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
Amy Leong/Instagram
Name: Amy Leong
Brokerage:Engel & Völkers Vancouver
Personal website: amyandally.com
Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook
Areas of focus: Vancouver, North Vancouver, Tri Cities, Fraser Valley
THE INSIGHTS
Where did you grow up?
In Surrey, British Columbia.
What neighbourhood do you live in now?
North Vancouver, British Columbia.
What made you want to become a real estate agent?
I first became a real estate investor at age 24 after renting and paying someone else's mortgage. I wanted to be the one cashing rent cheques, so I started studying real estate investing inside and out. I always had a fascination with owning multiple properties and beautiful homes.
What’s the biggest challenge you see facing the market today?
The regulations and rules are getting stricter, particularly in Vancouver, making it a challenge to balance cash flow and make a profit on investment properties.
READ:Meet the Agent: Kyle Bridson, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
What’s the single best advice you have for sellers?
Understand what it is you are going to do next before selling, craft a plan and if your property has seen massive appreciation, ensure you aren't letting that pass by if you are relying on the money for retirement or a lifestyle change.
What’s the single best advice you have for buyers?
There is a shift in the market right now that you can prepare for and take advantage of. Work with a realtor who knows the numbers inside and out so you can capitalize on a 'good buy'.
What’s the best thing a realtor can invest in for their brand (a bus bench ad, a solid Instagram strategy, etc.)?
Creating a consistent niche across all tech platforms -- repeatedly -- so people will be drawn to you for value.
Who do you look up to in the industry and why?
Maggi Thornhill from Engel & Völkers Whistler. She represents class, consistent results, and beautiful marketing. And she does it with amazing energy and an aura about her.
READ: Meet the Agent: Kevin Wong, Right at Home Realty
Is there anything you wish people knew or understood about realtors that you think they’re constantly getting wrong?
A great realtor can change your financial path and ensure you are creating substantial wealth.
Tell us about your favourite (or most memorable) sale.
My first big listing (over $2 million) was with a family whose basement suite I used to rent when I was in university. It truly came full circle, and I remember the seller saying "Amy, is that you? We knew you would [make] something of yourself," and I got the listing. It was very special because I felt like winning this listing solidified my worth in the luxury detached market as a younger agent.
What are the three words you hope your clients use to describe you?
Knowledgeable. Trustworthy. Energetic.
What’s your favourite thing to do outside of selling houses?
Play and be with my mini dachshund puppy, Oliver.
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.
