Today we’d like to introduce you to Sierra Walvatne.
Hi Sierra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started in the industry because my mom worked at a real estate office. I did administrative work for one of the top producers in that office at the time. Then I worked for another one of the top producing agents in that office. Eventually my mom told me that one of the top producing agents in San Diego was looking for a new assistant. I interviewed and got the job. I proceeded to work with her for the next 6.5 years. I basically learned everything by just being thrown into it. I participated in every facet of the real estate industry: showing clients, showing listings, writing offers, managing escrows, all transaction paperwork, meeting appraisers, holding open houses & Broker caravans. I did it all. And, between that top producer and I, we were closing 150-200 transactions per year. When we were with Century 21, we were actually number one in the world for that brokerage. While that was a tremendous amount of experience that could not be garnered anywhere else, it was extremely demanding. As one could imagine, we literally ate, slept and breathed real estate. And who am I kidding, we didn’t actually sleep. So after 6.5 years, I decided to go another direction and be part of a team where I could hopefully gain a better work-life balance. This lead me to become Director of Operations for the Altman Brothers San Diego team taking me deeper into the luxury market which was a whole other experience in itself. After some time, I decided to branch out on my own and focus on doing transaction management for agents. With the almost 20 years of experience I have and the volume of transactions I have done, I bring a level of experience to my clients that is almost unparalleled. I act as a consultant for many of my clients for this reason as well. Transaction management is often just the paperwork, but my clients call me to discuss what is going on with the market and the things that are happening with their transactions. Many of the agents that work with me say they do so because when they call I will pick up the phone, and they know they can ask me questions and get feedback. I pride myself on being a valuable resource to those that I work with. Currently, I work with many busy and successful agents but I am always looking to expand my clientele.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The thing that I love about real estate is that every transaction brings something new which means it also brings its own share of surprises and challenges. One of the harder things about the real estate industry is always having to be present. There are no breaks. You can’t ignore people. You have to be available 100% of the time whether it is in person, by phone or email. People demand a lot of your energy and time. The biggest struggle can be determining how to accommodate that. In that regard, I think time management plays a huge role. I believe learning how to balance all the demands of your real estate business and your personal life is crucial to success in this industry.
As you know, we’re big fans of Sierramisu Transaction Management . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
After almost 20 years working in real estate, I have a tremendous amount of experience. I believe that experience brings knowledge, confidence and support that is hard to find. I am an extension of my clients and a reflection of them as well. My clients recognize the value that I bring. I have very strong relationships with my clients. We collaborate and we work together to build their business to its full potential. I am always available and ready to provide assistance in any way that I can. This also means that while the center of my business is transaction management, I do assist my clients in extended capacities like if they’re on vacation and need additional help. I always try to be as available as possible. There is a level of care and consideration that leaves all parties extremely satisfied. I love people and I love what I do, and I believe that is very evident when people choose to work with me.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
As I mentioned previously, the volume of transactions that I used to do 150-200 per year. And working with the top producing agent to be #1 in the world. I think that will always remain at the top of the list.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Sierramisu
Image Credits
Valeria – took headshot and window shot
