Congratulation to Ann Carter, our April Agent of the Month.
The Serious Side of Ann Carter
Her colleagues at Janet McAfee Real Estate will recall some of Ann Carter’s well-conceived and beautifully executed pranks or her laughter lighting up the office; but we think there is a serious side to Ann that guides her impressive real estate business and consistently makes her a Top Agent at the firm.
Okay, before we get serious, what was your best prank?
“So far,” she says, grinning like a Cheshire cat, “my best prank was on one of my favorites agents here at McAfee. We have a vacant building lot on a private lane which is also next to our parking lot. The owner placed a Port-A-Potty on it. Well, I put a McAfee “For Sale” sign with this agent’s name on it right next to the Port-A-Potty and then placed “Open House” signs across the front of the lot. The only thing I didn’t do was advertise it in the Ladue News. Everyone entering the parking lot (including customers of Sportsman’s next door) or driving down the lane saw this agent’s great new listing! For those that missed it, I took pictures and displayed them prominently on all company bulletin boards. She really took it well and thought it hilarious.”
Ann continues, “If you want more, ask me about Cathy Noll’s Peep-mobile.”
Seriously, how do you stay at the top of your profession?
“I think the short answer is hard work.” says Ann. “And, it’s a trait you see in all the Top Agents here. It’s a commitment, a personal investment we willingly make every day including evenings and weekends.
“The real answer is complex because first of all, it takes time to achieve success in this business. But, if you want to be a success, here are the real ‘secrets’ of my real estate business,” she says.
“Build and enhance your knowledge of the geographic market you serve. Know it intimately. Know the neighborhoods, the schools, the houses, the retail areas and recreational amenities. Speak with confidence.
“Pay attention to details. Whether on a listing call or working with a buyer, know what details matter and make sure your clients know. Learning what is important takes many transactions and years. I think it’s called experience. For me,” said Ann, “I strive to give each client unparalleled service with an easygoing approach.
“Network like crazy. That includes potential clients, resources to help clients and especially other agents.
“Be tenacious. Be an advocate for your clients and their best interests. Negotiate with facts not emotion and never, ever give up. Tenacity also means returning every phone call or email as quick as possible.
“Embrace technology. Learn multiple platforms including smart phones, tablets and laptops. You never know when you will need internet access or a client needs information.
“Finally, don’t be afraid to have fun. Make your work environment fun and engaging. Laugh with your clients, your fellow agents and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself.”
Wow, that was totally unexpected. Who are you and what have you done to our fun-loving Ann Carter? Dare we ask what personally drives your success?
“Well,” says Ann, “I think it’s because I come from a very loving and supportive family. My Dad was an entrepreneur and my siblings all followed in his footsteps. We celebrate our successes together yet try our best to out-do each other whenever we can. Family get-togethers are a full contact sport and we each play to win. The rules are simple. It’s not a foul unless you have to go to the emergency room.”
Okay, seriously, on a personal basis, how do you manage your priorities?
“It’s really simple,” says Ann. “Client needs always come first. Next, administrative duties on behalf of clients, then comes lead generation and finally, FUN. Everyone hates lead generation but I make it fun. That’s because over 90% of my business comes from client referrals. My clients make this business enjoyable, they are all great people!!”
So, what do you do when you are not working?
“Easy,” says Ann. “I escape to Wyoming to see family, play golf when I can and recharge my batteries. I am fortunate to have a job I love. If you want to be successful, it does take hard work and dedication. I am a true believer in luck. I find the harder I work, the luckier I get!”
To learn more about the serious side of Ann Carter, or see her fine listings, simply go to www.janetmcafee.com/anncarter.