CENTURY 21 Island Homes
How would you introduce yourself to a stranger?
I would say, “Hi, I’m Erin,” and then immediately ask about them. I’m much more interested in hearing the stories of others. People are very interesting!
What do you love most about your job?
For me, what I enjoy most about working in real estate is that every day brings something new to learn. With technology constantly evolving and the industry going through different cycles, there are always new challenges to face and opportunities to grow. But what truly excites me is the chance to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether I’m helping someone find their dream home or guiding them through a complex transaction, I feel like I’m making a difference every day.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing your industry?
Affordability and inventory.
One of the most significant hurdles is affordability, which can change rapidly based on interest rates. When rates are high, it can be harder for people to qualify for mortgages, leading to a decrease in demand for homes. Economic uncertainty and instability can also lead to a drop in demand, as people become more cautious about making big purchases. Another major challenge is the supply and demand imbalance, which has led to a shortage of available housing in many markets, driving up prices and making it harder for people to find affordable homes.
What has been the biggest sacrifice you’ve made for your career?
One of the biggest sacrifices I’ve made for my career is time with my family. Balancing work and personal life can be challenging, especially when you’re striving to excel in your field. I’ve had to make tough choices and prioritize my career, knowing that it may have meant missing out on some important moments with my loved ones. But I also believe that by pursuing my professional goals, I’m setting an example for my family and creating a better future for all of us.
What has been the biggest reward?
So far, the most rewarding aspect of my career has been opening my brokerage and being able to mentor and develop other agents. My vision has always been to focus on quality over quantity and attract people with integrity and a high level of customer care. Seeing my team grow and succeed has been incredibly fulfilling, and I feel proud of the impact we’re making in our community.
What failure taught you the biggest lesson?
I don’t see failures as such; I see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Every experience, whether positive or negative, has taught me something valuable and helped me become a better version of myself.
What makes you feel like a boss?
It depends on the day, but there are a few things that make me feel like a boss. Sometimes, it’s overcoming a difficult challenge and achieving a positive outcome. Other times, it’s accomplishing a big goal or knowing that I’ve made a positive impact on someone’s life. And on those days when I just need an extra boost, putting on a great pair of heels can make all the difference!
What scares you about the future?
I do have some concerns about the rise of AI and technology and how it may impact human work. We’re seeing more and more automation in various industries, and I worry about people being replaced by machines.
However, I’m confident that there will always be a need for human agents in real estate. Buying or selling a home is a highly emotional process that requires empathy, advice, and negotiation skills. AI simply can’t replicate that human connection. As long as we continue to prioritize relationships and provide excellent customer service, I believe we’ll always have a place in this industry. AI is NOT capable of providing this guidance as we are in a relationship-driven business!