Jen True

True Real Estate

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? Born and raised in the Mankato area. Being home with my two sons was a top priority for me when they were young, so for 6 years, I chose to stay home and became a licensed daycare provider. From there, I thought real estate would offer us flexibility, but little did I realize it was quite the opposite back then. I had to be in the office in the morning and afternoons to get business for the nights and weekends. It was definitely a juggling act but after a while, things began to click.

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

Technology. Virtual tours for clients via zoom and facetime. During the pandemic, many homes were sold without the client setting foot in the property until the closing date. With so much work done remotely and virtually, many brick-andmortar real estate offices are downsizing and offering flex workstations. Private agent offices are becoming less common as agents often meet their clients in person for showings but draft the paperwork online.

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

Mindset and perseverance. I make decisions quickly and go with my gut, and I take every opportunity to learn from the mistakes I’ve made when I didn’t listen to my gut. Finding a mentor as well as being a mentor. As a Broker/Realtor, I connect and relate to many people from all walks of life and where they are in their journey. Always help others and teach them what I know and I try to be open-minded to change and growth.

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

In today’s market, many buyers are unprepared for how challenging it can be to win the chosen offer. I use the word chosen because it doesn’t always come down to the highest price, as there are many facets to the offer. The need to be aggressive in pricing and negotiating is an understatement. Period.

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

How experienced are you in negotiating multiple offers? Are you a full-time or part-time agent? What is your marketing platform? Do you think professional photography is important? The answer should be YES!

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

They need to visit with their lender and have their financing all ready to go at a moment’s notice. Thanks to the media and the internet, I have found that buyers and sellers are ready now more than ever when coming into the process. The clients I work with are prepared because I do not sugarcoat this market and what it takes to win in this market. You’ve got to get creative and be aggressive.

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

I’ve ridden horses since I could walk. I can yodel and carry a tune.