Women Who Thrive In Real Estate | Anna Depalma
An Interview With Real Estate Broker Anna Depalma of Keller Williams
Hi Anna! Tell us your story! Why did you decide to become a Realtor and subsequently a Broker? What made you want to get into the real estate industry?
Real Estate wasn't the obvious choice for me originally but my mom was an Interior Decorator and we moved about 5 times growing up so I became very passionate about homes. In addition to loving homes, I also knew I loved people, I loved talking to and meeting new people, the idea of being able to help them through big milestones in their life, and ultimately I wanted to be their trusted source. I got my Broker license as I was becoming more passionate about the Real Estate industry and I love to push myself and constantly learn new things. I got my Broker license as a way to sharpen my skills and to continue to provide the best service for my clients.
Who has been your greatest role model or the greatest influence on you within the Real Estate Industry?
I think my mom had a huge part of me getting into Real Estate, probably more than I even think. Because of her background in design, it really helped me when I got into the industry to understand homes from the design aspect, the best renos/upgrades that best impact for resale value, and ultimately understanding quality work. This helped give me confidence when I first got my license to give me an edge when I was with clients.
Do you believe there are any advantages to being a women in the real estate industry?
Absolutely! Buying and selling homes can be extremely emotional and I think women can really provide that emotional support for people.
What has been the biggest challenge for you within your career and how have you overcome it?
The biggest challenges for me personally was getting into the business at 24 years old, and having to constantly prove myself at the beginning. I think sometimes women have to constantly work that much harder to show they know what they are doing and be taken seriously.
How do you keep emotions in check and overcome the highs and lows that are inevitable within this business?
This one is still something I struggle with! I can be an extremely emotional person, I care so much about my clients and I get invested in the outcomes of transactions. Especially now with home buyers, you can be working with them for months before they ever get into a home so when you spend so much time together, for me it's easy to get emotionally attached because we're working extremely hard to get them a home.
This industry can keep you busy all day - every day, how do you find such a great balance between work-life and personal-life?
Having a good support system at home is super critical to your success! Some days are going to be busier than others and for me, I think the best way to keep yourself on track with a good balance is schedule things in to make sure you remember to have time to yourself, or have a date night or get in a workout; whatever that looks like for you but just making sure you're setting time for yourself as well!
Choosing a brokerage and surrounding yourself with the right team is so imperative in this industry, how did you decide that Keller Williams was the best choice for you?
Aligning yourself up with a brokerage who has similar values as you is imperative to your success. I chose Keller Williams because they are hands-on involved with all their agents, they have the best training I've ever seen, there is someone always there to call if you have a question. This business can be extremely lonely so having the right support around you is super important!
What would you say is your #1 tip for others to start thriving in their careers?
This business can be extremely tough, and no matter how talented you may be that doesn't guarantee anyone success, talent is only the first step. Nothing will get handed to you, you have to constantly work every day at your business to get better and just when you think you've got it, we need to adapt/pivot all over again! Learn to be okay with adapting and putting in the work, everyday.
What has contributed to your success in this business so far?
A couple things, investing in myself! No one is going to invest in me as their Realtor if I don't invest in myself, hiring my first real estate coach has really helped take my business to the next level. Also, staying true to who you are, people constantly tell me they feel understood by me, that I'm genuine and authentic and I think that has really helped me in this business.
Touché!
You have a fantastic social media presence online! What advice would you give to other Realtors who find it difficult to put themselves in front of the camera for business and branding purposes?
I used to be extremely nervous to record myself and put it on video but it honestly gets easier the more you do it and you will become more comfortable with it. We are our biggest critics and always make it worse in our heads, putting yourself out there on social media is the easiest way to become an authority in your local area!
What’s one thing you wish you could go back and tell yourself on day one as a licensed Realtor?
Put in the work, stay consistent and it will all work out if you keep pushing through!
What advice would you give to empower other women within their real estate careers?
You are capable of so much and never let anyone tell you otherwise! This business can be so rewarding but also has it's lows. You need to be willing to consistently put the work in especially when you're feeling down about not doing enough, that's when you need to work even harder and not give up!
What is the secret to success?
The secret to success is being authentic and consistent in every single thing you do, give it your all.
Such fantastic advice and words of wisdom here! Thank you so much for sharing your story with us Anna!