What made you want to become a real estate agent?
After the 2000 dot com collapse, I took some time to really figure out what I wanted for myself in a career. My father encouraged me to pursue real estate. He knew I was good at maintaining relationships, which meant I would be well-suited for the real estate business since it’s so relationship driven.
What is your favorite thing about being a real estate agent?
Being able to work with my friends and getting to know new clients.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to buy/sell a home?
Get a realtor. Everybody wants to start looking at homes right away, but there are steps you should take before you start walking through doors. The last thing you want to do is fall in love with a house before you’re ready to make an offer.
Which part of the buying/selling process excites you the most, why?
I like the negotiations. They’re fun because you have two parties who want the same thing and it’s just a matter of guiding them to a point where everyone is happy.
What characteristic makes you a great agent?
I am able to stay calm and explain things in a clear way to people who become emotional during what can be a very emotional process.
What is your favorite thing to do in Richmond?
Biking or doing anything down by the river, but that was before I had kids. Now my favorite is just whatever makes the kids giggle.
What are you typically doing when you aren’t working?
Playing with my kids.
How long have you been a Realtor?
18 years, since 2002.
What is the first thing that catches your eye when you walk into a home?
Lighting. Natural light mostly. If there’s not a lot of natural lighting, then how does the built in lighting look? Lighting is everything. It can make a room feel big or small.
What is something your clients can expect when they work with you?
I will always get them the answer, whether I know it or have to go look for it. I want them to have an informed process because it’s their process and I’m there as a guide.
What did you do before you became a Realtor?
I previously worked for a dot com company. Before that I was in state politics. As a result, I am very active in RAR’s Legislative Committee and RPAC. I love helping advocate for real estate related issues like housing policy, property taxes, and zoning.
How has the pandemic changed the way you work with clients?
I take all Covid precautions when showing homes. Covid made the seller’s market more intense but we’re still able to manage in-person showings and meetings.
To learn more about Jason Saunders, visit his Agent Bio Page.