Saira Reynolds, 2023 A.E. LePage REALTOR® of the Year for British Columbia, reveals her top business tips and success strategies
Each year, Royal LePage® recognizes agents from coast to coast who have gone above and beyond with the A.E. LePage REALTOR® of the Year Award. This award is presented to one national recipient in addition to one agent in each of the five regions across Canada , based on productivity, leadership, community and Royal LePage® Shelter FoundationTM involvement.
We had the pleasure of speaking with Saira Reynolds, the 2023 A.E. LePage REALTOR® of the Year winner for British Columbia, to share some of her inspirations, advice for other real estate professionals, and insights into her success. Here’s what Saira had to say!
What motivates you as an agent, and where does your inspiration come from?
I draw my motivation and inspiration from my core purpose, which is to empower and educate my clients during their real estate journey. When I started as an agent, my goal was to ensure that people felt informed and confident when making significant life decisions like buying or selling a home. Reflecting on my own experience as a young homebuyer, I recognized the gaps in education and support that I needed. This realization drives me to prioritize education in my business, helping clients feel equipped with the knowledge they need. Remembering my ‘why’ keeps me grounded, even during long hours or challenging days, and propels me forward.
What advice would you give to aspiring agents, or those looking to level up their business?
Real estate is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle. Having a clear purpose and a guiding ‘North Star’ is essential to navigate through the tough times. This career involves managing various personalities and emotions from clients, other agents, and support staff, so having compassion and strong people skills is vital. Having genuine curiosity and interest in people are key, as you’ll play a significant role in your clients’ lives. The best agents are those who truly invest in their clients, which not only fosters repeat business but also generates strong referrals.
Do you leverage any productivity tools that contribute to your daily and overall success?
My digital calendar is my lifeline—if it’s not scheduled, it doesn’t happen. Time blocking, where I allocate specific segments in my calendar for tasks, is another strategy I swear by. Additionally, Client Relationship Management (CRM) systems and administrative staff are crucial to keeping the business organized and on track. I also set alarms and notifications on my phone to ensure I never miss important appointments.
What creative strategies do you rely on to attract and generate high-quality leads for your business?
When I began my career, I was passionate about education. I organized seminars for first-time buyers and investors, specifically targeting women, to build a network where we could discuss finance and real estate openly. This approach helped me generate business early on. Now, I primarily focus on nurturing repeat and referral business from past clients and colleagues. I have also collaborated with retiring agents to ensure their clients are well taken care of by our team as they transition out of the business.
What do you believe sets you apart from other professionals in your marketplace?
I work best with people who value human connection, not just a transactional relationship. I deeply care about my clients and am genuinely interested in their experiences and perspectives. I spend the necessary time asking questions, listening to my clients and understanding how they make decisions so I can best support and advise them as they’re making big life decisions. Aside from the human aspect, we also have strong systems in place and have carefully curated every step of the home buying and selling process. We are passionate about our clients having a seamless and positive experience when they work with us and we will go above and beyond to make it happen.
The Royal LePage Shelter Foundation is a cause close to the hearts of many Royal LePage professionals. Can you tell us about your involvement with the Foundation and what motivates you to make a difference?
My business partner and I hosted our first fundraising event for the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation in 2013. The experience was incredibly motivating and opened our eyes to the impact we could have. This led to our annual fundraiser, “Raise the Roof for Women’s Shelters.” Even during the pandemic, we continued our efforts through online auctions. Over the years, I’ve met people who have benefited from women’s shelters, and their stories have fueled my passion for the cause. Fundraising for the Foundation has become a cornerstone of our business, uniting our team and driving our purpose. I am proud to be part of Royal LePage, a company that places philanthropy and community at its core.
If you were talking to an agent from a competing brand, what reasons would you highlight for choosing Royal LePage?
Royal LePage feels like a family, with a strong sense of community and support at both the brokerage and national levels. There are ample networking opportunities to connect with agents across the country, helping build a robust referral network. The company’s bricks-and-mortar presence and professional approach set it apart from low-service or low-fee brands. Most importantly, the charitable aspect, especially through the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, is a significant draw. Many within the network prioritize philanthropy, aligning with my values. Overall, Royal LePage is a reputable Canadian brand that I am proud to represent.
For more inspiration on advancing your real estate career with Royal LePage, visit royallepage.ca/joinus.
