We were lucky to catch up with Maria Reese recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start with a fun one – what’s something you believe that most people in your industry (or in general) disagree with?

In real estate, there’s a common belief that higher-priced transactions deserve more attention or effort than lower-priced ones. I completely disagree. Every client, every home, and every deal matters equally. My approach doesn’t change based on price point because I believe every client deserves the best, whether they’re buying a cozy starter home or a multi-million-dollar estate.

This belief was cemented early in my career. I remember helping a first-time buyer purchase a modest home. The budget was tight, the process challenging, but the gratitude they showed was profound. Shortly after, I worked on a luxury listing, and I treated both transactions with the same care and dedication. What struck me was how both clients, regardless of their price range, valued the trust and effort I brought to the table.

To me, it’s not about the price—it’s about people. Every deal is a chapter in someone’s life, and I’m honored to help them turn the page. This mindset has earned me trust, repeat clients, and a career filled with meaningful relationships. It’s proof that going above and beyond isn’t reserved for luxury—it’s a standard I set for every transaction.

Maria, 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?

Hi, I’m Maria Reese, and real estate is where my passion for people and problem-solving collide. Sure, I help people buy and sell homes, but for me, it’s so much more than just transactions—it’s about creating an experience where my clients feel confident, cared for, and genuinely excited about their next chapter.

Before becoming a real estate broker, I wore many hats. One of them as a stock trader at a wealth management firm, diving deep into finance, market trends, and alternative investments like real estate. This experience gave me a solid foundation in understanding market dynamics, risk management, and strategic thinking—skills I now use to guide my clients through the financial complexities of buying or selling a home. I bring the same meticulous approach to evaluating properties as I once did to analyzing investments, ensuring my clients make informed decisions.

In addition to my financial background, I also spent time as a program manager, where I learned to anticipate needs before they arise, juggle multiple priorities, and keep even the most complex projects running smoothly. My time in the service industry further sharpened my ability to truly listen, adapt, and curate personalized experiences. I learned how to make people feel valued, understood, and at ease—a skill that’s invaluable in real estate, where emotions run high, and details matter.

Here’s the thing: no matter the price tag, I treat every deal like it’s the most important one. Whether it’s a cozy starter home or a luxury estate, I bring the same energy, attention to detail, and dedication. I help my clients with everything from staging and marketing to tough negotiations—because the little things matter, and they add up to big wins.

What sets me apart? I give my all. For me, it’s never just about the sale—it’s about the relationship. I’m grateful for the trust my clients place in me, whether it’s helping a family transition from a home they’ve cherished for decades or negotiating an under-list price for friends starting their next chapter. And yes, I’ve closed multi-million-dollar deals, but at the core of my work, it’s always been about the people—their stories, their goals, and the trust we build together.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Referrals have been a game-changer. When clients feel truly cared for, they’re excited to share their experience with friends, family, and colleagues. Social media has also played a role in expanding my reach. Sharing client success stories, market insights, and behind-the-scenes moments gives potential clients a glimpse of what it’s like to work with me.

Ultimately, it’s about consistency and authenticity. I treat every client like they’re my most important, no matter the price point, and that commitment to service has helped me grow a business built on trust and word-of-mouth.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One lesson I had to unlearn early in my career was the idea that I had to have all the answers immediately. In my previous roles, especially as a stock trader and program manager, I was accustomed to making quick decisions and having everything mapped out. But in real estate, I quickly realized that not every situation has a straightforward answer right away, and sometimes, the best approach is to take a step back and listen.

I learned that it’s okay to not have an immediate solution and that patience is key. It’s important to understand my clients’ needs fully, take the time to research and think through options, and involve the right experts when needed. This shift in mindset has made me a better advocate for my clients and has helped me build stronger, more trusting relationships. Now, I focus on process over perfection, which has made all the difference.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.realresidential.com
• Instagram: mariareese.homes