Janet Buff is a Realtor for RE/MAX Pearland.
What was your first job in the realty industry?
My first job was working for an apartment locator, since I had years of experience working as an apartment manager.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in South Texas. I was born in Alice, graduated from Mathis High School and then spent my young adult life living in Corpus Christi, where my three daughters were born before being transferred to League City.
What is your favorite free-time activity?
I have many things I like to do in my free time, such as spending time with my daughters and grandsons, painting, gardening and being on the water.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Swim, talk to a friend, listen to music and play with my dogs.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
I wanted to be an artist. I did teach art for many years and still paint to this day.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Jesus, and I would love the conversation.
Where is your favorite place to hang out?
The beach.
What do you love most about the industry?
I enjoy working with eager-to-be-educated, realistic buyers who want perfection out of the process but are willing to settle for value, quality, character and attention to detail. I do truly LOVE educating people about homes and the transaction process, ensuring as much transparency as possible so we all get to closing and everyone is satisfied with the process.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I am very personable and have years of experience in all fields of real estate. I also live and play in the area that I specialize in. Being a part of a hometown team, who has grown up in the area, brings familiarity and experience to my clients, giving them the trust and reassurance they need to know that I will be there with them every step of the way.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Telling clients the hard truth about their property in regards to price and value and where the market is and where the numbers are, and having to tell them the value of their home is worth thousands less than they thought it was or that it was four or five years ago. It is also difficult telling clients that their house is dated or the wallpaper is bad or that they need to change things in their home to make is show better. It’s a very personal aspect, but I know what it takes to show a house well and have buyers like a home and its very difficult to say you need to update this or that.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
I am always networking at my grandchildren’s functions, at the grocery store, on the internet and through friends and family.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
I think just surviving the down fall in the real estate market and hanging in through the tough economic times has been my greatest accomplishment.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
The last book I read was a real estate staging book. I have a degree in interior design and wanted to be able to give my clients some helpful hints on staging their homes.
What is your favorite restaurant?
My favorite restaurant is Pappadeaux’s.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Houston?
The St Joseph Professional Building in Downtown with its giant white cross.
What kind of car do you drive?
I drive a Jeep Patriot.
Smartphone or Paper?
I like both. My smart phone keeps me organzied on the go and I use paper reminders at home and the office.
What is your favorite city after Houston?
Austin.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Shadow a seasoned Realtor.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Around Me.
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter?
I like to follow news organizations such as USA Today and CNN.
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