What did you do before real estate and how did you get started in the business?
As a young teen, my parents were heavily involved in the movement to abolish rent control from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. I cut my real estate teeth by stuffing envelopes, holding political signs, and attending rallies. My mother chaired the Massachusetts Homeowners Coalition, the official PAC that resulted in the successful overturn of rent control in 1994. Immediately following my college graduation, I began working at a commercial real estate office in the financial district. I was on the 37th floor with commanding views of the Boston skyline. After 9/11, I no longer wanted to be in an office building downtown. I also realized that I am not a 9-5, Monday through Friday type of person. I answered an ad for a real estate agent, took the test and never looked back.
What is something your clients find comfort in that makes them turn to you and the Home Advantage Team for their real estate needs?
I just got the compliment that I am the most un-sales sales person ever! My clients appreciate the fact that I don't push them to buy something that isnt right for them just to make the sale. I listen carefully to what they want and make sure, to the extent possible, that the "fit" is right. My clients' satisfaction and long-term happiness are my priorities. I nurture my relationships and build "clients for life."
What are some of your favorite local activities you participate in?
My parents instilled in my brother and me, that we have a responsibilityan absolute duty to give back to our community. In fact, over the holidays, my family spearheaded the Fridge in the Square project in Harvard Square. The premise is that anyone can go to the fridge to take what they need and leave what they can. At this time, food insecurity is such a big issue for so many people who are out of work and in need. For those of us fortunate enough to give back, this is an important and timely way to serve our community. You can learn how to help at www.harvardsquare.com/harvard-squares-fridge-in-the-square.
What do you love most about where you live and work?
I basically live on Mass. Ave. in North Cambridge and work on Mass. Ave. in Arlington. I love not having a horrible commute and am so grateful for that every day!
What are three sources of joy in your week?
- My daughter Charlotte, who turned 1 in November is my biggest source of joy every day of the week! She is fun, inquisitive, strong-minded and simply a blessing.
- Getting to do a job that I love and working with such an impressive, hard-working and dedicated team of professionals, who I am privileged to call my friends, is also a great joy.
- The place I call homefor countless reasons: my family is close by, I am within a short walking distance to Davis, Porter and Harvard Squares, with so many delicious restaurants, funky shops, all kinds of services and cultural activities for the taking. Cambridge is small in size, but big in amenities. The list just goes on and on!
