We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rose Dante a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Rose thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Early in your career, how did you think through the decision of whether to start your own firm or join an established firm?
I came into the real estate market during the tail end of the market crash, 2010. I was working as a loan officer and I was a manager of a home remodeling company. I was at that job for 18 years. The crash hit the remodeling industry hard as well. Few people ever talk about that. The ripple effect of the foreclosures was far and wide. As work became more challenging and far between I jumped into action. I was a single mom at the time and needed to make ends meet. I signed up for a realtors course. Once completed I took the state test and passed. So there I was ready to make the choice of where to hang my license and who to work with. I interviewed several companies. Ultimately for me, Baird & Warner was the most supportive of new agents. They offered classes for new agents that taught me valuable skills I still use today. 13 years later I am still with the same office surrounded by amazing people who are always available to help support me. They continue to offer the agents education to keep us at our best. Showing us the best ways to serve our clients. Service is key!
Rose, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am in the business of service. I am most happy when I am helping people. Whether its buying their first home, selling their childhood home, or volunteering in my community. I enjoy helping people.
As previously mentioned, I came into to the real estate market during what was historically the worst time. Agents where leaving and trying to find work elsewhere. I just kept my head down and worked. I treated each client no matter how big or small like they were a million dollar deal. I still do!
Real estate is quite possibly one of the biggest and most emotional transactions of a persons life. I treat it that way. The key is to listen to what your client wants, ask questions so you really get to know them. Then do your absolute best to provide them what they are looking for or guide them in the best direction. Be their trusted advisor.
What sets me apart? Aside from my work ethic is my ability to empathize with my clients. I listen to what they are saying. Most of my clients have become friends! Also I am fluent in spanish!
I have 2 very proud recent moments. First let me start by telling you that I have had a second home in southwest Michigan for many years now. South Haven to be exact. Its the cutest beach town and located only 2 hours from my home town of Chicago. I decided in the fall on 2022 to get my real estate license in Michigan. Took the 40 hour course and test in the spring and passed! So I am now able to sell real estate on both coasts of lake Michigan. The second was when I was nominated to be in in Chicago Agent Magazine’s Who’s Who edition! I have never been in that edition. I have looked at it each year always in awe and inspired by my colleagues who have been in it. Now its my turn and I could not be more thrilled!!! The edition is coming out soon!!
We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.
I recently started sending hand written notes. It sounds kind of old fashioned, I know, but I was a recent participant in a class called Ninja Selling Installation offered by Baird & Warner and it really brought me back to basics when it comes to fostering brand loyalty. It reminded me that the best way to keep your clients happy is by being your their trusted real estate advisor and their friend. I call my clients to check in to see how they are doing. A simple happy birthday call or congrats on their kids graduation, or a sympathy call. I send out a hand written note to 2 people a day. They response has been overwhelmingly positive. I love hearing back from my clients.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
I hired a social media advisor from within our company. She and I met monthly to go over content. She encouraged me to do supplemental posts. I was super nervous about doing any reels but once I got the hang of it I really started having fun with it. Consistency is key when it comes to building an audience. You have to interact with your followers too. Keep in fun and informative!! I am currently branching out and looking to hire another social media advisor for more in depth one on one. It’s important to me that my social media be an accurate reflection of who I am
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rosedante.bairdwarner.com/
- Instagram: your.gotorealtor
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoseDanteHomes
- Linkedin: linkedIn.com/in/RoseDante
Image Credits
Lisa Kay Photography