AAPI Heritage Month Spotlight: Amanda Lin

How did you find your path to success in this field?

My family is involved in real estate back home in Taiwan. I grew up immersed in the industry and realized that real estate truly is the best investment of all! 

I studied piano since I was six years old. When I moved to New York for my doctorate degree, I opened a music teaching business in Manhasset, Long Island, and soon after segued into real estate. I decided to work with the number one brokerage in the area, Douglas Elliman Real Estate. 

My real estate business grew rapidly, and I decided to recruit teachers within my music school. I still manage and oversee everything in my music business. However, real estate is my main focus now.

Are there values or elements of your identity that you draw strength from in your work as an agent?

I possess the following values and attributes due to my Taiwanese heritage and my intense music training; discipline, focus, listening, paying attention to detail and mental strength.

What impact, if any, has your identity had on your experience in the real estate industry? Are there specific moments or episodes from over the years that illustrate that experience?

I am a fluent Mandarin speaker, and this helps me on a daily basis to communicate with Asian investors, sellers, and buyers alike. 

I am one of very few Asian real estate agents on the East End, and as a result, Mandarin speaking/Asian clients migrate to me in an organic fashion.

What would you like your industry colleagues to understand about your experience and what can they do to be better allies of the AAPI community?

I'd like to be treated the same. If any of my colleagues need help with Mandarin-speaking clients, feel free to reach out. 

How do you think brokerages like Elliman can help foster greater diversity and understanding in the industry.

Education, understanding, and clear communication. Ultimately, it comes down to respect. We must all have the utmost respect for our colleagues, clients, and prospects.