In this exclusive interview, we invite you to embark on the inspiring journey of Aneezah Hawkins, a dynamic entrepreneur who has seamlessly transitioned from a successful IT career to a flourishing real estate venture with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Originating from the picturesque island of Mauritius, Aneezah’s story spans continents, weaving a tapestry of integrity, resilience, and unwavering dedication to helping others. As a trusted real estate advisor, she infuses every transaction with compassion and expertise, ensuring her clients find not just houses, but homes. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned buyer or seller, or simply someone who loves success stories, Aneezah’s insights and experiences are sure to captivate and inspire you.
Now, let’s dive into her fascinating journey.
Aneezah, can you share your story with our fellow members?
I was born in Mauritius – Ile Maurice. I moved to Arizona in 1988 to attend ASU - and have been in Arizona since then. I received my Bachelors and Masters in Computer Information Systems from ASU. Mauritius was a French and British colony, and I am bilingual in French and English. I also speak Creole. I love football (soccer) and follow the English Premier League, European football, and World Cup. My family is an important part of my life, and I make time to go to Mauritius at least once a year. I enjoy spending time outdoors, love to hike, run, do yoga, and travel across the world. I also enjoy cooking (while listening to old French songs). I volunteer for several non-profit organizations, and I’m well connected to the Greater Phoenix community and the local Expatriate community.
What was the moment or experience that made you realize real estate was the right path for you?
Before getting into real estate, much of my 25-year career was in IT and business consulting, where I established a track record of commitment to help corporate clients achieve their business goals. I was looking for another profession and industry where I could use my experience and deliver excellent customer service. I was going through the process of selling my own house and a friend of mine suggested I get into real estate - that’s how it started. After getting my license, some of my friends reached out and asked me to help them sell and buy houses. Going through the process was enlightening – seeing how happy my clients were at the end was truly amazing, and I realized I wanted to continue helping people achieve their American dream of home ownership.
When did you start working in this field?
I switched to real estate in 2017 – 7 years ago after 25+ years of working in the IT corporate world as a consultant, manager, and working crazy hours. I leveraged my IT background and used a structure and discipline to build and manage my real estate business.
Is Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty the name of your company? What is the meaning of this name?
My Broker is Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Russ Lyon is the local franchise of Sotheby’s in Arizona and was established in 1947 by Russ Lyon Sr. Since 1947, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has ranked among the highest-performing real estate firms in Arizona. Russ Lyon is highly regarded for its professional service, integrity, and community leadership. We have 900+ real estate advisors in 12 offices in Arizona. Our international network through Sotheby’s spans across 84 countries and territories.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when you first started in this field, and how did you overcome them?
In my previous career, I was a full-time employee working for a company. There was a structure in place; I reported to someone who would provide direction. I was paid every 2 weeks. As a Global Real Estate Advisor, I am an independent contractor and work for myself. I get paid when I close on a transaction. Building a network of clients who would eventually refer business to me was the challenge. When I got started in real estate, I made a huge commitment to networking within the Greater Phoenix community and with other real estate agents. Through those networking events, I made connections who eventually referred business to me and my business started to flourish.
What do you find most rewarding about working in real estate? And what do you enjoy most about your day-to-day work?
The process of buying and selling a home is a very stressful process. Buying a home is one of the biggest investments of your life. Helping and guiding my clients through the process, taking the stress out so they can focus on their move and their day-to-day life, helping them achieve their dreams of homeownership, and negotiating the best price and terms for all my clients is the ultimate reward.
What are some common misconceptions people have about buying or selling property, and how do you help clients navigate these?
Finding a home is easy. Almost anyone can find a home they like on Zillow or other 3rd party real estate sites. But did you know that the home buying process involves over 100 different steps? The hardest part comes after finding a home and involves negotiation and knowledge of the real estate process and contracts. As a result of the NAR settlement regarding the class action lawsuit which was effective August 1st in Arizona and August 17th nationwide, the way we buy and sell real estate has changed. It is imperative to stay on top of the changes – the process, the new contracts, and be able to explain how it impacts buyers and sellers to our clients. I am the go-to person for my clients from beginning to end. I deal with all the other parties such as the title companies, lenders, inspectors, appraisers, contractors, and more. I provide communication and updates to my clients on a regular basis.
