6 minute read

Elena Ladmirault

Our Realtor for 337

As we take the next step in this Innovators issue to our “ Home” section, we start the journey visiting a truly magical soulElena Ladmirault. In the industry of realestate and the set steps of home buying, we are met with an unmatched energy that is setting a new standard in helping her clients dreams come true Her approach is formed from her heart and soul with a plan to “gift” this life-changing experience for her clients. Through devoted time, research into her business, Elena has found a way to Innovate in a field that has been set in stone.

A new look into real estate agents reveal they aren’t all just in it for sales.

Roughly 10 years ago, Elena Ladmirault began her real estate journey, but it was roughly 5 years ago that her spiritual journey began. She has a beautiful connection to her faith and works to bring that connection with her in her work. It serves more as her guide in her day and that reflects in her actions and approach to this career.

To simply put it, she sought to help her clients but knew she had to help herself first, starting with her daily routine There is truth behind the over-used advice, as cliché as it sounds.

Immediately after waking up, she takes a moment to check-in with herself, actively thinking about how she is feeling both physically and mentally to assess what is needed for the day. Once she is out of bed, she will begin meditation, often thinking of past, present and future clients Sometimes yoga follows, usually the best of days for her, to check off all the self-care boxes. As she works within her faith and selfcare it adds a sprinkle of fairy dust to her ability to connect with her clients

Elena is notably sensitive to people’s needs and their varying ways of thinking. For her, problem-solving comes naturally, making clients feel more comfortable This unique ability she has to observe and adjust to what her clients’ emotional needs are caters to the home buying process in the most sincere way.

The call to real estate seemed like an almost natural path for Elena. Seeking to avoid the restraints of the corporate world but wanting to connect with others, Elena turned towards real estate. Licensed since late 2013, she has had much experience in the industry. Acknowledging that the business is about connection and building relationships, Elena was thrilled to become an agent She noted a natural desire to get to know people, as humans are naturally social beings.

“I don’t expect anyone to trust anyone off the bat,” Elena said Applying to both other workers in the industry as well as clients, Elena feels this is one of the main reasons connection and communication is key.

“Every dollar counts,” Elena emphasized. “It’s not just a sale, it’s someone’s home.” For Elena, real estate is about fitting a home to a person She approaches each task based on a client’s needs and wants.

Getting to know a client outside of their wants in a house proves to be beneficial when Elena sees the smiles on their faces “I can walk into a house and it hits me,” Elena said, imagining that smile. “I just know it's for them.”

Being used to the constant change in real estate, Elena is used to pivoting direction when a client changes their mind or if a deal falls through.

Elena explained that sympathy is often needed in the job. She may often see houses not close, but many people aren’t used to that heartbreak. She noted that she has to “hold it together for them” in a supportive manner In the business of homes it is important to always care for clients as it is the place where they will host loved ones or the place where they seek comfort after a long day

Elena explained the importance of going at the client’s pace, reflecting that she is not pushy when it comes to making a sale. “For me it's meeting people where they're at,” Elena said. “Listen to their desire and their goal and let's figure out a game plan and get there.” If something doesn’t work out in the deal she is quick to pivot as it is important to her for the clients to have their perfect home, not just a house.

In recounting each closing table, “It is the most exhilarating feeling,” Elena excitedly expressed. “They always get a gift, but it's always very specific to the person.” She does this to celebrate the client’s milestone and the experiences they shared. Occasionally there are tears, as it can be an emotional time, but Elena is by their side, as she was throughout the process. “I’m gonna do this forever, until I die,” Elena said, letting out a light laugh.

Often her clients will come to mind when meditating in the morning. She explained that they are always at the front of her intentions, always wanting what’s best for them. Only when a client is satisfied, is Elena satisfied.

For many salespersons, it is about numbers rather than people Elena was disheartened when sharing that many people consider real estate agents similar to car salespersons. Elena seeks to ensure, not just to her clients but to anyone she meets, “You are worthy and that is important.” She truly believes that and it flows out of her tenfold. Her connection to the human soul is so grounding and raw, but effortless and relaxing to encounter

Because the process can be nervewracking or anxiety inducing, Elena breaks the process up in “digestible pieces.” She insists the best time for a client to approach her is when they are thinking of changing homes rather than after they have decided. Elena provides her clients with as much knowledge as they need before making any decisions, and she frequently states deciding to wait is a decision itself.

Elena fondly recounts her memories at Sugar Mill Pond Realty, then, Southern Lifestyle Realty, later absorbed by Latter and Blum Each business taught Elena something new. Blum provided a familyoriented experience for Elena, but didn’t suit her preferred inner business model. She has now worked for EXP Realty for three years and explains it as more suitable for her business goals as it is a place for entrepreneurs to grow.

Elena explained the best way to grow a reputation in the industry is by referrals and word of mouth, but both client and builder relationships are essential for growth.

When Elena first began at Sugar Mill Pond Realty, she compared herself to a kid in a candy store. “I was just there to absorb,” Elena said She did just that in attending various open houses and social events as well as sitting in with various architects and builders, truly learning the ins and outs of a home and its amenities.

Shivers Brothers Construction, developer of River Ranch, was building Sugar Mill Pond in Youngsville at this time She described the construction company as a family feel yet the brothers as being polar opposites, one all jokes and the other all business. Elena slowly developed a relationship with the builders, again mentioning the importance of getting to know others. She attended every open house she could, eventually gaining listings from them Elena remarks that she considers herself very blessed to have a trusting relationship with the brothers, creating pride within the agent.

Elena described architecture as an art form, each builder having their own style. “I can walk in a house and probably tell you who built it,” laughed Elena. Humbly, Elena named a couple builders and their preferences to specific trims and styles Elena hopes to never lose her connection with the brothers, but is always open to building relationships with developers.

Looking towards her future, Elena hopes to encourage others to grow with her. Elena seeks to dip into the luxury home market once she gets her designation. After completing her course, she will be able to truly practice what she has learned. Elena explained that as the money on the table increases, the flow of the market decreases, yet it is still a necessary market Elena has an eye for detail and was confident in saying, “I provide what they’re looking for.”

Working at EXP Realty, Elena said she found, “more opportunity to build my dream.” Elena hopes to help others in the industry, reflecting on those that have helped her. She plans to develop her own business, but assist other agents through this business Elena seeks a team of passionate, motivated individuals.

Elena has found a small but mighty team with the help of EXP. She described Matt Long as very thorough, which is very helpful during paperwork. Rebekah Guidry is more similar to Elena, hoping to match the client with the perfect home.

Elena explains her dream as, “having my own team of powerful people. I want to build them up.” This is why the dream team of Elena, Matt, Rebekah and Shivers makes up our home section in this issue of Innovation.

“Elena Ladmirault, to me, is the definition of fresh air and kindness. Her ability to use her unmatched skill-set in the realestate industry, yet merge it with her faith and empathy, sets her in a league of her own. To “Humanize” this world of home buying, building and transitioning to the next level of a client's life, is a journey that will never be forgotten. She has found a way to efficiently innovate a field full of competition, while staying true to herself. She is a valued part of that journey and anyone who has the chance to meet this exuberant soul will agree wholeheartedly.”- Elisse website: https://elenaladmirault exprealty.com/

Written by Celeste Denova