Five Questions with Real Estate Broker Heather Ouderkirk

Interview and Photo by Jason Setnyk

Cornwall, Ontario – Heather Ouderkirk, a familiar face in the Cornwall community, is making waves in the real estate industry by upgrading her credentials from a Sales Representative to a Real Estate Broker. Born and raised in Cornwall, Ouderkirk’s journey from her early years of active participation in reading and writing workshops, spelling bees, and public speaking events to becoming a prominent figure in the local real estate scene is a testament to her dedication and passion.

With a background in Business Administration and more than a decade of experience in waitressing, Ouderkirk embarked on her real estate journey in 2018. Joining forces with The Kovinich Group, a highly respected real estate agency with deep roots in the Cornwall and SDG area, Ouderkirk quickly proved her mettle in the industry. The Kovinich Group, known for its responsive professionals and commitment to excellent service, has garnered a reputation for simplifying the intricate process of buying and selling properties.

Re/Max, the renowned global real estate company operating in over 110 countries, has recognized The Kovinich Group’s achievements, awarding them the prestigious Diamond Club status. The iconic Re/Max hot air balloon logo symbolizes the company’s mission to elevate individuals and communities through real estate opportunities. Over the years, Re/Max has built a strong reputation for its exceptional services to both buyers and sellers.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Ouderkirk remains deeply engaged with her community. Re/Max is known for its active support to local charities. Ouderkirk continues to uphold this tradition by contributing her time and resources to causes close to her heart, like the recent Community BBQ benefiting CHEO.

For those seeking expert guidance in real estate matters, Heather Ouderkirk is a name that stands out. Her extensive experience and commitment to delivering exceptional service have made her a trusted figure in the industry. Her contact information is as follows: Heather can be reached at her business phone number, 613.861.2607, and through her professional email address, [email protected]. The Kovinich Group’s business address is conveniently located at 649 Second St E in Cornwall for in-person consultations or meetings.

Additionally, her online presence is marked by two informative websites, thekovinichgroup.com and remaxmarquis.ca, which offer insights into her expertise and the services provided by The Kovinich Group and Re/Max. For the latest updates, she can also be followed on social media at @heather.kg.remax on Facebook and Instagram.

Five Questions with The Seeker

1 – What is your background and how you became a real estate agent?

“My journey into the real estate industry began with a desire for a career change after spending over a decade waitressing while holding other 9-5 jobs during the week. A friend suggested we take the real estate course together, which sparked my interest. Shortly after becoming licensed, I joined the Kovinich Group, a dynamic team consisting of 3 intelligent, supportive, and strong women. I’m thrilled to say that I’m still a part of this amazing team, which now includes five licensed agents and one licensed assistant.”

2 – How do you build and maintain client relationships to ensure repeat business and referrals?

“Building and maintaining strong relationships with real estate clients depends on effective communication, trust, and top-notch service. Active listening to understand their needs, consistent follow-ups, and providing valuable insights are essential. Regular updates on market trends and offering post-sale support to clients. Delivering exceptional experiences ensures satisfied clients, leading to repeat business and referrals.”

3 – How do you stay informed and up-to-date on the latest trends and changes in the real estate market?

“The Real Estate market is constantly evolving, so staying up to date is crucial. I like to stay informed by actively seeking diverse perspectives and insights, considering various viewpoints, and drawing conclusions based on my personal experiences and the valuable experiences shared within my network. I like to attend industry seminars, conferences, and webinars. I frequently engage in continuing education courses, listen to podcasts and follow monthly reports from my service areas. Since real estate is highly localized, I focus on our specific niche while keeping a close eye on broader nationwide trends.”

4 – How do you ensure clients have a positive and stress-free experience throughout the buying or selling process?

“A positive and stress free experience for clients involves many key factors. Clear and open communication establishes trust and keeps clients informed at every stage of the buying or selling process. I can customize my approach to meet their expectations by actively listening to their needs and concerns. Expert guidance and support, paired with proactive problem-solving, help to address any challenges that may arise. Ultimately, attention to detail and prioritizing customer satisfaction leads to a smooth and enjoyable transaction.”

5 – Can you discuss any unique strategies or approaches you use to market and sell properties?

“My unique strategies for marketing and selling properties involve a strong social media presence and using various platforms to reach a broader audience. I conduct in-depth research on algorithms to optimize exposure. My listings feature professional photos and creative videos to showcase key features. Public Open Houses and internal networking are essential components. Additionally, ‘Broker Open Houses’ are a successful practice which enables other agents to preview upcoming listings for their clients.”