Maria Dracopoulos, Real Estate Sales Representative
50 Northline Road, Toronto, ON M4B 3E2
Chatting With Maria
Why did you get into real estate and what did you do in your pre-real estate life?
Before real estate I
worked in advertising. It was a lot of fun and I got to go on many adventures,
but I felt unfulfilled and wanted a change. I have always been interested in
and followed the real estate market, and home décor and architecture are
obsessions of mine. I was looking for something where I could be creative,
use my business skills and be my own boss. Real estate was just the
perfect blend of all of my interests and skills. I'm so glad I made the change
and never looked back!
What do you love most above what you do? What is the most rewarding thing about it? Etc.
I love that every day is different and that I get to form lasting
relationships with so many people. When you're someone's realtor you get
to know a lot about their lives. Sometimes you're a
sounding board, sometimes a therapist, sometimes a shoulder to cry on or
someone to jump for joy with...it's so much more than, 'Hey let's sell your
house'.
What is the best advice someone gave you that you can share with other agents?
Although this business is really tough and only the strong survive, if
you are good at your job, continuously educate yourself and truly care about
what you do, you'll be successful no matter what.
What is something you know now, that wish you knew when you first
started your career in real estate? This could be a strategy, advice, anything.
To trust in myself and my abilities. When you're new and dealing
with millions of other people's dollars, it's easy to second guess yourself and
seek the advice of others. But this advice can be wrong. Always do the
prep work yourself and trust your gut. You will be the best advocate for
your clients and make the most informed decisions for them.
Your best advice for a Toronto home buyer? OR Seller? OR both?
Find a good Realtor.
They are the key to your success, and you will 100% see their value throughout
the process. Do your research, interview a few agents, and see who fits in with
your wants and needs. Don't just hire your friend's, mother's second cousin or
someone who 'looks busy' on social media. Hire a professional who does
this full time.
Your favorite neighbourhood/s in the city and why?
Toronto is filled with many amazing neighbourhoods
that I love, but I'll go with my nostalgic choice; the Danforth/Greek-Town.
Born and raised in the area, it's been my stomping ground since I was a child.
Through the years I've seen it change and grow, evolving into a
vibrant, multicultural neighbourhood for all to enjoy.
Why did you choose Blue Door and how does BDR support your business?
I chose Blue Door because of the company culture and the
core values of the Brokerage. There's no BS sales pitch to try and get you in
the door. Everything that is promised to you is delivered. Our broker is
supportive, knowledgeable, and not afraid to keep us accountable to ensure
we're always at the top of our game. The boutique vibe really works for
me. You see a lot of big brokerages where the environment is toxic, and
everyone competes against each other. At Blue Door it really is a team
effort. We all help, support, and cheer each other on. You're also not one of a
thousand agents, left to fend for yourself. You get the help and
support you need when you need it, and that's priceless.
What do you think sets this brokerage apart and how does that help your clients?
I find that the boutique element of Blue Door really
appeals to my clients. They like the tailor-made experience they receive.
As a client you really get the whole Brokerage working for you, which is
uncommon in this industry.