Meet the Agent: Khalen Meredith, Sotheby's International Realty Canada

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

THE INSIGHTS

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in England, Canada, and the US, but mostly in Ontario.

What neighbourhood do you live in now?

I live in Old Aurora, Ontario.

What made you want to become a real estate agent?

A friend of mine, who was in the business, recommended that I consider it. Funny enough, we are now both in the same brokerage. I had owned my own furniture business prior to this so was quite used to self-employment, which was very helpful.

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

Managing expectations. When markets change, some clients have a difficult time adjusting. Markets are always moving so this is pretty consistent for both buyers and sellers.

READ: Meet the Agent: Patrice Groleau, Engel & Völkers Montreal

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

Sell and buy in the same market. Also, put yourself in the buyer's shoes when considering your home. This can be very helpful.

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

Work with an expert in the area you are considering. This is critical. It applies to any profession in my opinion. Find professionals who are knowledgeable and experienced.

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

I think it’s important to continue to give value to your clients. This could be a newsletter or social media. Informative content is key.

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

I look up to those who have been in the industry for some time and know how to adjust to the changes in technology and the business in general. Their knowledge of the industry is usually considerable.

READ: Meet the Agent: Carleigh Hofman, rennie & associates realty ltd

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

We aren’t all in it for the commission cheques. I never consider the fees on my transactions until my office sends me the TRS. I think it’s the wrong thing on which to focus. If you take good care of your clients and business, the rest will take care of itself.

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

I have to say that the majority of them are very positive. I do really enjoy seeing what my clients have done to the properties they have purchased. It can be very transformative.

As for a particular sale, we did have a seller and buyer who knew each other but didn’t realize it at the time. The home and property were outstanding and the client we brought to it loved it at first sight -- not knowing who the seller was. It was all very civil and it felt right to both parties. It was a pleasant experience for all of us.

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

Professional. Wise. Honest.

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

Spending time with my animals. Apologies to my family. 😊

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.