I've often wondered how people in their 70s and 80s are still selling real estate. And I wonder if I could keep up and do it too when I turn 70 or 80?
Energizer Women
This petite 80 plus year old woman who had the heartiest laugh and the bawdiest sense of humor didn't let technology stop her. Although she was struggling with basic computer skills, she had someone work with her, and she kept right on working.
She held open houses, listed properties, took buyers around. She only stopped when she got sick. When she recovered and was strong enough, you guessed it: she went back to work!
Another lady is in now her mid-70s. She slowed down when her knees gave out. After she had her knees replaced, she also went back to work with a vengeance. Furthermore, she's still very active not only in selling real estate, but also in volunteering to serve on committees for our MLS Boards.
Both, when asked why they were still working, simply said "Because I want to, and because I can!"
A REALTOR doesn't stop learning and growing
When I first started as a Realtor, I found myself helping the more senior realtors on the basics of email, using programs such as Word and Publisher to make property flyers or open house signs, and Excel to set up an offer comparison work sheet. They struggled, but they took classes, and learned. They inspired me with their drive to keep on going.
Techonology continues to advance. Now we have smartphones, tablets, phablets that make it almost unnecessary to have a computer. We have Facetime, Docusign, webinars. There are all kinds of "apps" (applications) in real estate --- it's getting to be quite a challenge to keep up. But we do.
When we turn that corner and be in our 70s and 80s, what will it be like? And will we be inclined to continue selling real estate?
Fortunately, we are in a profession where we do not have to face mandatory retirement.
The oldest active REALTOR was how old?
One thing I am sure of, I won't and probably can't work as long as this man did. In 2009, he was recognized at 96 as the oldest active REALTOR Talk about longevity!
Comments(2)