work as a luxury real state agent in Naples and Marco Island, Florida. I have lived in the southwest Florida area for over 22 years, and I’ve worked in the real estate industry the entire time.
Can you tell us what company you work for?
I work for Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. I love the company because of the international luxury real estate tools, marketing and connections that they provide for their agents. I was with another large real estate network for 10 years before joining Sotheby’s, and I am amazed at how much better Sotheby’s is than all the rest.
What are the exact responsibilities of your job?
I help buyers in purchasing homes and condominiums in the Naples and Marco Island, Florida area. I also market and sell luxury home and condominium listings in beachfront, waterfront, golf course and resort communities in southwest Florida.
What is it about your job that makes you love it?
I absolutely love meeting new people every day, and helping them find their perfect dream home in Florida. I like solving the puzzle of matching up a person with a unique home and community, depending on their vision of their ultimate life in Naples or Marco Island. I also enjoy coming up with creative ways to market property listings to gain the attention of that one perfect buyer for that home or condo.
What particular skills or talents are most essential to completing your tasks?
Real estate requires high-energy, excellent communication skills (phone, email, text, etc.), a great attitude, hard work, experience with technology, and strong negotiation skills.
What level of education would you say is required to perform your role?
Most Realtors in our area do have a college degree, however, it is not required. It is very important to keep current with real estate trends; I improve my services by attending continuing education classes constantly, as the real estate business is ever-changing.
Do you find that you bring your work home with you? (And is that a good or bad thing?)
Yes, I definitely take my work home with me. I typically do try to answer calls and respond to emails nearly every waking hour, in order to offer amazing service and exceed the expectations of everyone who contacts me. I love my job and don’t really consider it a job, and love to offer outstanding service, so it’s a good thing in that way.
How does this job compare to other jobs you’ve held in the past?
I truly think that it is the best job ever. It is very challenging and fast paced, and I’m able to meet new people every day. No two days are ever the same. Each day may be spent doing computer work, paperwork, showing property, attending classes, making phone calls, responding to emails, and attending appointments. It is impossible to ever be bored, and I love that!
What is your favorite food?
Salmon!
Thanks for sharing Michelle! You can connect with Michelle on her LinkedIn.