Real Estate Agent Magazine Phoenix sat down with real estate agent Kathaleen Patterson of Realty One Group to discuss her career and the transition she made from IT to real estate as well as her plans for the future.
REAM: What first drew you to the real estate industry?
PATTERSON: As the Director of Information Technology, I was tired of the frustrations of the corporate environment. My expertise was working with finance, legal and HR departments, handling contracts in addition to building processes to make the everyday users life easier.
After more than 25 years working in information, technology the skills from that career translated nicely to the real estate industry.
As a project management expert, I knew I had the drive, ambition and the skillset necessary to make the career change to an industry I enjoyed. I relish the fact that I no longer have to jump through the red tape and corporate restrictions to help someone when they come to me with a challenge. I take charge and take care of my clients.
REAM: Who are your real estate mentors? How do you seek to emulate them?
PATTERSON: Managing Broker Kathy Laswick is my greatest mentor. She and I have very similar personalities and values; we’re process driven, honest, caring and no drama. We believe in fast follow up, and accurate information. I appreciate her straightforward approach.
REAM: What is your biggest challenge as a real estate agent? How do you overcome those challenges?
PATTERSON: Connecting with clients and letting them know about everything I have to offer them as a real estate agent! Everything is about relationships, no matter who you are working with. If there isn’t a positive connection, a trust, then you have nothing. When you do, you can overcome anything. My goal is to make sure I know my client’s communication style up front whether it be phone, text or email. My clients love my flexibility and it makes for a more enjoyable transaction.
REAM: What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day job?
PATTERSON: Meeting new people, building those connections, helping others buy or sell a home and to be better educated in the process.
REAM: What career goals do you have for the next five years? The next 10?
PATTERSON: In five years, I hope to exceed the income I made as a corporate director. In 10 years, I hope to build my own team and add to my personal property to help create the passive income to support my retirement goals. I am excited for the growth in all areas!
