Real Estate Agent Magazine Publisher Judith Dickson sat with Liz Moretti of Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Gaetano Marra Homes to discuss being a young professional and goals for the future.
REAM: Why did you decide to follow a career in real estate?
LM: I noticed for years I would be looking at all the listings coming on the market and took a real interest in the world of real estate. I learned I had a passion for researching the real estate markets past and present. I am a true people person often times finding new friends in my clients that I am lucky enough to acquire. I also take enjoyment helping people find their perfect home which we all know is one of the biggest investments in life.
REAM: As a young professional, what is one of the challenges you face in the industry? How do you overcome them?
LM: I think the biggest challenge is setting yourself apart from the competition. There are a lot of agents in the state of Connecticut so you need to be able to communicate how you are different, what type of service you offer your clients and convey your personality through your marketing communications. I also believe in open communication and being accessible at all times. I want to make sure my clients understand they are not just a number to me or a commission check, I really care for them and want to give them concierge service at all times.
REAM: Who are your real estate mentors? How do you seek to emulate them?
LM: I would say my two brokers have been my biggest mentors. I have been lucky enough to work with some of the best brokers in the industry. I constantly check in with them and ask for their opinions. I value their constructive criticism and embrace whatever changes they may feel I need to tweak to help build up my own business.
REAM: What perspective does the younger generation bring to real estate? How can clients benefit?
LM: I think the biggest change between real estate agents who have been in the business for a long time vs some of the younger generation of realtors is adaptability. Consumer behaviors are constantly changing and how you communicate to those consumers constantly changes. What worked in the past doesn’t necessarily work in today’s market. The new generation of buyers want to be spoken too differently.
REAM: What career goals do you have for the next five years? The next 10? Where do you see the peak of your career?
LM: My goal is to become more focused in the markets I know best. I would love to be the #1 go to agent in my hometown of Monroe. I also want to focus on the surrounding towns of Trumbull, Newtown and Shelton. In the past I would sell anywhere but I feel to be a really good agent you need to know the ins and outs of the market you are selling.
REAM: Tell us about your first sale.
LM: My first sale was in my hometown of Monroe. It was a $440,000 colonial and I was on the buy side. It was a personal friend so I always tell him he broke me into this business! It was very exciting since I sold the home 1 month after I got my license back in 2016. I was lucky enough my first year to have a really good breakout year selling $4.2 million across 15 properties.
REAM: Are there any changes coming in the future that you’re excited to announce?
LM: A big change in 2021 was that I switched agencies, I have transitioned to Better Homes and Gardens Gaetano Marra homes here in my hometown of Monroe. I have also stepped up my marketing game. I created a new logo, got my own url and have been spending more money on my marketing. I am realizing quickly that to be successful in this business you have to spend money to make money, which is what I am committed to do going forward.
