The uncertain economy coupled with losses incurred by many people in securities held for growth or retirement has impacted many of us in the real estate community.  I notice that many long time agents with status quo real estate firms have had their worst year – although they will most likely not admit to it.   Many agents have left the industry or have gone to a “referral status,” meaning they are unwilling to pay the real estate board membership fees.

Yet, many of our agents have had a record year.  Sue Chaskes in Buffalo is constantly selling homes.  She just sold 125 Crestwood Lane for $275,000, 2 Brompton Woods for $350,000, a lot for building, two homes that were refurbished by investors who bought distressed properties, a condo, and many more. She just listed a home for over $400,000 that just expired from a listing with another broker.  Her phone rings all the time and she is showing homes almost daily.  She is working awfully hard and getting results. 

Barb Murie has had an incredible year mostly in the southtowns region of Buffalo.  Take a look at some of her sales on our website at keepequity.com.  She will be our top producing agent – millions of dollars of sales.  Her phone rings constantly and I see her react quickly when sellers and buyers call.  I have had other agents ask how she does it.

Both Linda Lehtonen and Alyssa Hedges have been awarded the coveted Master Sales designation from the Greater Rochester Association of Realtors.  They will be honored at a ceremony in November.  The award is given to realtors reaching over $5,000,000 in sales.  Take a look at their production on our website or pick up a copy of Your New Home Magazine in Wegmans.  Susan Payne in Rochester has had her best year.  She is diligent, responsive and knowledgeable.

So what is it? Why are these agents prospering?  Well, I see a few common factors.  First, these agents are all good at what they do.  They are true hard working people. They have made a true commitment to making real estate part of their lifestyle.  It is okay for them to show homes all weekend, nights, and to take calls at all hours.  Each of them is strong and willing to take on the pressure from other agents who do not want to see real estate commissions fall from 6% or 7%.  Simply put, they are not going to make friends in the status quo real estate community. It is not status from other realtors that drives these agents. Rather, they are selling more real estate, making more money, and keeping busy notwithstanding the economy. 

So, they have to be good at what they do. 

Another common factor is that these agents are not greedy.  They are willing to work hard for America’s Choice customers by entering into a unique listing agreement.  This means that our agents are willing to take the listing, enter the information into the MLS, take the phone calls and emails, work with buyers,  negotiate and draw up contracts all for 1% of the sales price.  They have to work these listings, but since the seller is willing to do the showings and appearances, there is a lesser driving and time commitment.  Other agents are unwilling to offer such services. 

Again, our agents have to be good.