Joanne Conway

Realtor, Sales Vice President William Raveis Real Estate

40 North St., Hingham 781-248-7041 raveis.com/joanneconway

What are three words people might use to
describe you?
Honest, knowledgeable and diligent.

How long have you been a realtor and what excites you most about the business?
I have been a top selling real estate agent for 33 years and I have been the No. 1 selling agent in my office for the 11 years I have been with William Raveis Real Estate. Every year the industry changes and evolves new facets that keep it exciting.  Marketing is more eye-catching and creative and the buyers and sellers are so much more knowledgeable on how the market works.

What is one essential characteristic of a great realtor?
I think a great realtor needs a lot of essential characteristics. Most importantly, the ability to cultivate relationships.  Your clients need to trust you in establishing a value for their home, negotiating the sell price and terms, working with the attorneys, bank appraisers, home inspectors and getting all the closing paperwork done on time and correctly.  Growing a network of resources that can help your client in the buying and selling process makes you a better agent.

What is the most gratifying aspect of your job?
Sometimes buying or selling a home can be stressful and when the process is successfully completed, it is wonderful to see happy families in their new homes.  You certainly feel like part of their lives during this period and if you are lucky those relationships turn into friendships.

What words of wisdom would you have to anyone considering a career in real estate?
It’s hard work. I think there is a perception that selling real estate is an easy job. To be successful, you need to be the expert that clients rely on. Home ownership is often people’s biggest asset, and their decision is both emotional and financial. As an agent your responsibility is to help navigate that purchase or sale. That responsibility needs to be taken very seriously.