With the retirements of three of its top agents during the COVID-19 period, RE/MAX Powell River is now undergoing a process of renewal.
While the office at 4545 Marine Avenue in Powell River is receiving a physical makeover, the true transformation is in the renewed culture that draws from the foundations laid by Willy Ostensen 40 years ago, adapting to the technical/social media parameters of today’s world while keeping personal contact with clients at the forefront.
“We work in a community, not in competition; we have the opportunity to change the real estate paradigm by working together; and we celebrate each other’s successes,” are not just sentiments heard at the office, they are beliefs being actively practiced.
The office is led by Ron Ostensen, managing broker for RE/MAX Powell River, who is licensed not only for real estate sales, but also for rental and strata management services. Ron’s passion is to ensure that every agent in the office has the information and knowledge to successfully deal with a wide range of properties, regulations, client needs and wants, and yes, sometimes even problems.
With Ron’s open-door policy, even the more experienced agents in the office such as Harry Zroback, Curtis Yungen, Ross Cooper, Chris Carlos and Meaghan Westie often have a chat with him to ensure they are in compliance with the latest changes in this ever-evolving and heavily regulated real estate business.
Part of the renewal can also be found in the unique talents and energy brought in by a number of new agents to the office and industry. These new agents include Monica Peckford, Magda Deininger, Sonia Kelshaw, Debbie Young and Lisa Bartello. They are actively mentored not only by Ron, but also by the seasoned agents.
Rounding out the office is Charlie Bai, who brings a diversity of culture and experience that is celebrated, plus Damian Wright, RE/MAX Powell River’s sometimes Texada Island resident agent. Like a ship has a crew to function properly, everyone has their own unique place and function, including the support staff, Wendy and Laurie.
The crew at RE/MAX Powell River is seeing a shift in perspective within the real estate industry, where it’s not just about buying and selling, but more about providing information, support and expertise to the community, whether people are actively engaged in the market or not. They have a commitment to transparency and community service.
Whether actively buying or selling or just exploring options, everyone is encouraged to drop in and receive information from them; they are happy to share it.
One initiative that showcases this commitment is The Current, a weekly printout of all available listings in the qathet region. People come in and pick them up all the time, and they are left out front for access even after business hours and on weekends.
From helping clients organize, declutter and prepare their homes for sale to being actively involved in community initiatives, charities and fundraisers, the RE/MAX crew isn’t doing anything for optics. They just want to serve the community and support their clients through every step of their journey through life and real estate involvement, whatever form that may take, whether buying, selling, renting, mortaging or just having a wish.
For more information, call 604.485.2741 or email [email protected].
