Judy Conroy

Remax Dynamic Agents in St. Peter/Mankato

How many years in the business: 22

Q: Give us a little bio of yourself, how and when and why you got into real estate? I have spent most of my life in St. Peter where I raised two children and now have two grandchildren who are also growing up in St. Peter. It was a bit by accident that I got into the real estate world as I took a basic real estate class in college and after it was done the instructor informed us that the hours would qualify for participants to take the state license exam. I found real estate intriguing and interesting so I went on to complete all the other classes and became a realtor and it’s been one of the best, most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made.

Q: What have been the biggest changes in the business that you’ve seen over the years:

I’ve seen many changes in the real estate industry but one of the biggest has been the advanced technology. Realtors used to have to wait about two weeks for the new MLS books to come out with all the new area listings....now we get them instantly. Where we used to have to call other agents to set up showings, now it’s all done electronically. It’s now amazing how you can be so much more productive and efficient

Q: What do you think are the secrets to your success?

I don’t think there are any big secrets to success. I think you do what you love, treat everyone fairly and honestly and be an advocate for your client every step of the way. Return calls, when you don’t know something, ask, and remember we are working for our clients and they deserve our absolute best.

Q: How have higher prices, rising interest, and low stock changed the landscape, and how do you approach your job?

Over my career I have seen so many market changes. Now with fluctuating interest rates and the low inventory of properties on the market, I feel I approach my job as I always have...putting clients first and making sure to communicate in a timely manner. If you delay in contacting a client about a new listing they could lose out as properties are still selling quickly. If you delay and interest rates rise before you get everything together it can cost your client a lot more in a monthly payment

Q: What are some of the key questions buyers and sellers should be asking real estate agents?

Buyers and sellers should feel 100% comfortable with the agent they choose to work with and no questions should be off limits. Buyers should find out the experience of the agent and what areas they feel comfortable showing properties in. Sellers would also want to ask the level of experience and how will the agent determine the best listing price and what will they do to market the property and negotiate with all parties to achieve the best results.

Q: What things are buyers and sellers unprepared for or mistakes they make coming into the process?

I think sometimes people think the whole process of buying or selling a home is a lot easier than it is. There’s so much more than just looking at houses. For example, you have to make sure all the proper disclosures and paperwork are filled out properly, coordinate with appraisers, inspectors, lenders,and title companies. Buyers today need to prepare themselves that the process may take longer and they may lose out on a few properties due to the low inventory. However, my experience has taught me everything works out for the best in the end.....buyers do find the perfect house for them!

Q: What would people be surprised to know about you?

People may be surprised to know that prior to being in real estate I was at KRBI Radio (now The River 105.5) for over 20 years. Responsibilities grew over time and included writing and recording commercials, doing on air shifts, remote broadcasts, along with management responsibilities and selling advertising. It was a great career and I feel it was a great help when I decided to go into real estate.