Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Marina Shikman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Marina, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today In our experience, overnight success is usually the result of years of hard work laying the foundation for success, but unfortunately, it’s exactly this part of the story that most of the media ignores. So, we’d appreciate if you could open up about your growth story and the nitty, gritty details that went into scaling up.
When I started in real estate, I was completely new to this country. I didn’t have friends, family, or any connections. I began with open houses, trying to meet people and learn as much as I could. I started by attending every training I could find, with TriplePlay as my first big conference. Later, I added Sell-a-bration and Star Power conferences to my calendar — both are incredible sources of learning and inspiration.
One experience that really changed me was losing a client because I didn’t follow up. She sold her house with someone else, and when I found out, it really hurt. I realized I hadn’t reached out for six months. That was my wake-up call. Since then, I’ve made communication a top priority — staying in touch on social media, sending notes, or just stopping by to say hello. Every fall, I deliver mums to my clients. It’s a small gesture, but people always remember it.
I have also become very involved in my communities. I organize two community garage sales each year in one neighborhood, and I host block parties in the community where I live. I’m also actively involved on boards and committees within my HOA, as well as on local and state Realtor® committees focused on professional standards and convention planning. Over time, I discovered a real passion for helping clients in 55+ communities — supporting them through downsizing, relocation, or lifestyle changes with patience and care. My growth didn’t happen overnight. It came from showing up, learning from mistakes, and treating people not just as clients, but as neighbors and friends.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Marina Shikman, and I am a Realtor® with Coldwell Banker Realty in New Jersey. I am a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and have earned several advanced real estate designations that reflect my commitment to professional excellence and lifelong learning.
I help people through one of life’s biggest transitions — buying or selling a home — and I focus on making the process smooth, well-organized, and truly personal. Before real estate, I was a teacher, and that experience still shapes my approach. I love guiding clients step-by-step, explaining each stage so they feel confident and supported.
I live in New Jersey with my husband, and my son proudly serves in the U.S. Air Force. My parents live nearby, which makes this area truly feel like home.
Creativity is a big part of my work. I design all my own marketing materials and enjoy using AI tools to make my listings stand out — from creating custom songs and videos for homes to producing fresh, engaging marketing content. I also stay active in my community, often participating in local events and performing in neighborhood shows that bring people together.
Real estate doesn’t have to feel cold or stressful; it can be personal, inspiring, and even joyful. What makes me most proud is that many of my clients become friends. That, to me, is the real measure of success.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
The best source of new clients for me has always been my past clients — the ones who come back years later or refer their friends and family. There’s nothing more meaningful than hearing from someone I helped long ago who says, “We’re ready for our next chapter, and we want you to be part of it again.”
I also value referrals from agents across the country. Over the years, I have built wonderful relationships through conferences and professional networks such as Sell-a-bration, Star Power, and TriplePlay. Many of those agents now send their relocating clients to me, trusting that I’ll take great care of them.
That mutual trust — with both clients and colleagues — means a lot to me. It reminds me that real estate is not just about homes; it’s about relationships built on respect, consistency, and genuine care.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
Early in my career, I believed that being friendly and providing good service at the start was enough. Then I lost a client simply because I didn’t follow up — and it truly hurt. She sold her home with another agent, and that moment became my turning point.
I realized that real estate isn’t just about making a great first impression — it’s about staying connected. Since then, I have made communication a top priority. I reach out regularly, stay visible on social media, deliver mums to clients each fall, and help host community events that bring people together.
That experience taught me that strong relationships are built through care and consistency — not just during a transaction, but long after the closing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.MarinaForReal.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shikmanrealtor
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCP0PY4jV0ZYLoRXHbt9PJIw
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/marina-shikman-coldwell-banker-realty-princeton-junction?osq=Marina+Shikman+-+Coldwell+Banker+Realty&dd_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2F
