06/17/2026
One of my very first real estate deals taught me a lesson that still guides my business today.
At the time, I was working the front desk, learning the business, navigating new motherhood, and trying to build a real estate career from the ground up.
Back then, before Zillow, social media, and online lead generation took over, we had something called "floor leads." One day, an inquiry came through our company website. As the agent on duty, I received the buyer's information.
She wanted to see a foreclosure in Smithville.
Here's the twist: she had already reached out to the listing agent and never got a response. So she landed on our website instead.
I called her immediately and showed her the property.
She was an investor with a family background in renovations. She walked through that home with a vision. We put together what felt like a strong offer at the time (which, looking back, was about 80% of the asking price π), and she got the property.
Then something unexpected happened.
I got the listing when she was ready to sell.
Then she referred her friends.
Those friends referred their friends.
Before I knew it, I had multiple buyers, sellers, and investors entering my world because of one website inquiry and one positive experience.
The lesson?
Answer the call.
Return the email.
Respond to the inquiry.
You never know which conversation, client, or opportunity will completely change the trajectory of your business.
Great customer service isn't just about closing one deal. It's about building relationships that create opportunities for years to come.
Have you ever had one small moment unexpectedly change the course of your career? I'd love to hear your story.
Beth Van Syckle, SRS | Local South Jersey Real Estate Broker-Associate | Real | Galloway Managing Broker | π 319 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd., Suite 223 | Galloway, NJ 08205 | π± 609-331-7188 | βοΈ 609-380-3572