We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sarah Slattery a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Sarah, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Early in your career, how did you think through the decision of whether to start your own firm or join an established firm?
I started my career in real estate as a solo agent, choosing not to join a team even though I was told by other agents it would bring in business “quicker”. I was grateful to have a family friend (also top producing agent) mentor me for my first few transactions. I learned how to build my own systems and knew it would take me a little longer for people to learn my name and get to know me, I wanted to build my business the way I envisioned. I wanted to build my own brand from the ground up—one rooted in genuine authenticity and personal connection. Most of my business has been referral based, which I am very grateful for! I take pride in my marketing and truly believe it takes another level of discipline and holding myself accountable to build my business this way. It most definitely is not always easy and there are many challenges and highs and lows! I believe consistency and honesty is key. By creating my own systems and fostering real relationships, I’ve been able to serve clients in a way that truly reflects my values and the reputation I’m proud to stand behind.
Sarah, 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?
Before real estate, I spent 8 years in the restaurant industry—starting with my very first job as a hostess that brought me out of my shell. I worked my way into management, where I honed my customer service skills, became a trusted problem-solver, and learned the value of being the person others rely on, and running a team. I’ve always loved being knowledgeable and continuously learning, and my passion for people naturally led me to real estate. I wanted to steer away from the “sales” reputation realtors had and that was what I admired about my mentor. What sets me apart is my ability to truly get to know my clients, actively listen to their wants and needs, and guide them without ever making decisions for them or pressured. My non-pushy, client-first approach ensures they feel supported and confident every step of the way. What I love most is being part of my clients’ journeys and stories is becoming a part of their lives and staying in touch with them long term. I also love that I can be a resource for them, recommend any vendors for home improvements, or just be a contact in a time of need. I believe in knowing and being apart of the community. From informing them about community events or hosting my own! I typically do 2-4 events per year. Easter bunny photos, free coffee event, wellness event etc. It makes getting to know the people in different communities fun and they get to know who I am as well!
I also have a marketing background and feel that a lot of the strengths I can offer a client is the creative marketing strategy that’s tailored to their unique neighborhood.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
My community events that I host. Inviting neighbors, family, friends, friends of friends, and putting on a small event where people can come together, get to meet me, and meet others has been one of the most effective strategies for growing my clientele and it is crazy to think I started these events just to make things a little more fun and because I actually enjoyed it! My favorite is my wellness event because I have a passion for fitness and actually coach at Orangetheory and I think it’s a great way for people to try something new, meet like minded individuals, and be apart of their own community.
I also created a small networking group for young professional. A friend and I thought, how great would it be if we created a casual meeting once a month, with other business owners, so we could chat, learn from each other, maybe refer each other business, and just make networking fun, by getting to know one another and not have it be so “serious”.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
I truly believe in working hard and knew real estate would be a 24/7 type of job. Some might think you make your own hours… it does come with flexibility, but you REALLY have to find your balance in this career. I had a hard time turning my brain off and finding the work/life balance. That might be a good thing in the sense of I truly found my passion and love what I do, but needed to also prioritize myself and my family at times!
One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was thinking that saying “yes” to everything and moving at a constant sprint was the only way to succeed. Early on, I thought being available 24/7 and taking on every opportunity—would prove my value. Over time, I realized that boundaries, intentional focus, and quality over quantity most of the time not only lead to better results, but also allow me to serve my clients more effectively. Real estate is about connection and strategy, not burnout. Do I still jump out of bed at 9pm to work or respond to emails late at night.. yes… But I also learned to put my phone down at dinner or during family time and being present!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Slattery.RealEstate
