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: Tamara Barker
Areas of Focus: Halifax and Dartmouth Area
Personal Channels: Instagram | LinkedIn | Brokerage Website
Years of Experience: 34
THE INSIGHTS
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Baie Verte, Newfoundland, a small but beautiful coastal community known for its natural landscapes and strong sense of community.
Where do you live now? And what neighbourhood (in Canada, or worldwide) would you love to live in (that isn’t your own)?
I moved to Halifax in 1988 for university and now reside in the stunning Peggy’s Cove area. I wouldn’t want to call anywhere else home!
How did you end up becoming a real estate agent?
I purchased my first home while still in university and immediately fell in love with the process. The combination of strategy, negotiation, and helping people achieve such a significant milestone in their lives drew me into the industry, and I’ve never looked back.
In a few sentences, describe what a typical “day in the life” looks like for you. Does this align with what you expected before you became an agent?
Every day is different, which is what I love about this career. I didn’t have many expectations when I first started, as real estate was my first and will be my last career—but I can confidently say that this job constantly challenges and excites me.
What's the single best advice you have for sellers?
Choose a full-time agent who specializes in your area and has a proven marketing strategy. It’s important to ask about their approach—Instagram alone isn’t a marketing plan; it’s just one piece of the puzzle. A strong agent will have a comprehensive strategy that includes digital, print, and network-driven exposure.
What's the single best advice you have for buyers?
Work with an experienced, well-connected agent who will advocate for you at every stage of the process. While it may be tempting to choose a relative or friend, real estate is a competitive market, and you need someone who is deeply knowledgeable, proactive, and committed to securing the best outcome for you.
What made you choose to work for your current brokerage?
The leadership. My broker took a chance on me when I was just 21, and I made it my mission to prove that trust was well placed. That level of mentorship and belief in my potential pushed me to work hard, grow, and consistently deliver results.
Who do you believe is making the biggest waves in the industry today? Is there anyone you recommend people should be paying attention to right now?
I think some of the biggest disruptors right now are artificial intelligence and the evolving economic and political landscape, particularly the ripple effects from the U.S. presidential race. Both are shaping how the industry operates, from technology-driven efficiencies to shifts in market conditions.
What is one professional goal you have for the next year? What’s one that you have for the next 10 years?
In the next year, I aim to maintain my ranking among the top agents while refining my workflow for better work-life balance—leveraging my assistant more effectively will be key.
Tell us about your favourite (or most memorable) sale, and why it stands out to you.
My first commercial deal will always be a milestone, but what I find most rewarding is working with first-time homebuyers. Their energy and excitement are contagious, and guiding them through such a major life event is incredibly fulfilling. I also have a deep appreciation for new construction—every home is unique, and there’s something special about seeing a vision come to life.
What are the three words you hope your clients use to describe you?
Honest, determined, and fierce. I fight for my clients as if their deals were my own. It’s never just about closing a transaction for me—it’s about ensuring they get the best possible outcome, whether that means securing their dream home or selling at the best price with minimal stress.
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.
