What was your most interesting job before going into real estate? I managed a three-story nightclub before I could even legally drink! There I learned the importance of customer service and client communication skills. Working under pressure and in a fast-paced environment prepared me for the Boston real estate market.
Where did you grow up? Portland, Maine
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I head to my lake house at Lake Winnipesaukee in NH.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? The first people who come to mind are strong women ahead of their time. I would like to ask what they think made them successful and to hear any tips or advice they might have.
What is Boston’s best-kept secret? The Gridley Locks! Never heard of it? You’re not alone. This path can take you from North Station to Charlestown or Cambridge quickly by foot. Walking across the Charles River from Boston to Cambridge can be a long hike on one of the city’s bridges. The Gridley Locks are shorter, easier paths across a narrow part of the Charles via the Charles River Dam. It’s a section of Boston’s Harborwalk, but it’s not as well-known as other sections.
What do you love most about the industry? That’s easy. The people. The relationships and friendships made are incredible.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I have been involved in many facets of real estate and my career has had many different areas of focus over the years. For example, I have sold large development projects, converted many multifamily houses to condos, and sold to first-time homebuyers. Today, I continue to work on those types of projects, but have the pleasure of also working with international investment groups from Saudi Arabia, China, and Iran, just to name a few.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Moving my business from Compass to Donnelly + Co has made noticeable, positive changes in my work life, but I think the most difficult part of the job for me, even now, is taking time for myself. With Pauline’s [Pauline Donnelly, the founder of Donnelly + Co) guidance, I have learned to work smarter and to use my time in the most efficient way possible.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads? Donnelly + Co uses a simple client follow-up system that really works. —
What has been your greatest accomplishment? Loving my job where it rarely feels like work seems like the biggest success I could have!
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately? I don’t watch TV much, but I do listen to the podcast “Drunk Women Solving Crime,” which can be funny, and a lot of NPR in the car.
What’s your favorite meal in Boston? I have been spending a lot of time in the Seaport due to my new listing at the Echelon (133 Seaport Blvd #1808) and I have been loving Woods Hill Pier 4 across the street for dinner + brunch. They have great food, atmosphere, and cocktails.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Boston?Millennium Tower Boston, at 685 feet, is the tallest residential building in downtown Boston. I love the reflection of the city off of the building, especially the sunset. There are absolutely fantastic two bedrooms on the market with direct park views. What an iconic building to live in!
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job? Someone once tried to pay for a unit in cash – a literal briefcase of CASH.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you? I can juggle. It’s so silly, but really. I can juggle!
What is your favorite vacation spot and why? Anywhere with a boat and water. Period.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Be yourself.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? My calendar!
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media? I love to follow celebrity real estate pages to see lots of larger than life luxury property.