Joy Wardroup

What does success mean to you?

Success in my work shows itself through the trust I receive from my clients, fulfillment as I accomplish great things with those I am working with, and freedom because I am confident knowing I can work hard to continue to provide for myself and my family. Feeling accomplished and capable is so important to me. It is such an honor to do what I do and be let into people’s homes and lives!

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you build yourself back up?

There are many unknowns in real estate. I am so fortunate to feel safe and loved even in those times. In moments of self-doubt I know that with the support of my colleagues, friends, and family, there is nothing that can’t be accomplished.

Real Estate involves many new beginnings and many closures. I love those moments and always strive to work towards one or the other…..actually both!

What does the world need more of? Less of?

The world needs more empathy and understanding for and of one another. A quote that relates to this topic that I love is this: “Opinion is really the lowest form of human knowledge. It requires no accountability, no understanding. The highest form of knowledge is empathy for it requires us to suspend our egos and live in another’s world. It requires profound purpose larger than the self kind of understanding.” Bill Bullard.

Was there anyone influential in your life that inspired your career path?

When I was growing up my aunt was in real estate. I always wanted to do interior design, stage homes, and become a realtor. I was always very impressed with her and watched as she successfully navigated being a mother and a businesswoman. My uncle was wonderful and successful and provided greatly for his family but I remember my aunt telling me the story of her buying a microwave with one of her first commission checks and taking a picture of it to commemorate the occasion. At that time not everyone had a microwave and she was the one that purchased it for her family. I remember thinking I wanted to do that. I can do that.

I always wanted to be a mom, an interior designer, and a realtor. With the inspiration of my mentors, I’ve done all of that!

What advice would you recommend for someone pursuing a real estate career?

I would always recommend having a mentor to start with. Having someone you can shadow and someone watching over your first few transactions is absolutely necessary.

My only other simple advice is to pick up the phone when it rings. If you read an email or text message respond to it immediately, even if you have to say you will be following up or responding more in-depth at another time. It’s all about communication. Silence is never golden in real estate.

What rituals could you not live without in your workday?

I start every day by making my bed. It puts me in the right mindset and gets my day started right!

Joy Wardoup is a Realtor with Milehimodern.

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