Introducing Douglas Elliman’s California Rookie of the Year: Laura Chavers

Prior to joining Douglas Elliman last year, Laura Chavers was working in real estate development, where floor plans and design were front and center. Those were skills she thought could translate well to real estate sales, and so far those instincts seem prescient. At this year’s annual Douglas Elliman awards , Laura earned the coveted ‘Rookie of the Year’ title for California. Laura Chavers Elliman Insider sat down with Laura to find out what motivates her to excel, her goals for 2021 and the advice she’d give any new agent looking to make their mark. You were named Elliman’s Rookie of the Year for California. How does that feel? Laura Chavers: I was pleasantly surprised as it was a tough year joining Douglas Elliman only weeks before the world changed with Covid. EI: Tell us a little about your background. Did you always love real estate?​ LC: I have always loved real estate. Before getting my real estate license, I worked with several friends doing real estate development. Interior design and reimagining a floor plan was a passion of mine and a challenge I enjoyed tackling. EI: 2020 was an interesting year for everyone, but especially for a rookie. How did you manage to rise to the top? ​ LC: I sent out social media blasts announcing my new position with Douglas Elliman. I was pleased with the response, which definitely lead to some of my success in 2020. I also used my time during the lockdowns to focus on trainings as well as reaching out to friends and contacts. It was amazing how many people started to think about where they wanted to be and how they wanted to make changes in their lives. It has been tough with all the new required procedures to remain safe, but everyone appreciated my attention to detail with regard to their well-being while helping them find their new home. EI: What motivates you? ​ LC: Helping people has always been my motivation. EI: How did Elliman help guide you through the year? Did you have any mentors? ​ LC: When I joined Douglas Elliman, one of the first things I did was meet with Matt Conroy to learn about the DE intranet. All the applications and support available to the agents have been a big plus. EI: Why did you choose Elliman? ​ LC: There were several reasons for choosing Elliman. I had previously met several agents that worked for Elliman and they all impressed me. Once I interviewed, I knew it was a perfect fit as I instantly felt comfortable with everyone, especially the management who have been amazing. The reputation that Elliman carries with exceptional agents and the connections worldwide through our Knight Frank partnership, I felt would add to my reach. EI: Any advice for new agents? ​ LC: My advice to any new agent is to make sure you are focused. This job has many benefits, but you must make it your priority and put yourself out there as a full-time agent. Make sure people know who you are and don’t forget that you will be part of something that can be very stressful for people, but it comes with wonderful rewards when you see them in their new home. EI: What are your goals for next year? ​ LC: My goals always revolve around making sure my clients are happy. If they are happy, my other goals seem to follow. Continuing to learn more about the opportunities with Elliman will be a big part of next year. However, closing the sale of my Strand listing is definitely a big part of this year.   Check out 3416 The Strand, Manhattan Beach     ​Contact Laura for all of your real estate needs today.