The first interview of Macdonald Realty’s Top Producer Series features Louise McKnight, founder and leader of the #1 company-wide team, Team McKnight (South Surrey). Louise is a high-touch agent known for her extensive market knowledge and unmatched devotion to clients. Read on to learn more about Louise in this intimate interview!
How do you stay motivated in the real estate industry? I am fortunate to work with an amazing team. We continue to inspire and motivate one another. Each team member brings a different perspective to a challenge we may face. The cultural perspective is so crucial. Our team meets on a regular bases but have very regular group communication through WeChat. Personally, I have always found inspiration from reading, listening to podcasts. I spend many hours a week on self-improvement.
Louise’s recommended reads: One Minute Manager (new version) by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson | Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara | The One Minute Millionaire by Victor Hansen and Robert Allan | Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom
Louise’s recommended podcasts: Dr Joe Dispenza | TED Talks Daily | The Positive Mindset Podcast
Real estate can be a competitive industry, and what do you think sets you apart from others? What sets us apart is our diversity. Our team consists of various languages and ethnicities.
In your opinion, what is the most crucial skill or quality for a realtor aiming to become a top producer? A couple of things come to mind. First, having a lot of energy is essential; it’s an industry that requires positive energy and strong work ethic. Second, it’s crucial to follow through on your promises. While there are many other important factors, these are two that stand out.
Apart from professional achievements, how do you maintain a work-life balance in a demanding industry? That can be a challenge but it is so important to make your life a priority, it can’t be all work. I used to be very guilty of that but now prioritize working out and time with family and friends.
What’s the weirdest or funniest request a client has ever made during a transaction? When we were able to ‘double end’, I had a Seller who was selling a $3 million plus home years ago. As you can imagine both the buyer and sellers were grinders. The deal took about a week to put together and it came down to hockey jerseys on the wall. I consider both parties friends to this day. A lot of work but a great outcome!
Above: Team McKnight members (from left to right): Ryan Sidhu, Louise McKnight, Leslie Zhao, Elaine Zhou, Mary Lynn Ghinzel, Shannon Mann.
What advice would you offer to real estate professionals aspiring to break into the luxury market? It’s about connection with your community. Obviously giving back must come from the heart but once you are familiar in the community people begin to know you and trust you.
What drew you to join Macdonald Realty, and how has the brokerage supported your growth as a realtor? My story is a little different because Macdonald Realty purchased my company Bay Realty. It has been almost five years and I feel very connected to the individuals at Macdonald Realty. I do recommend Macdonald Realty very frequently. They are doing a lot of things right!
What is your favourite part and hardest part about being a realtor? My favourite part is helping my clients sell or buy their homes. I feel exceptionally grateful to be included in people’s lives; I consider it an honour. However, the hardest part is when clients are disappointed. This can happen for various reasons, such as when a client wants/needs their home to sell, and it doesn’t, or when a buyer has their heart set on a particular home, but it doesn’t work out for one reason or another. It is absolutely an emotional roller coaster and I love it!
Click here to learn more about Louise and Team McKnight.
Interested in joining Macdonald Realty? Connect with one of our Managing Brokers here.
