Colleen Foraker discusses her first month at our shop: easy transition, warm welcome, can-do culture, high standards, excellent marketing support.
What sold you on Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty?
“It was a combination of things. Michael takes a creative, entrepreneurial approach to the business, which sets a high standard for the company. He has assembled a great group of local agents who work very well together. The marketing team has developed outstanding materials that speak to the way the business is done today. And last but not least, the recent strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, one of the world’s most respected luxury brands, has catapulted the company to a whole new level. In my view, Dreyfus Sotheby’s is fast becoming one of the go-to brokers on the peninsula.”
What has been your experience so far?
“My transition was easy. The agents gave me a warm welcome. The support team helped with the logistics of updating profiles and transferring over systems. The move also gave me a good opportunity to reach out to clients with my announcement.”
What do you think about the culture?
“It is a can-do culture. Creativity and collaboration are strongly encouraged. The small group environment really fosters this. I’ve found that team members readily share market intelligence, ideas and resources with a real sense of camaraderie. Even Michael, although busy leading the charge and running his own business, has been available and extremely supportive.”
What about the support?
“Excellent in-house and external marketing design resources are available. Most of the support team members wear multiple hats. Agents are largely autonomous, engaging support when needed or employing assistants.”
And the tools?
“The listing materials are powerful and clear, designed to walk clients through every step of the process while making a compelling case for the company. Sotheby’s also provides an exhaustive suite of advertising options directed toward an international luxury clientele, including a number of their own impressive art, auction and real estate publications.”
What has been a surprise?
“The opportunity for synergy between Sotheby’s Auction House and International Realty was an exciting surprise. Last week, we had our first on site visit by curators from the auction house’s watch and print departments, who were available to advise our clients on the potential auction valuations of their collectibles. ”
