Welcome to Meet the Agent, an ongoing series profiling real estate agents from across Canada. With more than 150,000 agents, brokers, and salespeople working in 75 different boards and associations across the country, we thought it was about time they had a place to properly introduce themselves.
If you or someone you know deserves the same chance, email agents@storeys.com to apply.
THE DETAILS
Name: Gail R Schuett
Brokerage: Wilfred McIntee & Co.
Personal Channels: Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram
Years of Experience: 15
Areas of focus: Grey and Bruce County, Port Elgin, Southampton, Sauble Beach, and the surrounding area.
THE INSIGHTS
Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Walkerton, Ontario, in the municipality of Bruce County.
What neighborhood do you live in now?
I live in Port Elgin, Ontario and I am just a short walk from a beautiful beach on Lake Huron. I’m a short stroll to nature trails. Very family/tourist friendly.
What made you want to become a real estate agent?
From working for many years in the wholesale home furnishings market, to the dynamic world of real estate, my transition was fueled by a passion for people and a recommendation from a trusted Realtor. With a natural aptitude for creating a positive and professional atmosphere, I can effortlessly make people feel comfortable in various settings. My people skills, business background, and eagerness to learn about the real estate market have made this a natural fit for me!
What’s the biggest challenge you see in the market today?
First-time buyers face challenges due to affordable supply shortages. Selling price expectations appear to be on the high end and competition can be strong, depending on the area and property type. As the housing market continues to re-adjust, we will see more balanced and affordable properties.
What’s the single best advice you have for sellers?
It’s important to work with a Realtor with whom you feel comfortable. An experienced Realtor can guide you on where your property fits in value-wise in today’s market. Your local Real Estate Agent knows the area, the homes, trends, and prices. Don’t overprice your property, as your property canbe used to sell other homes and your listing will get stale.
What’s the single best advice you have for buyers?
To set yourself up for a successful purchase I recommend the following: Be pre-approved by your bank/mortgage broker, define your budget, and speak openly with your Realtor with questions or concerns. Let your experienced Realtor educate you, be flexible with your “wish list” and be patient.
What’s the best thing a realtor can invest in for their brand (a bus bench ad, a solid Instagram strategy, etc)?
Consistency on social media and staying in contact with past clients. In a small community, it’s important to stay in touch with all your clients.
Who do you look up to in the industry and why?
I’ve been fortunate to work for a locally owned brokerage that has been in business for 70 years. The wealth of knowledge, guidance, and integrity that I have witnessed and admired over the years, has been invaluable. The deceased legacies that took me “under the wing” have contributed to my professional and personal growth. The group of Realtors that I currently work with continuously demonstrate strong ethics and I am privileged to be associated with these Agents.
Is there anything you wish people knew or understood about realtors that you think they’re constantly getting wrong?
In the world of real estate, it's not all glamorous and streamlined like on TV. There's a lot of behind-the-scenes hustle that goes unnoticed, from meticulously prepping listings to putting in countless hours searching for properties for our clients. We have many responsibilities and as a license Realtor, our job is to research, disclose, and look out for the best interest of the people we are working with.
Whether dealing with unique properties, rural homes, or seasonal leased land cottages, it is important to have all the correct facts and pertinent information available to a prospective buyer/seller. Our job is to be well-versed with the type of real estate property we deal with. This comes from experience, and the TV shows don’t reflect this.
Tell us about your favorite (or most memorable) sale.
I’ve had many sales over the years that have made an impression on me. It is difficult to pick just one or two that I am fond of. The sale of a family home that was built in the shape of a castle was so interesting and drew a wide variety of potential buyers. My one client who bought a home sight unseen and has since bought another property through me, is now a close friend. The cottage owner who was hesitant to sell her family cottage after owning it for over 54 years, and the clients who bought a small island! All these are just some of the many memorable sales for me, which I am grateful to have been a part of.
The three words you hope your clients use to describe you.
Honest. Diligent. Positive.
What’s your favorite thing to do outside of selling houses?
I love being outdoors in nature! I spend time doing photography, and traveling when I can. I’m somewhat of a foodie and enjoy making snacks and meals for friends and family. I enjoy reading and gaining knowledge.
