Educational Foundation Trustee Spotlight: Judy Stefanik

Influenced by her late mother and past New Jersey Realtors® Educational Foundation Trustee, Gertrude M. “Pat” Stefanik, Judy Stefanik always had an interest in helping others. She applied to be a trustee in 2008 and has enjoyed helping students achieve their goals ever since.

How long have you worked in the real estate industry?

I have been licensed for over 40 years and have been working full-time in real estate since 2000. Prior to that, I was employed in the employment and training field.

Why did you get involved in real estate?

It was a natural progression for me, I was raised in the business. My mother, Gertrude M. “Pat” Stefanik, opened her business when my sister and I were both very young. We spent countless after-school hours in the office, and we learned a lot about people. I worked in real estate part-time while at my former job which involved assisting people with their goals of work and school. Now, I help people with their homeownership goals.

Who inspired your career and how did they inspire it?

My mother was a huge influence and inspiration. She started her own office at a time when not that many women were small business owners. She was fortunate she had an encouraging husband. Through her involvement in the Realtor® organization, I also met many men and women who were great examples of our business both professionally and with community involvement and volunteering.

Why is real estate a good career choice?

You’re basically your own boss, therefore, you can set your own course. It’s rarely boring or routine, and there’s always a new challenge.

How did you get involved with the NJ Realtors® Educational Foundation?

I’ve always had an interest in education and knew of the great work the New Jersey Realtors® Educational Foundation did long before I was involved. For years we had a Dollars for Scholars collection in our office when my mother was a foundation trustee. I applied to become a trustee and have been honored to be a small part that helps people achieve their educational dreams.

Do you have any advice for students interested in pursuing real estate?

Have a good understanding of finance, money, budgeting and technology. If possible, try spending a day with an agent to observe their work day.

What do you enjoy the most about your career?

It’s rewarding to help people find the perfect home. You meet people from all walks of life and always learn something new.

Knowing all that you do now, do you have any advice for new Realtors®?

Treat buyers and sellers the way you want to be treated— with courtesy, respect and dignity. Don’t lose your sense of humor, and never spend your commission before the sale has actually closed.