When it comes to real estate, learning about the market through experience is pivotal for any agent. And having served just under fifty years in the industry, St. Louis’ longest licensed female agent, Joan Schnoebelen, definitely knows this market. T&S reached out to learn about her experiences and what insights her nearly five decade career has given her.
Why did you decide to become a real estate agent?
When I was very young and married with little children, we lived in Warson Woods. All of my friends loved where we lived and asked me to let them know if anything in the area was ever for sale. I started telling them about different houses as they came to market, and before you knew it, I made connections to sell eight or 10 houses. One of our neighbors was a real estate broker, and he asked me to go to work for him since I was selling everything in the neighborhood. Obviously, it turned out to be a good choice, and I’ve stuck with it, selling within the same corridor for 49 years.
What was it like entering a male dominated field?
My first office was small, and I was the only girl selling residential. The four other agents were men focused on commercial real estate. I was hired so they could get into the residential market. I quickly learned that I needed to be able to network more, so I moved to a bigger firm. It was owned and operated by men, but there were a lot more female agents.
What’s a common misconception people have about being a real estate agent?
A lot of people start with the idea that it will be a part-time gig that they can just dabble in. You learn quickly that it’s a full-time job, and you have to make the choice to dive in. You have to be willing to be available 24/7—success only comes with hard work.
What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen to the industry?
Technology is definitely the biggest. When I first started, we would get the new listings on a typewritten sheet. Then we moved to printed paper with photos. In the ’80s, we would get something like a telephone book with all of the listings. Now, everything is online. Back in the day, when you were showing houses, you had to drive around to other agencies to get the keys. If you were showing ten properties, you might spend an hour in the morning picking up keys and then another hour in the evening returning them. Today, we use Supra lock boxes. It’s a lot easier to show a property, but there’s a lot more paperwork, that part of the process has become engulfing. For every deal you do, the paperwork is a huge file.
What’s the best piece of career advice you received?
At the start of my career, I didn’t really have anyone to teach me. I just sort of threw myself into it and worked hard. If you are going into real estate, the best thing you can do is find someone who can mentor you and will let you shadow them. There is no greater way to learn.
What advice would you give a new agent?
Be prepared to work hard. You need to always be available to clients and return their calls immediately. It’s always also important to be a deal maker, not a deal breaker. Don’t be argumentative when writing contracts and dealing with other agents. Being agreeable will help you reach the best deal for both the buyer and seller.
Do you have a most memorable experience?
I really would say my whole career has been memorable. It’s been an incredible ride. I’ve so enjoyed meeting and getting to know people, many who have become lifelong friends. I was very blessed to have my daughter Megan Rowe join me as a partner, and it’s been terrific to have her in business with me. Two years ago, we began working with another partner, Lizzy Dooley. I’m thrilled to have them with me because it makes a world of difference. Being a part of Dooley Rowe Schnoebelen has made this part of my career so enjoyable. We’re always there for each other and function perfectly together. The time really has flown by for me, I can hardly believe that I’m approaching 50 years.