Steffanie Fick
We sat down with Women to Women Network member Steffanie Fick, of Apex Group @KWSC, and here’s what she had to say…
Who are your clients/customers?
I serve a large category of customers. On the residential side of my business, I work with home buyers, sellers, and property managers. On the commercial side, I work with tenants on leasing, acquisition, and disposition of commercial real estate.
I tend to work with smaller businesses of 25 or fewer employees looking for retail space, second-generation restaurant space, or flex space, usually a combination of warehouse and office space.
Another portion of my clientele are empty-nesters looking to downsize their home. I find that a lot of my buyers are second-time home buyers.
How do you help your clients/customers?
I am working toward my Accredited Buyer Representative designation through the National Association of Realtors. This education has given me a very detailed process for home buyers. I also have my Short Sale and Foreclosure designation. In these cases, I get to know the homeowner (who may have chosen mortgage forbearance) and guide them in their options.
Whether my clients are buying or selling, I use all the skills I have learned as an educator.
What brought you to this line of work?
I’ve always enjoyed helping people, and ever since I can remember, all of my jobs have been in sales. A friend suggested I join her in real estate, and it clicked. My mother was an agent in Missouri, so it runs in the family a bit. I like that I get to use my teaching skills—I even feel like a counselor sometimes, and that suits me.
What brings you the most joy in your business?
I love making new friends, and I feel lucky to say that all of my clients are now friends. I also really enjoy closing the deal and handing off the keys to the new owner. Seeing people’s excitement starting a new stage in their lives or opening the next chapter brings me joy.
I tend to treat my customers to small surprise gifts at different points of the buying process, and that always puts a smile on my face, too.
What defines you/your business?
My values define my business. I am a “professional student,” and I highly value education. Educating myself, my clients, my children, my friends—it’s so important to me.
I’m also a very loyal and committed person. I listen to Darren Hardy, a productivity coach. One of his daily 5 minute videos asked what results do you provide every day. After some thought, it came to me that I see everything through to the end, and I go the extra mile.
Apex Group @KWSC