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 Derek Linder, a Broker at Nest Realty Wilmington.
Nest Realty: Tell us a bit about yourself! Where are you from? What brought you to Wilmington?
Derek Linder: I moved from Pittsburgh, PA, to Greensboro, NC, in the third grade. In my junior year of high school I visited Wilmington for a cross-country invitational. That was the start of my obsession with Wilmington. I instantly fell in love with the laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural features. I have been here ever since.
NR: How did you get into real estate?
DL: Originally I wanted to design outdoor living areas for homes so I was always fascinated with architecture, the materials used in building a house, and curb appeal. When I graduated with a degree in Strategic Marketing I learned that I could combine my passion for homes and help people navigate the market to make informed purchases. From the outside real estate looks like sales, but really it is one of the largest service industries in the world.
NR: What was your previous career? How has that prepared you for real estate?
DL: It’s always been Real Estate! Before graduating I worked a handful of jobs. While they weren’t at a Fortune 500 company, they taught me invaluable skills such as customer service, steadfastness, and analytical thinking that I strive to showcase as a Broker.
NR: What led you to Nest Realty, as opposed to another brokerage?
DL: Nest embodies creativity and service. When the time came to choose a brokerage, I knew that I wanted to join a company that took a different approach to real estate. They only want full time professionals who are serious about what they do.
NR: What makes you different from other agents? What sets you apart?
DL: While some run away from data, I welcome it with open arms. Understanding trends helps me to make the best suggestions to my clients.
NR: What are five adjectives that describe you?
DL: In no particular order: grounded, diligent, loyal, adaptable, and direct.
NR: Who would be your dream client?
DL: Anyone that wants to experience Wilmington, whether they already live here or want to relocate from another area. The more people that I can show Wilmington off to, the better.
NR: If you had one piece of advice for a first-time home buyer, what would it be?
DL: Make sure your agent really knows you and makes you feel comfortable. They should always be focused on your goals, not the commission check. The process is definitely stressful, but it can be minimized with the right agent.
NR: What is your favorite season in Wilmington?
DL: Summer. Wilmington comes to life. I enjoy the breeze on the beach during the day, and the cool summer nights downtown.
Derek is a Broker with Nest Realty Wilmington. Derek works tirelessly to ensure that his clients receive outstanding customer service, and to showcase everything the Wilmington lifestyle has to offer. To learn more about Derek, visit his agent page.