Have I mentioned that I love what I do??  I get to talk to people about Real Estate, and help them make decisions that will shape their future.  I speak with people about what it takes to be a successful Realtor (not just an agent), and help those who decide they want a career in Real Estate get up and running quickly!

I also have the privilege of speaking with the Cream of the Crop Real Estate Agents in Orange County! 

I interviewed one such Realtor recently, and this is what she had to say!  

Me:How long have you been a Realtor?

Sandy De Angelis:  I was licensed in 1984. 

M: What made you decide to be a Realtor? 

SDA: I discovered Real Estate is the basic economic driver of Southern California.  

M: How did you discover that?

SDA: I have worked in many different areas nationwide.  As a VP of a bank, a marketing advisor, in direct sales, and ran a show room in Manhattan.  In the process of this I bought and sold 13 homes.  I always felt I could do better than the agent that was representing me. 

 M: What, in your opinion, has made you a successful Realtor?

 SDA: I implemented all the things that I wanted in a Realtor and became the agent that I wish I had in my personal transactions.  I work to be the Realtor that I always wanted, but rarely had. 

 M: What do you think has attributed to your success as a Realtor?

 SDA: My background in finance and selling to high level buyers around the country has helped me, PLUS, the love of Real Estate itself.  The uniqueness of architecture, and a desire to be of service.  To treat people the way I want to be treated. 

 M: What type of marketing did you do to get yourself up and running in the beginning?

 SDA: I really didn't do ANY marketing of myself!  I just stayed in touch with people.  I became a resource to everyone!  Half of my database is of resources for my clients.  Roofers, remodeling, repairs, painters who have had a successful relationship with my clients.  I keep them in my database, and then whatever my clients need, I'm the person they call.  If I can't help them, I tell them the TRUTH!  If I tell them the truth, they'll call again!  You really want to be THAT... a Resource!

 M:  How do you see your career as a Realtor?

 SDA:  I see my job as a Real Estate Agent and a member of the Board of Realtors as bringing Real Estate to a new level and dispelling the myth of the "Wheel and Deal" agent.  It is amazing to me that people aren't awed by the fact that this is one of the biggest investments a person will make.  I move forward, in fear and trembling, to handle myself professionally, and treat  my clients professionally as well. 

M: How has this affected your relationship with people in general?

 SDA: I honor the people that I meet and work with, regardless of their station in life!

 M: What do find to be the least appealing aspect of your career?

 SDA: The details are DAUNTING!  The paperwork itself is daunting!  This is why I have chosen to work with a Transaction Coordinator and exceptional Associate/Assistant, Susan Anthony, who I refer to as my brain!  She has a wonderful memory and is caring, attentive, and pays attention to detail that compliments my finesse and expertise.

 M: Who would you recommend a career in Real Estate to?

 SDA:  I'll tell you who I would NEVER recommend a career in Real Estate to...anyone looking to make a quick buck, looking only for a commission check, or to get rich quick!  My husband laughs at me because I never know how much I make!  For the last 4 years, he has taken care of that!  I never calculate my commission check before receiving it!  I feel if I do that, I'm treating a client purchasing a 300,000 home, differently than a client purchasing a million dollar home!  That is never my intent!  I pride myself in treating each of my clients with the respect they deserve, whether they choose to work with me or not!

 M: Where does your business come from these days??

 SDA: I would say that 45% to 65% of my business is referrals and past clients. 

 M: What changes have you made recently?

 SDA: I have recently started blogging as a form of marketing myself and to broaden my base.  I love technology!  I'm always anxious to see what's next!  What can I do next?  I love to see the trends of the future and patterns of the past!

 M: How do feel about "this market" overall?

 SDA:  I am EXCITED about this market!  Now's the time where buyers can actually afford to buy properties they could never have afforded before!  It's been years since we have seen this!  First time homebuyers are one of my favorite clients to work with.  There is nothing like the pride of ownership of a first time buyer.  They are concerned, and curious, and trusting.  It annoys me that people, in the name of friendship and family, take advantage of them, in order to make money! 

 M: Sandy, what is your philosophy on life??

 SDA:  I live in the philosophy of abundance!  There is enough money, time and clients for everyone to make a good living!  I treat all of my clients with respect, and I find that the more I give, the more I get back...almost unintentionally!

 Sandy is an agent with Seven Gables Real Estate and has worked with them since 1996. She works extensively in the Floral Park area, and is an active participant of the annual Floral Park Home Tour.  Be sure to visit her website at www.historichomes.com ORread her blogs at www.historichomesblog.com