What Makes the Charleston Fine Homes Team Tick

CW: What habits do you implement in day to day life that you attribute to success?
Grist: “I have a morning and evening routine that I’ve been practicing habitually for the past six years. I rise early at around 5 a.m. and meditate/pray for 20 minutes, followed by a quick morning devotional. I set an intention for the day, followed by a 20 to 30 minute workout. By then, the house is up and it’s time to hit the ground running. I used to keep a gratitude journal but was always too exhausted at the end of the day to write my thoughts down. So now, I keep a mental gratitude journal. At night, before I fall asleep, I reflect on the day and give thanks, even if it’s something minor like the sun coming out or the good health of family and friends.”

Karinshak: “My schedule varies, so I have to be flexible on a daily basis to stay in contact and address the needs of my clients. I respond with sincerity and promptness to emails, texts and phone calls. Clients appreciate my attention to detail which results in a seamless transaction. I strive to be consistent with these habits that have contributed to my success.” 

CW: What things do you find difficult?
Grist: “Saying no. Maybe I’m a pushover; maybe I’m afraid of what I’d lose if I say no or maybe I think life is just far more interesting when you say yes. I’m still trying to find balance with this. I also struggle with hanging up on spam callers, honking my car horn and not addressing my elders as Sir or Ma’am. I’ve been told that’s a Southern thing.”

CW: What inspires you?
Schwarb: “I am inspired by the wonderful women in real estate and beyond who show us all what truly matters and how to be true to ourselves and successful all at the same time.”

CW: Who influences you in your life currently?
Schwarb: “Real estate is what I do, but in ‘real life’ I’m a mom and a grandma. My family is my passion. They inspire me to work hard and be my best self. They look up to me, and I want them to know I have goals just like they do and make mistakes too. As a widow, I feel I carry memories and double the love to share with all of them.”

CW: Give us some success tips for someone just starting out in your line of work.
Grist: “Real estate is a constantly changing, emotionally charged, exhilarating and exhausting profession. Embrace it, own it and buckle up for the ride of your life. You’re not just a salesperson. You are a business owner and an entrepreneur. Work in that mindset and partner with those who complement you. Real estate is all about managing relationships, knowing when to speak and when to listen.”