Vitality and Verve
Earlier this year, we described Janet McAfee Real Estate Top Agent Katie Dooley Curran as a "Force Majeure." Katie is a force of nature. She radiates vitality and verve which she converts into action as she advocates for her clients. Her unbounded energy has again, propelled her to a Top Agent status with the firm.
We had the opportunity to sit down with Katie to discuss the "secrets" of her success both in real estate and her personal life. Her insights, observations and sense of humor reveal a great deal about her professionalism and her client appeal. You will quickly learn why Katie represents the next generation of Janet McAfee professionals.
How do you stay on top of your profession?
Even with all the technological advancements in real estate, I never lose sight of the fact that we are in the relationship business. I love helping my clients and I am always available to them. I also feel they appreciate my honesty. If a purchase or sale of a home is not in the client’s best interest, I never hesitate to tell them and the reason why. When I work with buyers, I actually share my list of obstacles to avoid. I find total honesty really creates significant levels of trust. I am always excited at the closing table knowing we optimized a client’s sales proceeds or, in the case of a buyer, that we successfully searched for and found the perfect home.
Today, the majority of my real estate practice is from clients referring their friends, family and co-workers to me. One client affectionately called me "Ms. Execution!" This is the best affirmation you can ask for.
I do leverage technology to stay in contact with clients using social media and my iPhone. And, my iPhone, iPad and the proliferation of Wi-Fi networks enable me to office anywhere, respond quickly and offer great customer service. Technology also allows me to keep abreast of activity, inventory and price levels for St. Louis Central Corridor housing.
I also make it a point to routinely touch base with other agents to discover homes they may have in the pipeline or MLS exempt. So much happens before a listing is published in MLS and you have to have a great network to give your client the inside track on great opportunities or know if additional competition is heading their way, when they have their home on the market.
What personally drives your success?
Like the flight attendant suggests, I always put on my oxygen mask first so I can take care of my family and clients. To maintain my high energy level, I start my day with a little bit of Katie time before the rest of my house wakes up and then one hour of a fitness regime. I am highly motivated and competitive. I live and breathe real estate every day, even on vacation. It seems everywhere I go; everyone talks about real estate which makes my job fun.
How do you manage your priorities?
I am task oriented. My calendar and daily to-do list reflect it. I prioritize it daily. Fortunately, all my planning and responsibilities are recorded digitally, so everything is always at my fingertips. Time management is my greatest asset. I always figure out how to squeeze a last minute showing request in my day. I never like to say no to a client and they appreciate it.
What do you do when you are not working?
I turn off the phone, unwind and do my best to be to fully engaged with the special people in my life. I enjoy dates with my cute husband, family gatherings, getting together with friends, travel and catching up with my family each evening on our veranda (my sanctuary). I am very blessed and continually try to pay it forward!
To learn more about Katie and to see her fine listings, visit
www.janetmcafee.com/katiedooleycurran.