Real Estate Agent Magazine recently interviewed Margaret “Rita” Tsoukaris, who brings over three decades of real estate expertise in Long Island.
REAM: You started your real estate career in 1990 and quickly became a top producer at Century 21. What factors do you think contributed to your early success in the industry?
RT: My early success in the industry can be attributed to a combination of hard work, a strong commitment to client relationships, and continuous learning. I focused on understanding the local market, building a network, and leveraging the marketing resources available. Additionally, my ability to adapt quickly to changes in the market helped me stay ahead.
REAM: Your team ranked #1 for Long Island homes for sale for several years. What strategies or practices do you think contributed most to that success?
RT: The strategies that contributed to our #1 ranking for Long Island homes included comprehensive market analysis, exceptional customer service, and effective marketing campaigns. We prioritized communication with clients, utilized the latest technology and fostered a strong brand presence through community engagement and networking.
REAM: Can you tell us more about the Rita Tsoukaris Scholarship and what inspired you to create it?
RT: The Rita Tsoukaris Scholarship was created to support students pursuing higher education, and that gave back to the community and strived to make a difference. I wanted to give back to the community by empowering young individuals to achieve their academic goals.
REAM: During the holidays, your team supports local families with gifts and dinner baskets. How do you choose which families to help, and why is this initiative meaningful to you?
RT: When selecting families to help during the holidays, we collaborate with a local community organization who helps to identify those in need. This initiative is meaningful to me because it allows us to make a tangible difference in our community, and it reinforces the values of compassion and support that we strive to embody.
REAM: What new tools or strategies are you considering to enhance client service and lead generation?
RT: We are always exploring new systems and social media marketing strategies to enhance client service and lead generation. Utilizing data analytics to better understand client needs and preferences will also help us tailor our approach and improve overall satisfaction.
REAM: What advice would you give to someone looking to buy their first home?
RT: My advice for first-time homebuyers is to do thorough research, understand their financial situation, and not rush the process. It is important to work with a knowledgeable real estate agent and to ask plenty of questions to ensure they are making informed decisions.
REAM: What is the most common misconception people have about the real estate industry?
RT: One of the most common misconceptions about the real estate industry is that it is easy and that agents make a lot of money with minimal effort. It requires hard work, dedication, and ongoing education to navigate the complexities of the market effectively.
REAM: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role as a real estate agent?
RT: Some of the biggest challenges I face include fluctuating market conditions, managing client expectations, and staying updated on industry regulations. Balancing these demands while providing excellent service can be quite challenging but we love a challenge.
REAM: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work that help you unwind and recharge?
RT: Outside of work, I enjoy reading, and the most important to me is spending time with my family. Both help me unwind and recharge, allowing me to return to work with fresh energy and perspective.
REAM: Looking to the future, what are your goals for Team Rita and your new partnership with Realty Connect USA? What do you hope to achieve in the coming years?
RT: Looking ahead, my goals for Team Rita include expanding our market reach, enhancing our service offerings, and continuing to build a strong community presence. I hope to achieve greater collaboration within our team and further support our clients in their real estate journeys.
