We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alison Creamer a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alison, appreciate you joining us today. How do you think about spending on the little things / small joys when finances are tight?
During the initial stages of my career, when resources were tight, my focus was primarily on managing essential expenses such as bills and basic living costs. With limited financial resources, I adopted a hands-on approach, personally handling tasks like open houses and door knocking to establish a direct connection with potential clients. Time became a valuable commodity, and I prioritized efficiency by maximizing each moment for income-generating activities. While cold calling wasn’t my preferred method, it proved essential in reaching potential buyers and sellers, demanding resilience and the ability to turn rejections into valuable learning experiences. The challenges faced during these lean times were integral to shaping my skills and building the resilience necessary for future success. The key was to persevere and keep moving forward.
Alison, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Embarking on my journey into the Real Estate industry was fueled by a less-than-ideal encounter with a realtor. Dissatisfied with their lack of attention to my specific needs, I felt unheard as they presented homes that only partially met my criteria. The turning point occurred during the aftermath of 9/11 when I found myself in the administrative office of a local Real Estate firm. Tasked with processing commission checks for closing and disbursing payments to realtors, the gravity of the moment struck me. Contemplating the chaos unfolding globally, I realized my true worth to myself and my family. Reflecting on my experiences as a buyer, I was inspired to enter the real estate realm with the belief that I could provide a better, more successful experience for others. The seed of a new career was planted, rooted in a commitment to attentive service and a genuine understanding of clients’ unique needs.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Since April 2002, my approach to building a solid reputation in the market has been rooted in a commitment to being distinct. I found joy in connecting with people, fostering genuine friendships, and actively participating in the home buying journey. Recognizing the importance of upfront efforts in building trust, I prioritized the initial stages of client interaction. My vision extended beyond immediate gains, understanding that maintaining this value long after the sale would lay a robust foundation for my business. Rather than fixating on commission checks, my emphasis has always been on nurturing relationships, ensuring a lasting and positive impact within the real estate community.
We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.
Maintaining a strong connection with clients and cultivating brand loyalty hinges on staying attuned to humanity. I prioritize face-to-face interactions, utilizing platforms like Facebook and social media to stay informed about clients’ lives. Personalized touchpoints, such as sending note cards and thoughtful gifts for special occasions, contribute to building lasting relationships. Throughout the year, I host various events like painting parties, gardening sessions, or wine tastings to engage with clients on a more personal level. Our special calendar is dedicated to commemorating significant days in our clients’ lives. Recognizing and celebrating what matters most to them is a cornerstone of my approach. Ultimately, the essence lies in being authentically human and forging meaningful connections.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.SellHamptonRoadsHomes.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisoncreamerandco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlisonCreamerandCo/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlisonCreamerandCo
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/alison-creamer-exp-virginia-beach