Anna Kilinski is the listing specialist/CEO of Anna K Intown, Inc with Keller Williams Realty Intown
What was your first job in the realty industry? This question brings me back :). I started as a project manager for a small local builder in Cabbagetown and Reynoldstown. I learned about construction, and how homes were built. I started selling them to buyers at the same time all of my peers were wanting to buy their first home, so I jumped on the customer service wagon for in-town Atlanta real estate! I was thrilled to be their agent.
Where did you grow up? I’m originally from New Orleans, which means I have a deep love for historic architecture and well-built homes.
Growing up, what did you want to be? I actually swore I would never get into real estate (as it was the family business) as a kid, but sure enough, turns out I really enjoy it! I think I wanted to be a psychiatrist, so I may not be that far off, as real estate industry can be quite emotional for many of our clients; so, I enjoy helping them through the ebbs and flow.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Run, hike and sip wine! Or, I work a little more, as when I get stuff off of my plate, I feel more relaxed.
What do you love most about the industry? How incredibly dynamic the professionals are and how no day is ever the same. It keeps me on my toes and I love it. I also love the sense of satisfaction that comes with helping my clients problem solve.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? Our unique value proposition is our level of customer service, and netting more money in less time than the typical agent. We are buyer and listing specialists, so we are not wearing a million hats all at once; it allows us to serve our clients more appropriately.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Turning away opportunity. There are some buyers and sellers who have expectations we cannot meet (for instance, wanting to price the house too high, or not willing to do what it takes to achieve desirable results, or a buyer who wants a deal that doesn’t exist), and we make the decision to not work with them, as it pains me to set them set up for failure when I could have helped them succeed.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I started a neighborhood running club in Candler Park and Lake Claire. It is awesome, because I get do to what I love and meet new neighbors in an area I specialize in.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? I think growing my business such that I have created opportunities for other people on my team to have a life they deserve and one that is worth living. This is truly rewarding.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I’m sort of a business book nerd, and am just finishing “The 4 Disciplines of Execution.” This couldn’t be more powerful with where our business is today, as we have great ideas that we fail to execute by lack of planning or getting caught in the whirlwind, and this book will help you identify and implement your “wildly important goals.”
What is your favorite restaurant? Rathbun’s Steak. Hands down.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? The Ponce: Built in 1914, it’s one of the most beautiful buildings with its original terra cotta. I also got engaged on top of this building, as my husband knew the love I have for it.
What kind of car do you drive? A Lexus SUV.
Smartphone or paper? Both.
What is your favorite city after Atlanta? New Orleans (but I have to say it may be a tie).
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Start with the end in mind. You are running a business.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Dropbox/Evernote.
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? Anything Atlanta development related.
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