What made you want to become a real estate agent?
I started buying rental properties when I used to work for Capital One. Later, I decided I might as well get my real estate license, then people started asking me for help. I realized I really enjoyed the entire process, from showings to contracts to closings.
What is your favorite thing about being a real estate agent?
Flexibility and being able to work with excited, first time homebuyers.
Which part of the buying/selling process excites you the most, why?
The art of putting a contract together.
What characteristic(s) makes you a great agent?
I’m laid back and analytical.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to buy/sell a home?
Don’t take the process personally. From the buying side, this should be fun, so approach it with that mindset.
What is your favorite thing to do in Richmond?
I’m a member at Lakeside Park Club. You can find me there enjoying a round of golf with my friends or clients.
What are you typically doing when you aren’t working?
I’ve traveled the world playing some of the most iconic golf courses. Pebble Beach, St Andrews and Carnoustie to name a few.
How long have you been a Realtor?
15 years.
What is the first thing that catches your eye when you walk into a home?
I check to see if the HVAC filters are dirty because that typically means the house isn’t going to be well maintained since the owners aren’t keeping up with such a basic piece of regular home maintenance. I also look for defects because I think the most important thing an agent can do is tell you when a house isn’t right for you instead of just agreeing that it’s the perfect house.
What is something your clients can expect when they work with you?
I will let them know if I don’t think the house is right for them. I’m not afraid to disagree with their assessment. They have the final say, but I’m going to be honest.
What did you do before you became a Realtor?
I worked at Capital One for 14 years, mostly in finance, which has helped immensely with the numbers side of the real estate transaction.
How has the pandemic changed the way you work with clients?
I preview more houses instead of bringing my clients to all of them. I’ll visit five out of the ten homes they might be interested in by myself so there isn’t as much traffic through the houses.
To learn more about Mike Drechsler, visit his Agent Bio Page.