How do you differentiate yourself from other real estate agents in your area?
Integrity, Communication, Compassion. Since I started my real estate career, I have developed a growing reputation for delivering professional, world-class service to my real estate clients in the Valley of the Sun. I am a real estate advisor, not just a real estate sales agent. I am hardworking, pay close attention to detail, and use innovation – in-depth data-driven market research, cutting-edge marketing strategies, and savvy negotiating tactics – to deliver superior results for my clients.
How do you build and maintain strong relationships with your clients?
Trust – My approach is about building trust and having compassion for others. Trust starts by acting with honesty and integrity – this means consistently taking actions that match words and promises. I care deeply about my client’s success. I go the extra mile for them – this can be helping sellers with staging their home to sell, finding contractors for repairs, helping with moving, or helping buyers with lender pre-qualification, inspections, remodeling estimates, and utilities setup. As a result, I have developed a fiercely loyal and like-minded clientele where mutual trust translates into personal referrals and repeat business. The relationships do not end with the close of escrow – many of my clients have become lifelong friends.
Could you share a memorable experience with a client that highlights your approach to real estate?
Here’s a testimonial from one of my clients: “We can’t say enough about Aneezah Hawkins. We met her at a random open house. We were not interested in that house but without any pressure she asked pertinent questions to help guide our parameters. When we became serious, we chose her for our realtor and couldn’t have been happier. Her questions and opinions easily narrowed our search. When we found our future home, she was there every step in our month-long negotiation, strongly representing us with her realty expertise. During the inspection period, she supplied a list of quality tradesmen/companies for us to choose from and met us at the house every time an inspection was scheduled. Amazing personal service. The house needed significant repairs based on the inspections AND she was able to negotiate a significant price reduction. We got a great deal, and an even lower price based on the appraisal which she suggested we do as we were cash buyers. She did it all. And that’s still not all! My husband was hospitalized preventing us from flying down to Scottsdale for our furniture delivery. Aneezah stepped in again and spent a full day receiving our furniture and coordinating its placement. I dare you to find a better realtor. Thanks, Aneezah!”
What are your core values as a real estate agent?
Integrity is crucial for me. I believe in being honest and not taking advantage of people. Buying a house is a significant investment, and I provide honest advice to help clients make informed decisions. I stick to the core values my parents taught me, ensuring I always act ethically and with integrity.
What are your goals for the coming year in terms of business growth or personal development in real estate?
The NAR changes which are effective August 1st will be a challenge for most buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. My goal is to learn, communicate and implement the new changes, while continuing to provide the same world-class service to all my clients.
Are there any specific markets or niches within real estate that you’re particularly excited about exploring?
I currently specialize in the luxury market in Scottsdale, Phoenix and the East Valley. Being from Mauritius, and having experienced other cultures, I tend to build rapport with expats and people from other countries. I would love to get a stronger client base within the expat French speaking community, hence my decision to join the FACC.
What can clients expect when they choose to work with you?
A knowledgeable, experienced real estate advisor you can trust to put your interests first. Someone who will negotiate for your best interests and will go the extra mile for you.
How can people reach out to you?
Aneezah Hawkins, Website: aneezahhawkins.comCell: +1480-793-6851Email: aneezah.hawkins@russlyon.com
Aneezah’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of following one’s passion. As she continues to make a positive impact on the lives of her clients, we are reminded that success is not just about achieving goals, but also about uplifting others along the way.
RMFACC is delighted to express its sincere gratitude to Aneezah for sharing her remarkable journey and valuable insights in this interview. We are honored to have her as a member of our community and greatly admire her dedication to integrity, compassion, and excellence within the real estate industry. We always enjoy seeing her at our events and wish her continued success and many happy clients.
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