Informational Interview

Interview with Brent Sarabian
Real Estate Agent London Properties
By: Gilda Lewis

I conducted my interview with Brent Sarabian, who is a first year real estate agent at London Properties. Brent has attended Fresno State and is now using the resources he learned from the University and his family's real estate background to pursue his goals for his business future. Brent is also the manager of the See's Candy store in Riverpark. 

How did you get started in this field?
A: "As I was growing up I got interested in real estate because my mom was is a real estate agent. When I was young I used to go to open houses with her and I was fascinated by the different properties she would show. So when I became the appropriate age I began studying to become an agent and begin my own career as a real estate agent."

Was it difficult to become a real estate agent?
A: "It was difficult to become an agent, especially at a young age because it takes a lot of work to get your real estate license, a lot more work then I thought. I took many classes at night to prepare myself for the test to become an agent. I was in school at the time so trying to study for my college classes and my real estate test was very difficult. I had to go through the workbook many times in order to be fully confident in my ability to pass the test but i was lucky to have many family members and friends who went through the same experiences I was going through. I definitely asked them a lot of questions, and they helped out a lot."


Was it difficult to find a job?
A: "Being a young agent has its share of challenges, especially in a struggling housing market. Not many agencies are hiring because quite frankly, the economy has put a dent on the market so jobs are difficult to come by. I recommend putting yourself out there and try to make as many contacts as possible, also to be confident in your ability to be a good agent, because if you think you are capable of doing a good job you will be successful." 

Are people more reluctant to buy or sell a house through you since you don't have as much experience as most other agents?
A: "No, because I feel that if you know your stuff and do your homework people will want to work with you. I try to go the extra mile with my clients and make sure we are on the same page at all times. If you are professional with your clients they shouldn't have a problem with your age. Or at least in my experience, thus far."

What kind of personality or skills is needed to be a successful agent?
A: "You need to be a very personable person to succeed in real estate. You have to work with people all day long so having a good personality is definitely a plus. Also, be willing to work with lots of different types of people because you never know who your next client will be. You also have to be a hard worker because this job is very demanding. you must be prepared to work seven days a week because you never know when you will be called upon.


"Do you plan on entering any other branches of real estate?
A: "I would like to begin investing in residential property and land. I work with a lot of people who invest and the process is really rewarding. But I think that is still done the road a ways."

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
A: "The thrill of the sale is the most rewarding part. There is nothing like the rush you get when the deal is final and you know you did your best. Seeing how excited the buyer and seller gets when it's all over is awesome. The pay day isn't bad either."

Any other words of advice for future agents?
A: "Have fun and always be excited about your work. And try your best always."