For the past 13 years, Margaret A. Bzdewka of RE/MAX Innovations has become one of her area’s leading real estate professionals. Within her Long Island community of Wantagh, Margaret has received several honors and recognitions for her hard work and determined business style. In 2002 she was nominated by her peers to the Most Referred Real Estate network based on dedicated client service, honesty, and integrity and market knowledge. In 2006 Margaret had a chapter published in “Inside the Minds of Real Estate Leadership Strategies,” and in 2007 she was inducted into the “100% Club.” Most recently in 2008, Margaret was also honored as a member of the “Executive’s Club” for exemplary sales and service.
Margaret’s achievements and accolades are the products of hard work and determination, something that has set this Long Island agent apart from her competition for the past decade. Margaret’s training in her field includes being an Accredited Buyer’s Agent, an Accredited Home-Staging Specialist, an E-Pro professional, a graduate of the Realtor Association, which required 90 hours of State approved classes. She was a coaching client for the Real Estate Champions for the past 2 years. Recently, she completed her Certified Distressed Property Designation, in order to service her clients that are experiencing financial hardship due to the current economic conditions. She is also an active member of the National Association of BPO Professionals-NABPOP. Margaret’s achievements and honors are not the sole reason why thousands of people have chosen Margaret Bzdewka to be their real estate professional; Margaret has reached this exalted pointed in her career through her care and compassion. In her own words, "I treat every client and their home as if it were my own".
Why did you choose to pursue a career in real estate? I was not impressed with the caliber of the average agent. I thought handling someone’s biggest asset should require a higher level of education and commitment.. I expected more from them. I felt I could make a difference in the industry. I am able to grow my business by learning and doing, as well as take my career to a higher level. There’s so much to learn when you are a business owner.
What is your favorite part of being a real estate agent? The success of meeting my client’s expectations and goals is so gratifying. I love when they keep in touch and let me know what’s new and exciting in their lives. I believe a home creates a sanctuary. It’s a place we should look forward to going to. I am so happy that I am able to create this for the lives I am able to touch. I appreciate the value and trust my clients have in me.
In your opinion, what is the most challenging part of buying or selling in this ever-changing market? I think staying on top of the inventory and trends in the area are essential. Establishing a fair price in the market is the secret to a successful sale. The ability to create a sense of confidence and credibility with our clients must be earned. It is our duty to be knowledgeable in pricing, marketing and negotiations.
What is the most important thing a first-time homebuyer should do? A first time homebuyer needs to work with an agent that has skills and experience as a
Buyer’s agent. They will be given the knowledge, choices and recommendations that they need to make an intelligent decision. They need to be comfortable with the personality of the agent they selected.
Why do you call this area home? This is the only area I know. I was raised in Merrick. I attended Cure’ of Ars and Maria Regina Diocesan HS in Uniondale. After graduating from St. John's University, I got married and lived in Bayside, Queens for 10 years. I returned to Massapequa with my husband and 2 children. I thought it was important for my children to be raised in the area I grew up. It took my husband, who was from Queens, 10 years to agree with me. Now you would never get him to leave!
Do you and your family have favorite local attractions or activities that you would like to recommend to others? My favorite beach in the area is Robert Moses. It is secluded and beautiful and worth the 15 minute drive past Jones Beach. Going out east to wineries and farm stands is also a great way to spend the day. There are quaint little towns to wander around on the way.
My favorite place to go out to dinner is “Bellissimo” in Amityville. The food and service is wonderful! The Tuscany décor is warm and inviting and creates the perfect ambiance.
Why should one relocate to this area? The Long Island area has such a variety of choices that everyone’s interests are served.
You have access to beaches, New York City, Broadway shows, wineries, the mountains in the upstate NY area and loads of shopping. Of course, most people are attracted to the water activities the area provides. You can do as much or as little as you want. In the summertime, several towns provide free concerts. There are plenty of parks, sports, and family oriented activities.
In your view, how are conditions in your area’s market? Since a majority of the residents in our area are employed by Wall Street firms and banks, there is a concern about stability in jobs and the housing market. I still believe a house is the best investment to make. However, I do feel a need to pay attention to what the market is telling us. We need to be more conservative on the debt we are incurring as an individual. Patience is a virtue. We need to go back to the thinking of our parent’s generation where you had the money BEFORE you made an impulsive purchase. I think now we realize that we need to take less risk and think about what our priorities are.
What qualities should a good agent possess? How do you exemplify any or all of these qualities? A good agent needs to be constantly learning. In this business you can never say you know it all. Keeping up with the demands and needs of the people we serve should be a priority. I also think it is imperative to listen to what are clients are telling us. We need to be sensitive to the issues and concerns that are important to them. We are not just selling houses. We are providing our clients with a lifestyle that best suits their needs.
What sets you apart from your competition? It’s important to me that I act in my client’s best interest. It’s not all about me.
My commitment is to provide my clients with the service, technology, and knowledge that enables them to make the best choices for their goals.
