With a deep understanding of how the stress involved in buying and selling homes can adversely affect whole families, Austyn MacKinnon of 460 Realty - Powell River is on a mission to de-stress that process, offering a blend of coping strategies, guidance and market knowledge.
As the real estate market in the qathet region transitions from a seller's market to a more balanced landscape, MacKinnon notes a significant shift in clients’ attitudes.
"People get overwhelmed by reading conflicting headlines and come up with their own assumptions," she says, emphasizing the need for clear, calm guidance in navigating these changes.
Despite the fluctuating market, MacKinnon's strategy focuses on making real estate transactions as stress-free as possible, encouraging open communication and honest feedback from her clients.
One of her standout qualities is the ability to forge genuine connections with clients, often leading to comments like: "I wish I would have talked to you when I sold my last house."
MacKinnon's approach is organic, addressing not just the technicalities of real estate transactions but the emotional and psychological aspects as well. She is keenly aware of the stress associated with major life changes, including purchasing and selling homes.
"Buying and selling real estate is always stressful," she acknowledges, adding that her goal is to "relieve some of that burden" by walking clients through the process and getting them the answers they need to resolve any concerns.
Her commitment to her clients extends beyond mere transactions.
MacKinnon leverages her network of professionals, including mortgage brokers, lawyers, inspectors and contractors, to ensure her clients have access to the best resources. This network, combined with her dedication to thorough communication, helps clients make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals and financial realities.
Her marketing prowess, backed by 460 Realty's advanced resources, provides maximum exposure for listed properties. From social media campaigns to video tours with clients who can't be there in person, she utilizes every tool at her disposal to present homes in a way that serves the client.
MacKinnon's hands-on approach and willingness to tackle any task — even meeting repair professionals to fix an issue while homeowners are away — sets her apart in a competitive market.
“What I do to connect with clients is not market statistics, not sales pitch mumbo jumbo,” she explains. “I try to connect as a person, to recognize people in their unique struggle, as most pain is invisible. I give them space to be vulnerable and share honest obstacles I've faced myself so they know my life isn't Instagram-perfect.”
With the advent of artificial intelligence inundating real estate marketing, MacKinnon feels that it is more important than ever to keep a human element at the forefront.
“I've needed to ask what I thought were silly questions of professionals, too, and I let clients know their journey is something we can work through together, on their terms, in order to keep the 'real' in real estate.”
MacKinnon can be contacted by phone at 778.986.1691 or by email at [email protected].
