Top real estate broker and founder of Asknina.com, Nina Asusa is a force to be reckoned with, with over a decade of experience as a real estate professional. She loves the rush of a negotiation, has a penchant for older homes and historic neighbourhoods, and above all, has found her passion in helping people. From assisting
her clients in finding their dream home and neighbourhood, to getting invited to client weddings, Nina is more than just a realtor and broker; she’s a loyal friend.

We asked Nina a few questions about her real estate journey, including what she loves most about being a professional realtor and why building relationships with her clients is of utmost importance to her. Interested in hearing more about this real estate dynamo?
Check out our up close and personal interview with Nina Asusa.

1. How did you get started in real estate?

“I gained experience buying homes, living in them while renovating, and then selling them for a good profit. Although I was good at it and enjoyed it, it was really after selling a few homes that I realized what my real passion was: My passion was, and will always be, people.”

2. What are the top 3 things you love about being a professional realtor?

“Above all, it’s people and their dreams, which translates to homes. As our team motto so vividly describes it, every home is unique, every homeowner is unique, and they deserve more.

Really, every client deserves the best. I love helping people achieve their dreams. I’m very fortunate because I can truly say I love what I do.

I also love the adventure each day brings. Some days are fast paced and exciting because there’s so much riding on the outcome of a negotiation. Other days are calmer, yet still challenging. I love the thrill of a challenge. It motivates me to try harder.

I love creating a story for each home I sell and highlighting the dream of living in that neighbourhood. It’s way more than selling homes; it’s selling lifestyles, selling dreams. After all, where you buy your next home will be determined in a big way by the lifestyle you want.”

3. You have over a decade of experience as a top real estate agent, and more recently as a broker. What has this experience taught you that you want to bring
to your own team?

“The last 13 years have taught me a lot. I think in terms of families, not transactions. No one likes to be treated like a number. From day one in real estate, I decided each one of my clients would feel special....all the time.

I teach my team that they MUST at all times, put their clients first. Not because we are required to by some book of law or a written code of ethics, but because it simply is the right thing to do. That has to come naturally, from a moral code written within.

Above all else, those families who choose to work with me come first.”

4. What draws you in to older communities? What do you love about older homes
and historic neighbourhoods?

“I love older communities because they have a special romance that many new areas don’t have. Many older homes have elegance, charm, tall ceilings and fabulous large lots.

I know old homes. My first old home was built in 1860. Great home. My second old home (where I currently reside) is from 1946. Although some have challenges (every home can have challenges, even brand new homes), older homes were, in my opinion, built to last.  

That’s why so many savvy buyers like older homes. Older communities don’t have much turnover, older communities exude real pride of ownership.” 

5. Why is building a relationship with your clients so important/special to you?

“In my business, there is nothing more important than my relationship with my clients. Those relationships are built on trust, open communication and give and take, just like in a marriage. You end up being a part of a big life decision. It’s so wonderful when my clients are happy! Their happiness is by far, my biggest reward.”

6. How do you know when you’ve built trust with a client? Are there any examples
you can tell us about that showcase client trust?

“When they call me for advice. Also, when they confide in me. I feel so honoured when they feel comfortable enough to tell me their inner fears or some of the things they’re going through. I highly value confidentiality and always respect their privacy. I could never betray their trust.

Every year, several of my clients invite me to family events. I’ve even been invited to two weddings. I have clients that have become friends. They’ll invite me over for a glass of wine, out for dinner or just for some take out for a night in. It’s so cool how many of them have become part of my life. I’m blessed beyond compare.

One example of this is a couple I met many years back at an open house. Three years went by and then they called me to discuss the need for downsizing into a bungalow. After a couple of meetings, they were proud owners of a beautiful 2-bedroom bungalow on a peaceful ravine. About 1 year later, I helped their elderly mom sell her home and even negotiated with her and the children at the Senior’s centre. It was such a lovely,
heartwarming experience to see a whole family pooling together to help mom. At the same time, I helped their 2 daughters and their boyfriends purchase their first homes in the same area. Come to think of it, that’s really 3 generations, and with 2 babies on the way, that could be 4 generations one day.

This long-term relationship that stands the test of time is what I’m talking about. This is why I love what I do and feel blessed by those who put their faith and trust in me. I will be forever loyal to my clients and thankful many of them have considered me worthy of their friendship.