Member Spotlight: Gregory Post, Century 21 Western Realty
Can you tell us a little about the history of your business?
Century 21 Western Realty was started in 1976. It is the oldest Century 21 franchise in the greater Houston area. Robert "Bob" Kory was the original owner and broker for our company. My wife, Kelly Post, and I bought the company from Bob in 2005. Bob is still with us. As far as I know we are the longest running real estate company in the Katy area.
What inspired you to start this business and how has your vision evolved over time?
I started my first real estate office in 1988 because I felt I could "do it better". As an owner/broker you have two customers: the general public and your agents. The best way to serve the consumer is by preparing each agent to be able to provide the highest quality of service to their clients. The best way to serve our agents is to develop their skills and facilitate their real estate careers in a positive supportive environment.
What sets your business apart from others in your industry?
Our specific culture! While every company has a culture, it may be accidentally created. We are deliberate in the development of our culture. We recruit to a special type of agent. We look for people that have good ethics, good attitude, willing to help others and have a good work ethic. While our office is very diverse, the environment is very supportive and positive.
How has being a member of the Chamber of Commerce benefited your business?
To be on top of the real estate industry you need to know what is going on in your community. A strong Chamber is involved in the business community and communicates with its members. It helps with consumer recognition of your company.
In what ways do you engage with the local community?
We encourage each of our agents to be involved with their community and support them were it is possible. We are involved in very local activities like fun runs, cook offs, clothing drives, religious and school activities where we can be with the public on a personal basis.
What advice would you give to new business owners considering joining the Chamber?
Be active and make the networking activities that are available.
What challenges has your business faced and how have you overcome them?
The collapse of real estate values in the mid 1980 and again in the early 2000s. Hard work and doing what you do very well always over comes.
Can you tell us about a product or service you're particularly proud of?
As the owner and broker of a real estate company, I am very proud of how we train, prepared and support our agents which in turn provides highly qualified real estate agents serving the public with real estate needs in a way that is superior to our competition.
What does excellent customer service mean to you?
Excellent customer service involves many things. It is doing your job with care, joy, attention to detail, active listening, anticipating your customer's needs, and communicating.
What’s the most rewarding part of running your business?
Helping people making their biggest and most important investment in their lives, their first home!
Connect with Gregory:
713-582-7628