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: Makan Emami
Brokerage:Angell Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd.
Personal Channels: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
Areas of focus: Vancouver West, North Vancouver, West Vancouver

THE INSIGHTS

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Tehran, Iran, but my upbringing took place in Canada from the second grade onward. Our family moved from Tehran to Vancouver, and eventually, we established our home by purchasing a small house in Coquitlam.

What neighbourhood do you live in now?

In 2015, my family relocated to Edgemont, where we stayed until today. Recently, I've moved into my own apartment in North Vancouver.

What made you want to become a real estate agent?

After spending almost ten years in sales post high school, my dream was to become a real estate agent. Job hunting right after high school was a bit tricky due to my youthful appearance. However, I stumbled into a random sales position and quickly found myself excelling as a top performer. That's when I discovered my hidden talent in sales. My journey took me from selling cell phones, B2B inventory software, and cars to eventually diving into the world of real estate. I consistently ranked among the top salespeople in every company I worked for. The driving force behind this career shift was my enduring desire to run my own business from childhood. After selling loads of cars to various agents in the city, their unanimous recommendation for my suitability in real estate motivated me to make a bold decision to pursue it.

What’s the biggest challenge you see facing the market today?

In addition to the elevated rates and the generally more challenging market conditions, a significant obstacle in today's real estate market is the surplus of agents in densely populated cities. The landscape is notably distinct for individuals with over two decades of experience in the industry. To succeed in the current environment, it's crucial to distinguish yourself and embrace a distinctive approach to build your client base. Otherwise, the high dropout rate in the real estate industry is not surprising.

What’s the single best advice you have for sellers?

For sellers in Vancouver's real estate market, staying informed is crucial. Work closely with a local real estate agent to determine a competitive listing price and consider professional staging and high-quality photos to enhance your property's appeal. Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes online platforms, social media, and traditional channels to reach a broad audience. Flexibility in viewing schedules, addressing necessary repairs, and maintaining transparency about your property can build trust with potential buyers. Enlist the services of an experienced local real estate professional to guide you through the process, provide market insights, and assist with negotiations. The key is to adapt to the current market conditions and present your home in the best possible light to attract potential buyers.


What’s the single best advice you have for buyers?

For prospective real estate buyers in Vancouver, it's crucial to conduct thorough research on the current market conditions. Understand property values, inventory levels, and recent sales data in your desired neighbourhoods. Ensure your financial readiness by getting pre-approved for a mortgage and considering all associated costs. Stay informed about local regulations and taxes, such as the foreign buyers tax and speculation tax. Collaborate with a qualified real estate agent familiar with the Vancouver market to gain valuable insights and guidance. Location is paramount, so choose neighbourhoods that align with your lifestyle and offer amenities and future growth potential. Prioritize a comprehensive home inspection and be prepared to negotiate terms strategically. Stay attuned to future market trends and seek legal advice to navigate the complexities of real estate transactions in British Columbia. Finally, stay informed through news, events, and networking to adapt to the dynamic nature of the real estate market.

What’s the best thing a realtor can invest in for their brand (a bus bench ad, a solid Instagram strategy, etc.)?

In Vancouver, while various marketing strategies are essential, the organic growth that stems from word of mouth remains a powerful force in the real estate industry. Beyond online and offline initiatives, fostering positive client experiences through ethical practices and delivering exceptional service can be the catalyst for significant growth. Satisfied clients are more likely to share their positive experiences, recommending you to friends, family, and colleagues. Being a reliable and trustworthy agent, consistently going above and beyond for your clients, contributes to a strong reputation and cultivates lasting relationships. This organic, word-of-mouth growth not only enhances your credibility within the community but can also serve as a foundational pillar for sustained success in the competitive Vancouver market.

Who do you look up to in the industry and why?

The individual I hold in high regard within the real estate industry isn't confined to a single person. On a local level, I find inspiration from numerous agents within my own office, with a particular admiration for figures like Malcolm Hasman. Collaborating closely with someone slightly younger than myself, Maxwell Hasman, and his father, Malcolm, has been truly fulfilling. Beyond my immediate professional circle, I draw inspiration from renowned agents like Ryan Serhant and others who have gained fame in the global real estate arena.


Is there anything you wish people knew or understood about realtors that you think they’re constantly getting wrong?

A common misconception among buyers and sellers when selecting an agent is the assumption that experience alone dictates effectiveness. It's crucial to recognize that, regardless of the years in the field, agents at different levels often have access to the same resources. While seasoned agents may possess additional insights, the key lies in partnering with an agent who is not only experienced but also driven for success and adaptable to contemporary trends. For instance, not all agents with extensive experience are adept at leveraging technology or swiftly creating marketing materials, skills that I bring to the table. My paramount advice is to choose an agent based on personal rapport and compatibility, ensuring they are not only likeable but also possess the hunger and flexibility to go above and beyond in achieving your goals.


Tell us about your favourite (or most memorable) sale.

Over the three years since becoming a real estate agent, I've had the privilege of handling a few standout and memorable sales. One of the highlights was the successful sale of a property in West Vancouver at 495 Gordon Avenue. Collaborating with one of West Vancouver's top agents, Eric Christiansen, we listed the property at $5,998,000 and achieved a record-high sale for the Cedardale area, without any price reductions. Another significant accomplishment was my involvement in a substantial land assembly deal. Building a rapport with prominent developer clients, who appreciated my approach, led to a nearly $10,000,000 sale in Langford on Vancouver Island. This transaction resulted in the development of approximately 60 townhomes across the eight properties I helped sell, and these units are currently in the presale phase.


What are the three words you hope your clients use to describe you?

Humorous. Persistent. Positive.

What’s your favourite thing to do outside of selling houses?

I consider myself a down-to-earth individual, channeling my energy towards maximizing my success in real estate, much like I've done in previous sales roles. During my downtime, you'll find me immersed in computer games with friends or exploring various corners of the world through travel. When I have the freedom, I also indulge in crafting my own marketing materials, creating videos, and taking photos just for the fun of it. My strong creative side and tech-savvy nature have always been defining elements of who I am.

This interview may have been edited for both length and clarity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of STOREYS.

Meet The Agent