It does not feel like it has been this long, but this October marks twenty years that I have been a full-time realtor in Berkeley. I started in real estate with my salesperson’s license in October 2002, and then completed the additional certifications to get my broker’s license in 2006.

It was a hard decision to change careers from academia to real estate (I was previously an economics professor at the University of San Francisco), but real estate is my passion, and I haven’t regretted it. I get to apply my economics background in things like analyzing market conditions, thinking strategically in negotiations, and doing cost-benefit analyses to help clients make smart financial decisions. I also get to be creative, in designing marketing materials, putting together the perfect photo package of a new listing, or envisioning the ideal look for a property going on the market. The combination of analysis and creativity is the perfect mix for me.

Over the last 20 years, a lot has changed in real estate. Technology has advanced and made it possible to do important tasks electronically, from preparing paperwork, to getting the word out about a new listing, to signing contracts. Social media advertising and individual property websites have become important components of a good marketing plan.

What hasn’t changed? Berkeley continues to be  a great place to live, and a very desirable and resilient real estate market!