While Emily Oliver has only been a Janet McAfee associate for one year, she brings a wealth of experience from her previous positions in human resources and finance. We caught up with the St. Louis native to discuss her lifelong passion for real estate and her experiences at Janet McAfee.
How did you become interested in Real Estate?
“I’ve been interested in real estate for a long time; it started off as hobby through several of my own real estate transactions. My grandfather was actually a broker and represented me on many of these, always being very patient in answering my many questions. I was very impressed by his professionalism, assertiveness and his outstanding attention to detail. This resonated with me from the very beginning. He always put me first, he didn’t miss a beat and I was able to trust him completely. I knew that this was what I would want my clients to feel if I ever decided to pursue this as a career.
About a year and a half ago, I reevaluated some of my personal long term goals that had been on the back burner for some time. This process led me to resign from my position at my family business and take the leap of faith that I knew was necessary for me to achieve these goals.”
What was the family business?
“My father owned a large car dealership with over forty employees. I handled all HR needs as well as bookkeeping for eight years.”
Do you think that managing such a large group has given you an insight into the working of an agency?
“Yes. Being able to manage several responsibilities, learning how to prioritize and being self-motivated have made my transition into real estate very smooth.”
Has there been a moment at Janet McAfee that made you feel that you were born to do this?
“It is one thing to enjoy what you do but it is another to hear that your clients are happy with the service you provide. Each time I hear that my clients are pleased or just hearing a simple thank you, I know that I am on the right path. Recently, I had a referral to a sibling of a past client and I was really moved. Having a client refer me to someone that they care about tells me that I am serving people well and that is my objective.”
Being part of a family is very important to you. Are you drawn to clients who seek similar intimacy?
“Being a mother, I’m drawn to clients with the same sentiments. I know that a house doesn’t make a home, however finding a place where they can grow as a family is fulfilling. A house is the primary place that life happens and memories are made. It has a lot of importance.”
Is there a particular St. Louis community that you love?
“I live in Webster Groves. It is a very tight-knit community, filled with people walking with their kids and dogs, neighbors whom actually know and help each other. It is a special place.
Although, I must say that we are fortunate in St. Louis to have so many wonderful communities to choose from.”
Visiting other communities, what draws you to other communities and St. Louis and what do you think that they have to offer?
“I’ve experienced many parts of St. Louis, I’ve lived in the city as well. Each community is unique in so many ways but you can see the similarities of St. Louis as a whole. Beautiful parks, sporting events, The St. Louis Zoo just to name a few.”
Why do you think that someone should choose Janet McAfee? Representing McAfee, do you feel that you’re representing the family as a whole?
“Yes, absolutely. I liken it to a tree, a backbone or a foundation. Having multiple people to support you and to bounce ideas off of is very helpful. Sometimes you just need to gain a fresh perspective.”