ReSET Blog
Featured Members · January 25, 2022 · AUTHOR: Darwin Pelea

Member Spotlight: Irene Thammavong with EXP REALTY in Philadelphia, PA

Irene Thammavong

EXP REALTY

Experience: 22 years

Specializations: Residential Sales; Leasing; Investment Property; Estate Sales; Divorce; First Time Home Buyers

Areas Served: Philadelphia; Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County & Chester County

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Q: What made you interested in Real Estate?

A: A desire to guide, educate & advocate for my clients.

Q: What is the most interesting thing that happened during an open house you hosted?

A: Unlike many of my colleagues, I have significant concerns about open houses due to the lack of vetting and security of prospects coming through. I’d be happy to discuss this further and provide some insight into past experiences.

Q: What was your favorite moment in your career so far?

A: One of the most gratifying moments for me in my career was helping a single mother of four, who was also caring for her elderly mother, purchase her first home. All within 30 days of being given notice that the apartment building she was living in was being condemned and she was facing homeless & potentially having to move her family to a shelter.

Q: What do you wish you had known when you first got your real estate license?

A: The power to build long-term financial independence & passive income by acquiring at least one investment property per year.

Q: In what ways have you seen the real estate industry change since you started?

A: I’ve seen multiple changes in our local markets during my career! From property values remaining consistent without much movement for a decade to soaring property values, to record high & low-interest rates, to stated asset/income & no-doc loan products, to the current nationwide inventory shortage. Couple that with ever-evolving regulations & consumer protection legislation & it is clear that Real Estate is an ever-fluctuating & evolving industry.

Q: What’s the most challenging part of your job?

A: Currently it would have to be the inventory shortage. However, as a general rule of thumb, effectively negotiating (not arguing) remains one of the most challenging parts of the process. Knowing how to properly & patiently represent and advocate for your client is a valuable talent.

Q: If you could sum up being a real estate agent in five words or less, what would you say?

A: Competency and integrity are everything.

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