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: Matthew Romero
Brokerage:Angell Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd.
Personal Channels: Website | Instagram
Areas of focus: Langley, South Surrey and surrounding areas
Years of Experience: 5
THE INSIGHTS
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Langley, British Columbia. Born and raised here, my parents, immigrants from Mexico and Colombia, have called Langley home for nearly 30 years. Our roots run deep here, making it feel like home.
What neighbourhood do you live in now?
I've called Fort Langley home for the past 10 years. It has a small-town feel and a true sense of community which is important to me. The town's rich history and tight-knit atmosphere create a place I truly love to call home.
What made you want to become a real estate agent?
After excelling in various sales jobs post-high school, I sought to elevate my career. Shadowing a real estate agent for a few days solidified it as the perfect fit. Inspired by my mother's entrepreneurial spirit and emphasis on the client experience, I entered real estate. The joy of assisting families with what is usually their largest financial investment fuels my passion, making me feel blessed to be part of their journey.
What’s the biggest challenge you see facing the market today?
While interest rates remain a concern, the critical issue is the lack of inventory driven by rapid population growth. Canada's housing supply deficit, with only one housing start for every 4.2 people entering the working-age population, impacts both owners and renters, causing a collective price burden. Despite the challenges, there's a noticeable shift in demand from buyers, who may have been patiently observing and are now rushing to make purchases ahead of anticipated interest rate cuts and the subsequent rise in real estate prices.
What’s the single best advice you have for sellers?
The single best advice for sellers is to hire a real estate agent with three key qualities.1) Ensure they are an area expert, possessing local knowledge and the ability to devise unique perspectives and innovative strategies.
2) Choose a true marketing professional with a comprehensive marketing plan and meticulous attention to detail, covering aspects from photos and videos to social media campaigns and print products.
3) Select an agent who advocates for you during negotiations, understanding the significance of maximizing profits in selling your investment. This approach ensures a successful and profitable home-selling experience.
What’s the single best advice you have for buyers?
The single best advice for buyers is to prioritize getting pre-approved, as understanding their budget is a crucial first step. Nothing is worse than finding your dream home and it's not in your budget. Additionally, hiring a professional with local knowledge, a deep understanding of market conditions, and the ability to negotiate favourable terms on their behalf is essential. This ensures a smoother buying process and helps buyers make informed decisions aligned with their financial capabilities.
What’s the best thing a realtor can invest in for their brand (a bus bench ad, a solid Instagram strategy, etc.)?
The best investment for a realtor's brand is in technology-driven marketing, particularly through social media presence and what I like to call a "sexy" website. Embrace the future of real estate marketing by putting together a solid social media strategy. Take the time to define and align your brand identity with your authentic self. In the dynamic real estate landscape, targeting a niche audience is more effective than aiming to please everyone. Focus on technology, social media, a user-friendly and captivating website and niche marketing to enhance your brand's visibility and authenticity.
Who do you look up to in the industry and why?
Throughout my career, I've had several exceptional mentors, making it a challenging task to single out one. Beginning with Guy Biggar, my business partner, Our journey has evolved into an incredible partnership, transitioning from mentorship when I was a new agent to a successful business collaboration. Additionally, Dj Denner. He was the first realtor I followed on Instagram, and I've been fortunate to have been mentored by him. Lastly, Malcolm Hasman and his son Max Hasman, renowned for setting the standard in luxury marketing, stand out as industry benchmarks. Each mentor, from Guy to DJ to the Hasmans, contributes to my growth, offering diverse perspectives and inspiration and shaping my approach to real estate.
Is there anything you wish people knew or understood about realtors that you think they’re constantly getting wrong?
Tell us about your favourite (or most memorable) sale.
What are the three words you hope your clients use to describe you?
Genuine. Reliable. Ambitious.
What’s your favourite thing to do outside of selling houses?
Outside of selling houses, my favourite activity is prioritizing fitness and health. Engaging in physical exercise is crucial for my mental well-being and serves as a constant source of personal challenge. I grew up playing hockey and still play in a men's league. Additionally, I cherish quality time spent with my beautiful fiancée, family, and friends. Whether it's pushing my physical limits in the gym or on the ice and enjoying meaningful connections, these pursuits ensure I have a balanced and fulfilling life beyond the realm of real estate.
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.
