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Not many real estate agents can say they’ve hit a billion dollars in sales. But Ginger Martin, a real estate manager at Sotheby’s International Realty, a St. Helena brokerage, boasts sales of more than $3 billion and counting.
Named one of the top 100 agents in the United States from 2010 to 2022 Real trends verifiedMartin’s success in local markets in Napa and Sonoma wine country has made her a role model and inspiration for women in the business world.
How did she do it? “For those aspiring to build a career in luxury real estate, remember that your brand, passion and ethics are your greatest assets,” she said. “This field is fiercely competitive, but the rewards are great. Pursue excellence, maintain integrity, and be prepared to work hard.”
As a mentor, Martin shares her story of how she cemented her place in the high-stakes world of luxury real estate and offers advice on how agents can get started, gain momentum, and exceed their potential.
Benefits of working with well-known brands
Ginger Martin – Sotheby’s International Realty – St. Helena Brokerage
When Martin first entered the industry in 1996, luxury real estate was an extremely male-dominated field – and in many markets, this remains the case. To overcome this obstacle, she knew she had to be the best. “I focused on building a reputation for reliability, excellent service and in-depth market knowledge, which ultimately solidified my position in the industry,” she recalls.
To this end, the partnership with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand proved crucial. Martin has access to a comprehensive training program, global real estate insights and leadership development opportunities, allowing Martin and her colleagues to stay at the forefront of the industry. “These resources have been critical in defining my approach, expanding my expertise, and enhancing my ability to provide the highest level of service to my clients,” she said.
“The tools and platform provided by Sotheby’s International Realty have also been instrumental in my career,” continued Martin. “Cutting-edge technology and marketing resources allow me to enhance my services, reach international clients and showcase properties in an unparalleled manner. This support enhances my ability to connect buyers and sellers and cultivates a community among agents worldwide Awareness and a sense of collaboration.”
New perspectives bring new opportunities
Ginger Martin – Sotheby’s International Realty – St. Helena Brokerage
How does a luxury real estate agent stand out when everyone is giving it their all? For her part, Martin brings two decades of business acumen as CEO of her own fashion industry marketing and sales company.
“After selling my company and briefly retiring from a successful career, I found myself seeking a new challenge—and my husband suggested I go back to work before I drove him crazy,” she laughs. “That’s when I had the opportunity to open the first Sotheby’s International Realty brokerage in San Francisco with four close colleagues. ”
Martin quickly realized that based on her existing experience, she could bring something unique to Sotheby’s International Realty. “This opportunity not only aligns with my entrepreneurial spirit but also allows me to use my keen eye for design and detail in a new area.”
In 1996, she was hired by Sotheby’s International Realty as a founding partner of the San Francisco brokerage firm, and soon after, she was ranked among the top 1% of Sotheby’s International Realty brokers worldwide. The lesson, Martin said, is “remember that a strong work ethic combined with your unique perspective and approach will determine your success.”
Your network of colleagues and mentors is important
Ginger Martin – Sotheby’s International Realty – St. Helena Brokerage
Martin noted that maintaining a strong network is critical to staying nimble and strong in the real estate market, especially during economic downturns.
“It’s crucial to stay adaptable and constantly learn about the latest market trends,” she said. “My advice to anyone considering a career in luxury real estate is to embrace resilience, understand your market, and develop a strong network.”
Success is a gift best shared
Ginger Martin – Sotheby’s International Realty – St. Helena Brokerage
Among her many accomplishments, Martin is particularly proud of the rapport she has built with her clients over the years and the resulting repeat business and referral business. But she is equally proud to be a patron of the arts and an advocate for social and humanitarian causes, and actively supports more than a dozen charities and non-profit organizations.
“Building a career at Sotheby’s International Realty is about more than just selling properties. It’s about building lasting relationships and creating value that goes beyond the transaction,” she said.
“The journey is as valuable as what you do. Embrace every learning opportunity, stay true to your values, and commit to making a positive impact on your clients’ lives.”
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