Brenda MejiaExperience: 2 years Specializations: First-time buyers, investors, downsizing, newcomers to the DC metro area Areas Served: Washington DC and Maryland Q: What made you become interested in real estate? A: I bought an investment property a few years ago, and really enjoyed learning about the real estate business from that angle. I then had an amazing opportunity to make a major career change, so I jumped in and got licensed in DC and Maryland. I plan to obtain my Virginia license soon. Q: What is the most interesting thing that happened during an open house you hosted? A: The sellers had no less than a dozen musical clocks, all set to different times, so there was a constant stream of music throughout the house. I had to make a real effort to hear and be heard over the all the noise, but it made for an interesting conversation topic with buyers! Another example was when there was no prior indication that the house had a burglar alarm, but it did, and the alarm was armed. It started beeping as soon as I opened the door, and the full alarm went off while I was trying to get the code from the listing agent. The police came, and were fortunately very understanding and helpful until I could shut it off. Q: What was your favorite moment in your career so far? A: When I made my first sale. It wasn't a huge transaction, but it gave me the sense that I can do this, and do it well. Nothing makes me happier than seeing a client find a new home that they love! Q: What do you wish you had known when you first got your real estate license? A: That it takes a significant amount of time and effort to establish a solid client base. Also, the amount of responsibility that we take on was a bit of a surprise. Q: In what ways have you seen the real estate industry change since you started? A: Technology is changing the way we do business, and I think that will only be amplified in the future. New tools and processes are definitely helpful to both agents and our clients. Now that information is so much more accessible, the agent's role is being redefined. Also, the typical purchase contract for a residential sale is now around 60 pages long. I think when I bought my first house in the mid-90s, it was maybe 20 pages. This makes our role as agents even more crucial, as there are now so many legal implications. Q: What’s the most challenging part of your job? A: Many people think they don’t need a realtor, or just don't want to talk to us. I think we get a bad rap, so part of my focus is to change any negative impressions people have of realtors. I work hard to make sure that there is mutual trust and agreement between my clients and me, and am always asking for feedback, both good and bad. Q: If you could sum up being a real estate agent in five words or less, what would you say? A: It's harder than you think!
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