Meet Cheryl McCarter of Keller Williams Realty Plano

I grew up in the Dallas area in a real estate family. My father was a real estate broker who sold Farm/Ranch, Land, and Commercial Real Estate for as long as I can remember. My childhood dinner conversations consisted of hearing about the latest and greatest “deals,” which my father called them. His profession intrigued me as each transaction was different, and he always had the most exciting stories about the people he’d met. The exposure of real estate would later take me along that path, but, as I headed off to Texas Tech, my initial focus was on the social sciences. Psychology and human behavior intrigued me, and I seemed to be the one others called for advice. I enjoyed helping others, so I figured “the helping profession” was my calling. I received my undergraduate degree in Human Development, with a minor in Public Relations, and went on to obtain a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Houston. I worked in the field of Social Work for many years and still maintain an active license with the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners. Eventually, my heart for helping people and real estate came together as I considered merging professions.

During my first year, as a REALTOR®, I dedicated most of my time putting systems in place and increasing my education.  My first transaction was a Buyer referral from a friend. I later found out that my friend provided the Buyer two agent names: A well known top producing agent and then me. The Buyer knew I was a new agent but selected me because he knew I’d work my tail off, and I did!  His reason for choosing me made a lasting impact. From that moment, I decided to work at that level of intensity for all my clients going forward, no matter how busy I eventually became.  Accessibility, constant communication, and determination to go above and beyond in achieving my client’s goals became vital elements of my business model and one in which I take very seriously today. I work diligently to exceed my client’s expectations and provide them with the best real estate experience imaginable.

 By my second year, I was off and running. My first listing was my own home in the neighborhood of Willow Bend in Plano, which went under contract in 4 days. The neighbor behind me was so impressed with the quick sale that he chose me to sell his home. Both were luxury Properties, so closing these two homes sales helped accelerate my business in the luxury market and also as a listing agent in gerneral.  By my third year in real estate, I was receiving referrals from clients and vendors, and today the majority of my business is built on referrals. Serving clients to the highest level has earned my rank in the top 25% of producing Keller Williams agents in my market center as well as being named D Magazines’ Best Real Estate Agent, which I’m humbled to have received.

Starting in real estate is challenging. There’s a lot to learn that real estate school doesn’t teach. Not to mention being a business owner, all the responsibilities that go with that, and creating a successful business model. Real estate is a tough business. Many people get into this industry, not understanding what it takes to be successful. There’s long hours, discipline, marketing, putting together a business plan, mastering contracts, and continuously honing your skills to be the best representative for your clients. My initial struggle was the disciple to put systems in place and consistently generate leads. I mean, who wants to call people and ask for business?  I frustrated my productivity coach because I refused to “cold call.”  I tried, and I could barely stand to listen to my own sales pitch, so I stopped. It was unnatural. I honestly dislike salespeople calling me, and certainly didn’t want to be “that person.”  I decided there had to be a better way, so I focused my strength on helping people instead of generating business for business’ sake.  I came from a place of contribution and service, and my business began to flourish. When I contacted people in my database or those I met at an open house, my approach was more about how I could help them rather than converting them into active business. I do believe if you put people first and sincerely mean that, everything else will fall into place. But the goal has to be people first.

I’m a licensed REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty Plano. I specialize in residential real estate, both buying, and selling. I have experience with commercial real estate, but my primary focus is residential.

I’m proud of my brokerage for many reasons. Firstly, I’m proud of our culture. We are like a family. We sincerely support one another and celebrate each other’s successes. We also help one another and share ideas. I’ll never forget walking into the office, as a new agent, clueless on what I was doing, and a seasoned agent taking note of my distress, sat down with me for an hour and coached me through a contract. He didn’t have to do that, but that’s the kind of caring atmosphere we have in our office. Everyone is willing to help. This positive energy and support create an extremely productive work environment. Secondly, I’m proud of our training and technology, which is the best in the industry. Thirdly, I’m proud of my brokers at Keller Williams Realty Plano, who make themselves accessible to answer questions and assist agents in need. I credit a great deal of my success to Keller Williams Plano, who has given me the tools, training, and support to be the best for my clients. There’s no brokerage like it!

My favorite childhood memory was growing up in the neighborhood of Canyon Creek in Richardson. My friends and I would play in the creek, meet up at the square, have sleep-overs, wrap houses, play “truth or dare” and get into all kinds of fun mischief. I still get together with several of my childhood friends, and a few of them have become clients.

My other fond memory was spending time with my dad. He and I spent a lot of time camping, horse-back riding, watching cartoons on Saturday morning, and hanging out in general. He was my best friend and made growing up fun. He was the chief of our Indian Princess group and always came up with fun activities, crafts, and outings. I will cherish those precious memories of him forever.