Story Listening: The Secret to Exceptional Real Estate in Richmond VA
When people think about real estate, they often picture contracts, house tours, and negotiations. But being a Realtor in Richmond VA is so much more than that. My role goes far beyond opening doors and writing offers. On any given day, I wear many hats for my clients: Realtor, therapist, interior designer, contractor, problem solver, even social media guru. And while each of these roles is important, what ties them all together is something I call story listening.
Before I entered real estate, I spent more than a decade as a professional ballet dancer with Richmond Ballet and Hartford Ballet. Dance taught me discipline, the value of preparation, and perhaps most importantly, how to listen first. In the ballet studio and on stage, success depended on tuning in—to my partner, to the music, to the subtle shifts of momentum—before making the next move. That practice of listening deeply has become the cornerstone of how I serve my clients today.
In real estate, every client has a unique story. Some are first-time buyers looking for a starter home in Richmond’s historic neighborhoods. Others are families ready to upsize, or downsizers searching for a low-maintenance lifestyle. I’ve worked with investors focused on the numbers and with sellers who are emotionally attached to the home where they raised their children. Each situation comes with different needs, emotions, and challenges. My job is to listen closely and step into whatever role helps guide the process forward.
Sometimes that means being a therapist, calming nerves during stressful negotiations. Other times, it is being a designer, helping envision how a space could be transformed. On another day, I might take on the role of a contractor, walking through a property with a sharp eye for potential repairs, or a problem solver, navigating unexpected issues during inspections. And yes, in today’s market, I also become a social media strategist, making sure my listings shine online where buyers are looking.
At the core of all these roles is trust, and trust begins with listening. By paying attention to the details—your concerns, your goals, your dreams—I can anticipate challenges and create a plan that is proactive, not reactive. Just as in ballet, there is no second take in real estate. Every move matters.
That is why story listening is the heart of my business. To tell a good story, you have to listen to the details first. And when you are ready to buy or sell real estate in Richmond VA, I am here to listen, to guide, and to help you achieve your goals with confidence.
Learn more about how I can help you write the next chapter of your story at philskaggsrealestate.com.