Teacher-Turned-Real Estate Broker Kristin Braun Shares Her Home Buying Expertise
On this episode of The Closing Table, we sat down with Kristin Braun!
To watch the full episode, check it out on YouTube below. In the meantime, here’s a summary of the conversation…
Here’s what you missed from Kristin Braun…
Kristin’s professional journey began as an elementary school teacher, where she dedicated eight years to educating young minds, primarily in kindergarten, with some experience in second grade. However, over time, the demands of teaching began to take their toll, leading her to feel burnt out. This prompted Kristin to embark on a period of soul-searching, during which she explored new career possibilities.
In her quest for a fresh start, Kristin found herself drawn to fitness coaching, a field she pursued for six years. Her passion and dedication to the business grew to the point where she felt confident enough to leave teaching and focus solely on her coaching career. However, her interest in homes, design, and business continued to linger, making real estate an appealing next step.
Her transition into real estate was swift. She enrolled in an online course, passed the licensing exam, and began her real estate career the very next day.
Kristin’s background in education proved invaluable in her real estate career, particularly when working with first-time homebuyers. Her experience as a teacher equipped her with the skills to educate her clients thoroughly about the home-buying process, including upfront costs and other essential details. Kristin’s ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively has made her a trusted resource for her clients.
She often sets up “dream buyer” consultations, where she takes the time to understand her clients’ needs and preferences. These consultations allow her to guide them through the home-buying process, discussing everything from location preferences to must-have features in their new home.
Kristin’s commitment to educating her clients is a cornerstone of her real estate practice. She ensures they are well-informed about every aspect of the home-buying journey. This includes discussing the criteria for their ideal home, providing lender referrals, and offering credit repair advice when needed.
One of Kristin’s most memorable success stories involves a client who had been struggling to find a home for over a year and had faced difficulties with previous agents. Despite the challenges of low inventory and high house prices, Kristin’s determination and resourcefulness led her to a unique opportunity. She connected with neighbors who were selling a family member’s home, ultimately securing a successful purchase for her client.
Kristin cherishes the relationships she builds with her clients, many of whom become close friends. She often reflects on how much she enjoys meeting people from all walks of life and forming lasting friendships through her work in real estate.
Throughout her real estate career, Kristin has learned the importance of leveraging social media to reach potential clients organically. Her first listing, in fact, came through a connection on Facebook. She advises new agents to start small and put themselves out there. Kristin also emphasizes the importance of getting everything in writing, even when verbal agreements are legally permissible. She has learned to set and respect her boundaries, prioritize personal safety, and trust her instincts.
Next, Kristin is quick to dispel the glamorous image of real estate often portrayed on television. She highlights the hard work that goes on behind the scenes, from the long hours spent negotiating deals to the meticulous attention to detail required to meet clients’ needs.
Kristin navigates the evolving challenges of the real estate market, including new requirements for buyer agents to have signed agreements with clients before showing homes. While this requirement is new to Michigan, it has already been adopted in other states. Additionally, recent limitations on advertising compensation on MLS and third-party sites present logistical challenges for agents.
Kristin has set ambitious goals for the growth of her brokerage. She is focused on expanding the team slowly, ensuring that they bring on the right people. In just one year, her brokerage has grown from two to eight licensed agents. Community involvement is also a priority for Kristin. She aims to participate in at least two large community events annually. Recently, her brokerage hosted a free craft booth at a local arts festival and is planning a visit with Santa for the holiday season.
Following that, Kristin stresses the importance of consistent follow-up with potential clients. Staying top of mind through social media and regular communication is key to success in real estate. Additionally, she believes in providing individualized attention to agents based on their unique needs and growth areas.
Kristin values the flexibility her career offers, allowing her to be present for her family at all events and vacations. She looks forward to spending quality time with her loved ones, regardless of the activity.
Check out Kristin Braun:
https://home4salenow.com/kristin-fricke-braun
https://www.instagram.com/kristin_braun_realtor/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/mi_home_realty/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/kristin.l.fricke/
https://linktr.ee/movingwithkristin
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