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Broker Profile: Paul Ribeau

1. Which brokerage are you from?
Stonemill Realty Inc.

2. How long have you been in the industry?
I was licensed in December of 1986. The Stonemill Realty Brokerage was set up in March 1999.

3. Why did you go into real estate?
I was going to be a lawyer. I had to pay my way through University of Toronto by selling real estate. Real estate sales allowed me the flexibility to go to school and pick my hours of work. I sold 27 ends in 1987 as a rookie.

4. What is the hardest part about being a real estate agent/broker?
Self discipline and motivation to keep the required spirit to do well in sales.

5. What is the best piece of advice you can give a newbie agent?
It’s not the company that makes you. It’s you that makes the company. Know your product well then find the clients for it.

6. Tell us about your first sale (details and how it made you feel).
It’s ok to make mistakes. My very first sale came from a lead off of my card being stapled to a real estate newspaper in Etobicoke. A young couple called me and wanted to buy a home in Milton. I didn’t know Milton existed and set up 10 showings in Malton. On the way to Malton with the clients in my fully financed BMW 530i they told me, “You’re heading in the wrong direction.” I felt so embarrassed but we all had a good laugh and I rescheduled for the next day to show properties in Milton. I showed them 10 homes and they bought the very first home I showed them. I listed and sold their Etobicoke home three days later.

7. What are three things an agent needs to be successful?

• Persistence. If you are not failing then you are not trying hard enough.
• Know your product. List the homes that are available and were sold recently and then make a list of people you know that would be perfect for that home.
• Make the call. Pick up the phone and let people know you're thinking of them. Example: “I found a property with four bedrooms close to your wife’s work. The home would be perfect for your family and your wife could be closer to work and children. Have a look and consider the move.” This shows you care and it goes a long way.

8. What is your motto in business?
Don’t do it for the money. Do it to help people and you will be successful.

9. What is an agent’s greatest asset?
Be professional and courteous. Do what’s right for your client even if it means you blow a deal.

10. What are some common mistakes Realtors make and what can be done to avoid these?

• Waiting for the phone to ring instead of making calls.
• Blaming the economy or others for lack of success.
• Don’t do it for the money only, do it for your client.
• Never take a failed attempt to a sale as a personal flaw. Keep trying until the deal comes together. If you know your product and match it up to people you know it’s a win-win situation. You know it’s a good deal when all parties are smiling at the table. Do good for your clients and referral business will grow.

If you are a broker/managing broker and are interested in being featured, please contact communications@omdreb.on.ca for more information.

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