Episode Summary: Realtor of the Month – Paula Avenaim of Baird & Warner

Podcast: Becker Business
Host: Scott Becker
Guest: Paula Avenaim
Date: November 19, 2025

Main Theme

This episode shines a spotlight on Paula Avenaim, a globally licensed realtor with Baird & Warner, recognized for her expertise in both the Illinois and Florida markets. Paula discusses the trends shaping today’s real estate landscape, her unique career journey, the importance of integrity and resilience, and essential advice for both emerging real estate professionals and buyers. The episode is a blend of inspiration, professional tips, and market insights.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Paula’s Journey Into Real Estate

• Transition from Finance to Real Estate:
  • Paula started her career at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange before co-founding a mortgage and title company in 2000.
  • She spent over 20 years in the title business, eventually realizing her true passion was for direct client connection.
  • "I felt like I was missing out and connecting more with clients and being more helpful with them in their process of selling and buying... So it was definitely my calling." – Paula (01:45)

2. Current Real Estate Market Trends

• Inventory & Pricing:
  • The market continues to experience low inventory, which keeps prices elevated.
  • Delays in construction and permitting due to supply chain and labor costs.
  • “There still is a shortage at low inventory… Whenever there’s low inventory… it’s going to drive up the prices.” – Paula (03:15)
• Buyer Behavior Post-COVID:
  • Initially, low rates led to few listings as homeowners stayed put.
  • Recently, more buyers and sellers are entering the market, with deals moving quickly (some listings going under contract within 1–4 days).
  • Slight decreases in mortgage rates, but not enough to spark a massive influx of buyers.

3. Building Trust and Client Loyalty

• Keys to Standing Out:
  • Authenticity, active listening, and prioritizing clients’ needs over her own.
  • Building a trustworthy team of lenders, attorneys, inspectors, etc.
  • “The biggest thing is being authentic… They have to trust you… It’s not a business where it’s about what my needs are, it’s what their needs are.” – Paula (06:15)
• Referral-Based Business:
  • Paula’s reputation leads to repeated clients and referrals, which she views as a “gift” and a reflection of her client relationships.

4. Resilience in Real Estate & Life

• Sources of Resilience:
  • Her three boys inspire her perseverance and adaptability.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic forced realtors to advocate for their business as essential, pivot operationally, and adopt new safety standards.
  • “We were resilient as a real estate world… to make sure that we could be considered a necessity during COVID.” – Paula (09:52)
• Handling Unique Challenges:
  • Example: Helping to liquidate 18 properties from a client’s estate by collaborating with attorneys and quickly acclimating to new administrative demands.

5. Advice for Emerging Buyers, Brokers, and Investors

• Invest in Knowledge:
  • Education is power — learn, take classes, and seek mentorship.
  • Real estate offers versatility: personal home ownership, investment, and a wide spectrum of career opportunities.
  • “You can design your destiny in the homeownership arena and build happiness, safety, finances. It’s real. The money is real, the career is real, the opportunity is real.” – Paula (12:49)
• Encouragement for the Next Generation:
  • The real estate world is broad and global; confidence and a willingness to learn are essential.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Career Fulfillment:
  “I was missing that piece of the connection with people and clients… so it was definitely my calling.” – Paula (01:54)

• On Client Relationships:
  “This is the biggest transaction of their life. So it’s super important to make it as seamless as possible.” – Paula (07:21)

• On Resilience During COVID:
  “Talk about a time of needing to be resilient... We were actually able to go to Washington and advocate for this and make an action happen.” – Paula (09:52)

• On Opportunity in Real Estate:
  “The world is your oyster and it’s just really true. So go for it and don’t be afraid.” – Paula (13:15)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Introduction & Paula’s Background – 00:00–02:59
• State of the Market & Trends – 02:59–05:42
• Building Trust and Client Loyalty – 05:42–08:32
• Resilience & Overcoming Challenges – 08:32–11:41
• Advice to New Buyers, Brokers, and Investors – 11:41–13:26
• Closing Remarks – 13:26–13:43

Tone & Style

The conversation is warm, authentic, and encouraging, characterized by Paula’s openness and commitment to client service. Scott Becker provides a supportive and appreciative interviewing style, drawing out stories and principles that are both practical and inspiring.

This summary distills the episode’s insights and highlights Paula Avenaim’s expertise, practical wisdom, and the caring approach that distinguishes her in the real estate field. Perfect for listeners seeking to understand both market conditions and the mindset that leads to lasting success in real estate.