December 17, 2021 | Good to Know

Ryan Roberts - Toronto Real Estate Broker

How long have you been a Toronto real estate agent?

I have been a Realtor in Toronto since 2007. Shortly after that, the financial crisis began, allowing me to cut my teeth in a challenging market to complete deals in. It was a challenging and creative time that taught me a lot that serves me today.

What was your background before real estate?

I grew up in an entrepreneurial home. The family business was advertising, marketing, public relations and events. I learned at a young age that the ability to connect and communicate effectively could make a big difference in business. Building relationships is what makes the business far more fun and engaging. After completing my degree in Communications at Wilfrid Laurier University, I began working for a number of Advertising agencies in Toronto. Then I accepted a job at TBWA\London in England – one of the top Ad agencies in the world.

What attracted you to the real estate industry?

I was working 80 hours a week in the Ad world. It occurred to me that if I put that much energy into my own business that I would be sure to succeed. I was 27 years old, and my friends were beginning to purchase real estate. These friends bought with much older agents who didn’t get their wants and needs. I saw an opportunity to serve my friends and their referrals. Over time, I could carve out the lifestyle that I wanted, including playing the mountains – whether that be skiing, climbing, biking, etc.

Is there any area of the industry you specialize in?

I have always said that I serve my clients and their needs versus a demographic or geographic area. That being said, looking back at my career, I have helped many families and investors with the purchase of houses and condos. Early in my career, my investor clients were purchasing homes (they have done phenomenally well!). As Toronto’s real estate market has matured and our population has increased, many of my investor clients are now purchasing condos.


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The most memorable moment in your real estate career

Hmm, the most memorable moment in real estate was probably my first deal. Helping my clients sell their homes gave me a real sense of satisfaction. They were thrilled. Nothing beats working with great clients who trust me and work in a collaborative, team sense.

Do you have any favourite neighbourhoods in Toronto?

I grew up at Yonge and Lawrence – so I must admit that it still feels like home to me. I have fallen in love with The Annex and Riverdale as an adult. Both neighbourhoods offer century architecture, tree-lined streets, parks, creative-minded residents, youthful energy and easy accessibility to the rest of Toronto. The Annex, in particular, provides a vibrance that is not found in many other places in downtown Toronto – students, business people, professors – all make for a great neighbourhood.

the Annex Toronto

Click here to get a glimpse of what it’s like living in the Annex

Do you have any favourite buildings in Toronto?

When it comes to my favourite condo buildings, I have an affinity for hard lofts. I love the unique features that each offers. Also, the fact that there is a history behind the buildings. Whether a baseball glove factory, candy factory, Wrigley gum factory, the list goes on. Toronto is fortunate to have the history and red brick buildings that much of western Canada does not have when it comes to Canadian real estate.

➤ For more on lofts check out: What You Need To Know About Lofts In Toronto

What’s the most common misconception people have about the Toronto real estate market? 

The most common misconception about the Toronto real estate market is that 1) there will be a market correction of double-digit percentage; this has been predicted since 2000…and we are still waiting. Will there be some years when we see -5%? Sure, but keep in mind that the years of value gains make that percentage drop inconsequential; 2) All real estate agents are the same. The average Realtor does one deal a year. 25% do zero. Be picky when it comes to choosing a Realtor. Ask questions of them, can you build a relationship based on trust? If so, you are on a good track. I cannot tell you how many times my team and I need to pick up the slack or pieces when trying to get a deal done with another Realtor. Sadly, their clients rarely know the mistakes they make in the process. We pride ourselves on a white-glove service that ensures our clients are happy and get the desired outcome!

One thing that a buyer should know before their first transaction

Hire the best, most approachable, professional Realtor you can find—someone who will take the time to answerer every question you have. Trust them to guide you through the transaction if you have chosen a true pro. It does take a leap of faith for some first-time buyers, but if you are working with an honest, experienced and professional Realtor, you will enjoy yourself, and there is no reason to lose out on multiple properties.

One thing that a seller should know before their first transaction

Much like the first-time buyer answer above. Work with a seasoned pro. Someone you can trust. Someone who will guide you through the steps. Not all Realtors are created equal. We pride ourselves on a white-glove service that ensures nothing is overlooked when selling a home. We have a checklist that we follow and a custom marketing plan to provide our clients with the most money for their homes and enjoy the process from start to finish!

Any final thoughts?

Trust. Trust and authenticity are rare but essential when choosing the right real estate agent. It’s vital that you feel comfortable with your Realtor. And it is possible to find the right fit. Don’t settle, don’t feel pressure to go with someone. Do what is best for you, build a relationship. A great realtor is worth their weight in gold. And you will have them for a lifetime.

 


For guidance on how to choose a qualified Toronto real estate agent check out:

 

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