Which part of the buying/selling process excites you the most, why?
I really enjoy the buying process. Looking at multiple homes, their styles, their finishes, or their potential if renovated. Within that process I enjoy learning and seeing how each buyer reacts and grows to realize what they want in a home. And once we get to “the one” and everyone is smiling, that is a great feeling to be a part of.
How long have you been a Realtor?
Since September 2007, 13 years!
What is the first thing that catches your eye when you walk into a home?
Brightness, or lack thereof, and paint scheme.
What is your favorite thing to do in Richmond?
Spend time with my wife and kids.
How has the pandemic changed the way you work with clients?
I do my best to limit contact now. Wearing a mask and carrying sanitizer is always a must.
What did you do before you became a Realtor?
I was a student at VCU. I also worked at my family’s restaurant for 12 years as a waiter, cashier, manager, and chef. I started when I was a teenager and worked there into adulthood.
What made you want to become a real estate agent?
To be honest, I kind of fell into becoming a Realtor after graduating from VCU. I never really thought of it as a career, or had any real knowledge of it as a career. I graduated with a Business Administration Degree, and shortly thereafter was offered a position to be a Property Manager for a Mixed Use Development. One of the requests was that I get my license. Long story short, this was the time frame of when “The Crash” happened. I earned my license, the company went bankrupt, and the development stopped. And there I was holding onto a license with nowhere to go. So I pushed forward, stuck with it through the real estate hard times, and saw it to the other side.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to buy/sell a home?
When purchasing, make sure the home excites you. If you have the time to search, there is no reason to force yourself into a home that doesn’t make you smile. Purchasing a home is one of the biggest purchases you will make. Take your time to make sure you find the one that you can see yourself living in happily.
What characteristic makes you a great agent?
Accessibility and communication. I respond quickly, whether I’m interacting with a client, another agent, a lender, etc. If there is a need, I make every effort to take care of it immediately, even if it’s late at night.
What is your favorite thing about being a real estate agent?
Throughout my career, I’ve always valued time with my family over Earning Potential. Now that I have two kids, it’s even more important. Being a Realtor allows me to do just that. I’m not locked into working certain hours 7 days a week. I can choose and control how my business is run, and what hours I need to work. I can find that balance and choose to spend more time with my family. I was taught Lifestyle is about Time and Money. You can have all the money in the world, but if you don’t have the time, then the money is worthless. Find that balance.
To learn more about Ken Chin, visit his Agent Bio Page.