Roxanna Ahlbach is a dedicated Realtor based in Berkeley, California, renowned for her expertise. With a BA in Public Administration from the University of San Francisco, Roxanna seamlessly blends her understanding of government operations and community dynamics with her passion for helping people find their special home. She specializes in helping clients find homes to love and grow in. Committed to community enhancement, Roxanna actively participates in local charities and serves as a Trustee on the board of Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley. Roxanna’s professional approach and dedication to ethical practices have established her as a trusted leader in the Berkeley real estate market.
What drew you to specialize in the Berkeley real estate market?
I was captivated by Berkeley’s vibrant community and diverse architectural styles. The area offers a unique blend of historical homes and modern developments that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. This variety presents exciting challenges and opportunities in my daily work, allowing me to use my expertise to match individuals and families with their perfect home.
How do you approach clients who are new to the Berkeley area?
I focus on education and personalization. I start by giving them a thorough overview of the different neighborhoods, discussing everything from school districts to local amenities and community events. This helps them not only find a home that fits their needs but also envision their life in their new community.
Can you share a success story where you helped a client through a difficult real estate transaction?
Certainly! I once worked with a family facing a tight deadline to find a new home due to a job relocation. We had limited options due to their specific needs, but through extensive networking, I found an off-market listing that was perfect. We managed to close the deal swiftly, and the family was thrilled to move into a home that truly suited their needs.
What trends do you see emerging in Berkeley’s real estate market right now?
There’s a growing interest in multi-generational homes and spaces that can adapt to changing family dynamics. Also, there’s a continuous strong demand for homes with green certifications and those that offer advanced tech integrations.
How has your public administration background influenced your real estate career?
It has been incredibly beneficial, particularly in understanding community planning and development. This background allows me to provide clients with insights into future community growth, which is invaluable when making investment decisions or choosing a forever home.
What challenges do you foresee in the real estate market over the next few years?
The market is likely to face challenges from rising interest rates and the ongoing need for affordable housing solutions. Navigating these will require innovative strategies to keep housing accessible while still offering good investment opportunities.
How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your philanthropic work?
It’s all about time management and prioritizing activities that align with my values. I schedule my philanthropic activities just as I would any important business meeting, ensuring I remain committed to both my clients and my community.
What’s one piece of technology you couldn’t work without in your real estate business?
My CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software is essential. It helps me keep track of client details, communications, and appointments. Staying organized and maintaining strong relationships are crucial in real estate, and this tool is key to managing that effectively.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the real estate industry?
Be bold and assertive. Real estate can be competitive, but it’s also rewarding. Build a strong network, continue learning, and don’t be afraid to take the lead in negotiations. Most importantly, find a niche you are passionate about—it will make your work more fulfilling.
Looking forward, what are your goals for the next five years in real estate?
I aim to expand my expertise and would like to continue to be a leading voice inthe berkeley Real Estate community. Additionally, I plan to mentor young professionals in the industry, sharing knowledge and encouraging them to be the best they can be.
Finally, what does success look like to you?
Professionally, success is helping my clients find homes that not only meet their needs but also contribute positively to their quality of life and the environment. Personally, it’s about achieving a balance that allows me to enjoy my work and my time with family and community.