There are numerous ways realtors can help their clients when buying or selling a home. In an overly-competitive market, experienced agents often have to go above and beyond. It takes balancing what a buyer wants and what a seller will accept.
One Warwick-based realtor has formed a unique approach to selling a property and representing her buyer clients. Meet Tracy Mansolillo of HomeSmart, located on 100 Quaker Lane. Her way of getting her clients’ homes sold or her buyers noticed is through marketing and sharing stories. She said that everyone has a story, and every story matters—whether it’s the history of a property or the story of the search for a dream home.
You could say she has a knack for storytelling, which comes from another invaluable resource she offers.
“I worked in corporate marketing before transitioning into real estate. My years of experience in marketing, sales, and communications, along with my ability to multi-task and solve problems, has enabled me to make the process of buying or selling homes as seamless as possible for my clients. I used to help companies define and build brands through strategic marketing programs. Now, I help sellers market their homes and buyers find their dream home. My marketing background is a big part of that,” Mansolillo said.
One could also say that real estate is in Tracy’s blood. Her mother, Lorraine, worked in real estate for 15 years before retiring. When Tracy was younger, she often tagged along with her mother to work. It was there where she learned the importance of exceptional customer service and how to connect sellers and buyers.
Tracy often spent hours pouring through the old MLS (Multiple Listing Services) books to help her mother find potential properties for her clients. Even then, Mansolillo could envision the story behind each home.
She felt at home in her mother’s office, which was located in Cowesett, not far from where Tracy works today. Lorraine worked at Adele DiStefano Realty (formerly in Warwick). “The office was like an extended family,” said Tracy.
And that’s how she treats her buyers and sellers, today. Long after a transaction is complete, she remains in touch, even with those who have moved out of state.
“A closing doesn’t mark the end of a relationship. It’s often the beginning of a friendship,” she shared.
While she loved her time in the marketing field, helping companies with branding, the pandemic gave her the initiative to switch gears. It became apparent to Tracy that it was the perfect time to move forward.
“I’ve had a long-standing passion for real estate and the time was right,” she said. “In looking for a brokerage, I felt right at home with HomeSmart. It’s a collaborative, family-oriented environment that spoke to me.”
While she didn’t set out to work in a niche, she has found one with both sellers and buyers who either own or dream of owning a property near the water.
“People love living around water. Whether it’s saltwater or freshwater, the ocean, a lake, or even a pond. I recently found a home that overlooked a waterfall that was attractive to an out-of-state client. I work with people coming from all over the US, from California to the Midwest—they all are looking to be near water. It’s a highly sought-after amenity,” Mansolillo said.
Mansolillo is licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. She thrives on learning more about the industry and recently obtained her broker’s license, which requires 90 hours of continuing education.
She acknowledged the problem associated with today’s housing market. With very low inventory, high prices, and multiple offers on properties, it can be difficult to find a home. Tracy asks her clients to be patient and stay calm, even during this crazy time.
“Staying calm enables you to stay focused, and that’s what buyers need to do,” Tracy said.
While it’s not been easy, there are still opportunities, and when there aren’t, Tracy searches for them.
“I’d love to see more construction and building in the state. Many property owners are content to stay put unless they’re relocating or already own another property. With the median price of a home in Rhode Island at $430,000, 2.4% higher than a year ago, RI could use more affordable options as well,” she said.
When it comes to selling your home, Tracy has you covered.
“The saying that you have one chance to make a first impression applies in real estate. I work with photographers that help me create a story for a property, but before that, it’s critical to declutter and stage it, so potential buyers envision themselves living there. Buyers should walk in and feel right at home.”
If you’re looking to sell or buy a home, please contact Tracy at (401) 834-1250, or at tracymansolillo@gmail.com.
