Rye Business Spotlight: Stetson Real Estate

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this new, exciting series we’re kicking off at Patch — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Our first business shares their story below.

Business: Rob Seitz, independent Realtor with Stetson Real Estate
Owners: Mary Stetson
Website: www.stetsonrealestate.com
Address: 1214 East Boston Post Rd

How did you come up with the name?

Stetson Real Estate is owned and operated by Mary Stetson and has been in business for nearly 15 years.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

Stetson Real Estate is centrally located at the crossroads of Mamaroneck, Rye Neck, Harrison and Rye. Mary Stetson and her husband, Dana, her senior adviser, have lived in Mamaroneck for more than 20-years and have raised their children here. Both son and daughter are Rye Neck School alumni and are now attending college.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Turning dreams into realities, whether it’s finding the perfect spot to open or grow your business, or find the right new residence at the right time, in the right community, and at the right price.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

In real estate, until the contract of sale or lease is signed, anything can happen. My job as an agent with an exclusive representation agreement is to represent my client’s best interests first and foremost. However, agents often have to assume the role of “dual agent”, working with both sides to reach an agreement that is acceptable to all so that the deal moves forward instead of getting killed!

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

I’ve been an entrepreneur all but six years of my 30+ year career. The first time was by “default” so I didn’t have many options or choices. However, once I got into the rhythm of being self-employed I decided to stick with it. Then about two years ago I began the gradual process of going from being a part-time Realtor to a full-time/over-time Realtor. I now have over 10-years full-time and part-time experience as an agent.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

The most satisfying part of this job is the many thank yous I receive and the referrals I get from my clients. The referrals are what keep my practice growing.

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?

For me, personally, I am a big believer in research and getting to know my product well. If I am asked a question that I don’t know the answer to, I make it my point to find out ASAP, sometimes on the spot. But sometimes even the property owner doesn’t know and so then I start searching the records of buildings departments, assessors offices, utility companies or whatever it takes to get the question answered.

How do you deal with difficult customers?

Count to ten. Prayer helps, too.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

A number of Stetson agents already are actively involved with their children’s schools, houses of worship or not-for-profits. This fall, we will be launching some community service projects starting in Mamaroneck.

Are you a local small business with a story to tell? Send it to us by clicking here.