Reflections on my Real Estate Career

By Carrie Colby

2024 marks my 20th year as a REALTOR. This milestone made me reflect on the past two decades selling and renting real estate in the Lakes Region.

The reason I left my 15-year marketing career was I knew I could create my own schedule and be there for my kids, friends and family when they needed me. My kids were 3 and 1 when I obtained my real estate license. I was able to volunteer at their schools, go to sporting events and be there when they were home sick. They are now grown adults with their own lives and careers.

This was the main reason to start my real estate career. These are the reasons I still love being a REALTOR and that makes me excited for the next 20 years.

I love waking up each morning knowing that no matter HOW much planning I do, my schedule will change at a moment's notice. Sure, there are regular tasks, but every day brings a different combination of things. New people, new properties, new obstacles to get past … no two days are ever the same.

One of the most profound and gratifying aspects of being a real estate agent is the opportunity to play a pivotal role in people’s lives. In this line of work, I am not just facilitating property transactions; I am helping individuals and families make life-altering decisions. Whether it’s a first-time homebuyer realizing their dream of homeownership, a couple finding their forever home, or someone transitioning due to a major life event, I am there to guide them through these transformative moments.

There’s an immense sense of responsibility that comes with this role, and with it, the genuine care we provide. It’s not just about the sale; it’s about understanding the unique needs and dreams of our clients. It’s about being their trusted advisor and confidant throughout the process. I hold a HUGE chunk of people’s financial life in my hands. If I think about it, this could be scary, but I find it very rewarding.

Of course I love marketing. I worked in advertising and marketing in NYC and LA prior to moving back to Maine. Real estate marketing is constantly changing, and I love learning all the cutting-edge tips and tricks. Real Estate is what brought me into the world of social media.

Real Estate will never die. I don’t care WHAT the market is doing, there is business to be had. Land will not go away and people will want to buy and sell it. The dynamic nature of this business keeps me on my toes. Shifting markets take me out of my comfort zone and into a place where I HAVE to be more effective for my clients. I like solving problems and real estate is a world of problems to be solved.

Real Estate is the ONE thing that I can relate ANYTHING to. It is kind of amusing, actually. Whether I am on the golf course or on a flight, the topic of Real Estate seems to creep into the conversation.

Real Estate has also given me the insight and respect for other professions that are commission-based. I always make a point of purchasing a service or product through the person who helped me make my decision, if that person is paid on commission. This applies to restaurant staff too (although my time waiting tables helped with that as well…)

As a real estate agent, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing tears of joy when a family gets the keys to their new home or the relief on a client’s face when they find the perfect property. It’s in these moments that I realize the profound impact I have on people’s lives. I am not just selling houses; I’m helping individuals and families find the place where they will create memories, build futures, and find comfort and security.

Carrie Colby is a Broker with Allied Real Estate, 909 Roosevelt Trail in Windham. She can be reached at 207-232-5497. <