We’re proud of the team of agents we’ve assembled here at Nest Realty. We think they’re pretty awesome, and we think you will too. During our “Meet the Agent” series, we sit down with our agents to learn more about them, what makes them tick, and why they’re passionate about the real estate industry. In this installment, we chat with Aryn Baker, a Realtor at 501 Nest Realty in Durham.
Nest Realty: Tell us a bit about yourself! Where are you from? What brought you to Raleigh-Durham?
Aryn Baker: I grew up in Raleigh. When I was graduating from college, I looked up the best places to live and Raleigh-Durham kept appearing on every list I found, so I moved back home. I met my husband a couple of years later. He’s a native to the Triangle, born and raised, so it wasn’t difficult to convince him that this is where we should stay.
NR: How did you get into real estate?
AB: I actually started as a home stager. I have been working as a stager for a few years now and love the process of helping homeowners prepare their houses for market. Sometimes, though, I wanted to be able to do more for them. Being a real estate agent allows me to help homeowners with the process from start to finish!
NR: What was your previous career? How has that prepared you for real estate?
AB: Well, home staging has prepared me quite a bit. Through the years I have learned a lot about how to best show a home. Beyond that, though, I’ve learned about the process, due diligence, and how to handle any hiccups that may come along. Possibly one of the best things, aside from knowing the process well, is that I have a wonderful team of vendors I already work well with.
NR: What led you to Nest Realty, as opposed to another brokerage?
AB: I mean, who wouldn’t want to work with Nest Realty? I love the focus on client experience. There is a wonderful collaborative nature within the firm. Plus, their expertise in the Durham market is unparalleled.
NR: What is your favorite part of being an agent?
AB: Helping people! It truly makes me happy to help others during what can be a stressful (though exciting!) time in their life.
NR: Do you have a specific area of expertise to offer clients?
AB: Definitely the presentation of a listing. That is what I have been doing for years, after all. On the flip side, I can help buyers see the potential in the homes they’re viewing and quickly answer questions about potential updates they may want to do.
NR: What makes you different from other agents? What sets you apart?
AB: My background in psychology. It helps me a lot when it comes to negotiations or working through a difficult transaction. There’s also the fact that I’m a Triangle native. My passion for home and all it has to offer can be infectious.
NR: What are five adjectives that describe you?
AB: Kind, diligent, resourceful, motivated, and intuitive.
NR: Who would be your dream client?
AB: My mom! I just can’t wait for my parents to move back to the Triangle, and it would be so fun to house hunt with her.
NR: If you had one piece of advice for a first-time home buyer, what would it be?
AB: Definitely work with an agent you’re completely comfortable with. The first home purchase is exciting, but can be stressful. You’ll want someone fully in your corner and willing to answer any questions you may have.
NR: What is your favorite season in Durham?
AB: Fall! I love the cooler weather and being able to enjoy the patios at all of the local restaurants and bars. There are also so many fun fall festivals around town!
Aryn is a Realtor with 501 Nest Realty. She grew up in the Triangle and loves to talk about all of the wonderful things it has to offer. To learn more about Aryn, visit her agent page.