Alec Smith entered the real estate business directly out of college, after interning with a Top Producing Agent in Jacksonville, Florida. Alec then joined a small reputable brokerage in Downtown Beaufort where he learned the ropes with the help of his Broker. Alec made the jump to Charter One Realty last month and is already seeing success in the business.
Charter One Realty sat down with Alec to learn more about how he got his start and some of his favorite aspects of life in the Lowcountry.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career in real estate?
Alec Smith: I knew I wanted to pursue a career in real estate after completing a summer internship in college. I was fortunate enough to get a better understanding of the Sales Process while interning for my Aunt in Jacksonville, Florida. She has been a Top Producer for over 10 years.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: Tell us about your start in the business. How did the first year go?
Alec Smith: I started at a smaller firm in downtown Beaufort my first year. It was a reputable company that provided me with strong training and resources. I struggled at first but quickly gained some momentum with the help of my Broker.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: What’s kept you in the business after your initial success?
Alec Smith: The joy I saw when I was able to help a first-time buyer or the thrill of helping a client buy their forever home.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: What’s one common mistake you see prospective buyers make?
Alec Smith: I think some buyers need to have a proper budget in place and realistic expectations on what their budget can afford in our market.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: How has technology changed the industry, and what does it mean for buyers?
Alec Smith: The buying process has become much easier via marketing on certain third-party websites. Buyers can simply "shop" online for homes and then reach out to a qualified and licensed Real Estate Professional.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: If you weren't working in real estate, is there anything else you could see yourself doing?
Alec Smith: Possibly, the American Dream is alive and well. Part of the American Dream is to own a home. The other part is to have the courage and tenacity to start your own business. I have given some thought to owning a business of some kind.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: Where are you from originally, and how did you come to live in the Lowcountry?
Alec Smith: I am originally from New York City. By the time high school came around, I was fortunate enough to attend a boarding school in Virginia. With family all over the South, my love for culture grew, even more, when I attended the College of Charleston. Soon after my parents moved to Georgetown, SC. My Uncle had lived in Beaufort, SC for years. Upon visiting, I was eager to move and call Beaufort home.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: Please tell us about your neighborhood and your home.
Alec Smith: I live in Royal Pines, a golf community on Ladys Island. We picked that area as we have friends also in the community, but it was the perfect spot to raise a family. My son can still play in the street with his friends, and that is something special to see after growing up in New York City.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: Can you tell us why your community is so special to you?
Alec Smith: The family atmosphere and feeling of security in our neighborhood.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: What are your favorite shops and restaurants in our community and why?
Alec Smith: Baystreet Outfitters is probably my favorite shop in Beaufort as I have a passion for fishing. My favorite restaurant is Breakwater, by far. The menu is ever-changing, and the food is incredible.
CHARTER ONE REALTY: DO YOU HAVE A PERSONAL MOTTO OR MANTRA THAT GUIDES YOU?
Alec Smith: "Never, never, never, never give up." - Winston Churchill
CHARTER ONE REALTY: PLEASE COMPLETE THE SENTENCE: “HOME WOULDN’T BE HOME WITHOUT . . .”
Alec Smith: My family and the friends I've made through the years.
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