We recently connected with Erica Garvin and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica , thanks for joining us today. Any thoughts around creating more inclusive workplaces?

In my journey as a real estate agent, I’ve encountered a significant gap in opportunities for African Americans in the real estate market, stemming from historical issues like redlining and steering. These systemic barriers set in place to prevent people of color from accessing financing to purchase a home have perpetuated a cycle of inequality, making it even more crucial to address these issues within the real estate industry. These discriminatory practices not only limited the pool of potential African American homebuyers but also created a scarcity of black real estate agents. It became evident to me, especially while working in Oklahoma, that I wanted to play a role in bridging the socioeconomic divide among homeowners. Recognizing the importance of diversity and representation in the industry, I embarked on a mission to showcase that individuals with deep melanated skin and 4c hair, like myself, can thrive and succeed in real estate. By actively engaging in the field, I aimed to break the mold and demonstrate that diversity not only fosters inclusivity but also brings valuable perspectives to the real estate landscape. My commitment to creating a more inclusive workplace extends beyond personal success; it’s about paving the way for others who may not have seen themselves represented in the industry before.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

As a graduate of the esteemed Booker T Washington High School and the top of my class at Northeastern State University, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Organismic Biology, my professional journey has been a dynamic fusion of healthcare and technology. After gaining valuable experience as a clinical director assistant in healthcare, where I honed my skills in creating exceptional patient experiences, I embarked on a career shift into real estate at the onset of the pandemic. Drawing upon the foundational knowledge of construction instilled in me by my parents, who guided the construction of our childhood home from the ground up, I built my real estate business on a solid foundation of data and technology.

At the helm of the Ivy Key Team, I am committed to providing a unique, first-class experience tailored to each client, whether they are buying or selling a home. Our approach goes beyond traditional real estate services; we have cultivated strategic partnerships to offer a diverse range of services. Catering to a clientele that predominantly consists of first-time homebuyers and investors, we take pride in conducting workshops that empower individuals to build generational wealth and educate them on navigating the home purchase process at any stage of life. What sets us apart is our dedication to combining expertise in real estate with a passion for technology, creating a seamless and personalized experience for our clients. I am most proud of our ability to not only facilitate real estate transactions but also to contribute to the empowerment and financial well-being of those we serve. With the Ivy Key Team, it’s not just about buying or selling a home; it’s about building a legacy and fostering a community where everyone can achieve their homeownership dreams.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Embarking on my journey in real estate, despite being raised by entrepreneurial parents, was a daunting and intimidating experience. The memory of attending a real estate workshop, where a fellow realtor cautioned me about the challenging prospect of making no money in the first year, lingered in my mind. Instead of succumbing to that narrative, I found inspiration in Maya Angelou’s empowering words from “Still I Rise.” Determined not to let a potentially difficult first year define my path, I embraced the resilience required in the ever-changing real estate market.

Navigating the twists and turns of the industry, I understood the importance of authenticity, response, and consistency. I adopted a mindful approach, carefully curating the thoughts I allowed into my mind. I firmly believe that the direction of one’s mind shapes the course of their actions. Entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster, where one day you’re on top of the world, and the next, the rug can be pulled from underneath. In those challenging moments, I anchor myself in the “why” behind my endeavors, realizing that my work extends far beyond personal success. Life, to me, is a story I have the privilege to write, and with resilience, determination, and a commitment to a purpose larger than myself, I continue to navigate the unpredictable terrain of entrepreneurship in the real estate industry.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

In my approach to client relations and brand loyalty, I’ve adopted a philosophy centered on delivering value throughout every stage of the real estate journey. While the core of my business involves facilitating the buying and selling of homes, I recognized early on that I am fundamentally in the customer service business. This realization prompted a shift in my perspective, focusing not only on the transaction itself but also on how I could enhance the overall experience for my clients.

Understanding that the needs of homebuyers and sellers extend beyond the transactional phase, I proactively seek ways to provide ongoing value. Long after the deal is closed, clients may require information on essential vendor services like lawn care, HVAC, and roofing. Sellers might be in need of market insights as they explore new homes to replace the one they’ve sold. By anticipating these needs and going the extra mile to address them, I aim to create a lasting impact and foster brand loyalty.

For me, customer service transcends mere satisfaction; it involves predicting and meeting my clients’ wants and needs before they even have to ask. This commitment to understanding and exceeding expectations aligns seamlessly with my branding. I believe that by consistently delivering value and anticipating the evolving needs of my clients, I not only build lasting relationships but also contribute to a strong foundation of brand loyalty that goes beyond individual transactions.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ivykeyteam.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericagarvinrealtor/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ivykeyteam/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericagarvinrealtor/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ericagarvin918
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAOT1hqYJh_KOwUf0LbQagQ
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/erica-garvin-ivy-key-team-ilove-realty-tulsa?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)
• Other: Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ericagarvinrealtor Link Tree: linktr.ee/ericagarvinrealtor

Image Credits
James W Parker Jr with JW Photography Jaleccia Ates with Jaleccia Ates Photography