Real Estate Collaboration in Creemore
Moving to the country has been one of the best choices I’ve ever made. I have loved embracing the Creemore community, which made me feel at home almost immediately. Soon after moving, I met another Sotheby’s International Realty Canada agent in the area, Katrina Ellison. Katrina and I hit it off so much that we have decided to collaborate to bring clients the best local knowledge for their move to the country life. Katrina and I did an interview to shed some light on our partnership, as well as share some of our thoughts on one of the hottest real estate markets around. Enjoy!
First a little bit about Katrina…
Katrina, tell us about your career in real estate:
I’ve had the pleasure of being a realtor since 2009. My first experience was with Century 21, followed by RE/MAX. Five years ago I started with Sotheby’s in Creemore.
Why is the market in this area so hot?
Things have been exploding across Simcoe County, Dufferin County and Grey County! All three counties are fast growing areas for both full time and recreational living. The opportunities to live an active life and explore nature are amazing. It has been great to see this continued growth.
What are features that buyers are looking for when considering a country home in and around Creemore?
My clients are usually looking for features like increased acreage, privacy, ponds, or water access. The types of homes vary from estate properties to town house options, either far out in the country, or closer to amenities like ski hills and golf courses. We’ve got something for everyone here.
What is your favourite part of being a real estate agent?
Well, originally I didn't want a 9-5 job. However, I’ve learned that to be a real estate agent is a 24/7 job, but I wouldn't change it for anything! I love what I do, I get to meet interesting people, and everyday is something different.
What does Country Living mean to you? What is your favourite part about being a Creemore resident?
I love the country roads, rolling hills and scenery– no traffic is a bonus! My favourite part about being in Creemore is the small town with a big heart. Creemore is a great community.
And now, an interview on our collaboration…
What do you hope to achieve as partners in real estate?
Val: I’m looking forward to building a strong partnership together and to working with our past, current, and new clients together. I want to make the real estate experience with our clients transparent, non-stressful, and fun.
Katrina: Agreed!
What advantages and skills do you both bring to the table?
K: I live in Creemore and Val lives in Dunedin, so we both have local exposure, which is enhanced by Sotheby's fantastic brand recognition and exceptional marketing. I also have the experience of someone who has lived in Creemore for a number of years, while Val brings a new perspective of someone who has transitioned from the city to the country.
V: What she said...I think my passion and excitement around living out this way is a great marketing tool for people moving out of the city. Moving to the country has been a game changer for me, my daughter, and my circus of pets!
Why do you work well together?
K: We both have a friendly, outgoing personality– we’re both easy going but yet business-minded and get the job done.
V: We have fun doing this. Going to see so many amazing properties, unique homes, and meeting new clients is great, but doing it with Katrina makes it fun as well.
Active in the community, you both recently contributed to a Mother’s Day feature at Creemore’s Chez Michel, and Val, you hosted a wine give away for a tapas dinner through Quince Bistro. Why do you feel it is important to work with local restaurants and businesses?
V: I have so much respect for these companies that struggled through the challenges of COVID. Katrina and I talked about it and decided we wanted to support as many community businesses and initiatives as we could. Quince and Chez Michel are also two of my favourite places to eat in the area!
Finally, is there anything else you would like to highlight?
K: We look forward to our new partnership and the future business and friendships we build together!
V: We will always go above and beyond in the services we offer our clients. It is that hands-on approach that makes our partnership really special.