A diverse background of corporate jobs and a passion for service have helped shape Victoria Kustov into the driven agent she is today.

Having moved from Latvia to the U.S. in 1992, Kustov, who is fluent in both English and Russian, understands personally what it’s like to go in a brave new direction. The Burlington resident has built a 17-year career in the northwestern suburbs of Boston. However, she first held a range of jobs, including stints as a web developer, a medical secretary for a children’s hospital and a small business owner. “I realized that the nine-to-five lifestyle wasn’t for me,” she says. “I like to work with people. I like being the problem solver that helps them overcome obstacles and find their dream home.”

Kustov’s unique background is an asset. “All my experiences combined offer tremendous help in real estate,” she says. She sells over 20 homes a year by showcasing and marketing each property’s best features to help the seller walk away with more money.

“My clients always know what is happening and what to expect next, and they trust me to look out for their best interests,” says Kustov. While well-versed in all residential properties, she specializes in pre-foreclosures, short sales and first-time buyers aned sellers — specialties where trust is paramount. “I am someone who genuinely cares about my clients and their needs,” she insists.

Having already garnered a spot on the American Institute of Real Estate Professionals’ list of the 10 best agents in Massachusetts for client service, as well as the Certified Top Producer distinction from Best Agent Today for the last three years, Kustov has just received the distinguished Certified Residential Specialist designation for top residential agents.

“I’m a doer!” she says. “Clients often say they wish they had met me sooner.”