What does it take to be a great real estate agent? My recent conversation with Phyllis Harb touched on some of the key elements of her successful real estate career, highlighting the
versatility and flexibility it takes to be a real pro.

"In addition to being a knowledgeable guide and great resource for her clients, a real estate agent is also part psychiatrist, part priest and even part poker player," says Harb. "Like psychiatrists, we must help people deal with enormous stress; in this case, the stress of buying or selling a home. Like priests, we must protect the personal and confidential information of our clients. And like poker players, we must always be firm negotiators for our clients."

Prior to entering real estate in 1989, Phyllis worked in real estate lending for 15 years. Throughout her career in banking, she managed two loan centers; oversaw loan underwriting; approved, processed and funded loans; was involved with the sale of loans in the secondary market; worked as a loan agent; was vice-president in charge of loan administration; and wrote policy and procedure manuals. Her extensive background in this area gives her a unique approach and understanding of real estate. She states, "Buying a home and the financing go hand-in-hand. If there's a problem with the loan, I can usually straighten it out promptly."

When the banking industry was rocked by a series of mergers and acquisitions, she found herself commuting and working increasingly farther from home. She decided to change careers but wanted to apply her expertise to a related field. Her mother was a real estate agent, and they decided to work together as a team. Within six months, their plans changed when her mother, Joyce Serra, moved out of state, leaving her clients in Phyllis' capable hands!