I wanted to be Nancy Drew, a detective, and I found out it was actually real estate. My motto in real estate is, “Always look ahead,” as I think great skill be able to predict the results, whether in a bidding war or the best way to position and price a property for the desired market effect.

I am most drawn to the dynamic nature of real estate, so finding clues, nuances, and pointers is fascinating to me. I’ve been told I’m “thoughtful” but I think real estate requires a “what could happen next” approach. I would really enjoy being a detective and cracking a big case.

What would you tell a new agent before they start their business?

Always look at the big picture, keep your deals together, don’t let your ego get in the way and ask for help of fellow agents. Always be the expert to the client and realize that this is the kind of career where even if you think you know it all, you never really do.

You have to have passion and openness to sustain learning. The most successful agents they are open to new experiences, new types of clients, new challenges and new solutions.

What does a client need to know before starting a real estate transaction?

Your relationship with your agent is an integral part of how you define and achieve success in your transaction. Mutual investment creates a connection that enables accurate decision-making at every critical moment in the buying or selling process.

Speaking of experience, it is compelling and empowering as an agent to achieve that kind relationship with the client where you work hand in hand. I believe the most successful sales happen when the seller or buyer feels the same empowerment back of their agent.

Clients should also expect a holistic approach to their purchase or sale, ensuring that neither they nor their agent compartmentalises the necessary services. Every home needs staging, strategic thinking and a high level of marketing, regardless of price or market conditions.

Focus on the quality of your selling or buying experience and that will give you the best ROI.

What should everyone do to improve their life and business?

Learn to be vulnerable. Success can wrap you in armor and expectations can push you down the road most traveled and most meaningful.

Leonard Cohen wrote, “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in…” That crack is vulnerability.

We work and live in an imperfect world, and letting that light in helps us be more human, more relatable, more helpful, less egotistical… and sometimes funnier. This will make you better at your craft.

I recently made a huge career move when I joined the Compass Group, and I can say that my most meaningful and successful moments with coworkers and clients have been when I allowed myself to be vulnerable.

What was your most memorable transaction?

My most memorable transaction of the year just happened. I am working with a young couple who are moving of Boston and found their wish list for a home to be special and wonderfully unique. I was actually scared of their joy in finding homes, theirs amazing attitude and their trust in me.

We won an intense bidding war for one of the most magical homes on the East Side of Providence called “The Lightning Splitter”. The whole experience reinvigorated me and reminded me why I approach my business the way I do. You need to be dialed in with your clients because that is what supports your ability to deliver. It’s like real estate kryptonite.

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