Heather Srodek is an experienced full-time Associate Broker and residential REALTOR® with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services. With over $140 million in career sales volume and a passion for creating lasting relationships with her clients, she is a powerhouse businesswoman in Medina County. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down and chat with her to learn more about her background and livelihood.
Where are you from?
I am a native Clevelander. My parent’s first house was in the Westpark area and we moved to Lakewood in 1979. I attended Lakewood Schools (Go Rangers!). We currently reside in Hinckley.
Tell me a little bit about your family.
I am the youngest of six. I have two brothers and three sisters. My parents were busy in the 1960s and 1970s! They have since passed away. I am an auntie to 13 nephews and nieces and seven great nieces/nephews and counting! Life sure is going by quickly.
Who do you look up to? And what qualities do you love in that person?
There are two people I admire most. My father, David Carpenter, would have been 88 this year. He was a quiet man of conviction. He instilled in me a strong work ethic and the importance of being selective. I try to surround myself with like-minded individuals who are goal-oriented and motivated. You are who you surround yourself with!
The other is my husband, Matt. He is like an oak tree – grounded, never wavering, supportive and incredibly patient. He is my rock, my sounding board and my anchor. Having him as my partner in life has made all the difference.
What are three words that you would use to describe yourself?
Determined. Motivated. Approachable.
How did you come to be a REALTOR® in 2006?
I had actually considered real estate right out of high school, but my parents wanted me to see through my decision to attend college. Along the way, I found myself working for a large commercial/residential real estate firm, Forest City Enterprises, as a sales analyst, which then lead to a lease management/business manager position at a competitor a few years later. I actually got my start in the industry in the mid-1990s. I veered off the path a bit to work in radio in a sales role, but a life change and a nudge from a friend ultimately led me to obtain my license in 2006. I became an Associate Broker in 2018.
What do you love about being a REALTOR®?
I love helping people achieve the American Dream. I have an old school work ethic and I still see the value in investing in oneself and one’s community through homeownership. I have met some really amazing people over the years, many of who have become friends and supporters. There’s nothing quite like handing over the keys!
How has COVID-19 impacted the housing market?
We had a little bit of a learning curve at first, but Howard Hanna did an amazing job of keeping things moving in the market. I worked closely with my clients to keep them updated on the new protocols and helped them find a level of comfort to either move forward or suspend the process. Every client has specific needs and concerns, so offering a no-pressure approach made all the difference. Obviously, we have certain protocols to follow now, but buyers and sellers are still moving! A personalized approach is key.
Is 2021 a good year to buy or sell?
Two thousand and twenty-one is already another record year in real estate. Buyers have access to low-interest rates and sellers are maximizing their home’s values now more than ever. My experience has been that many sellers have concerns about moving because they don’t know where they will land; my advice to them would be to call me for a confidential conversation. I have found that once I have an opportunity to assess their needs and set an expectation, sellers are much more at ease because they realize that it is not my intention to make them homeless! The move has to make sense. If now is not the time, then bare minimum, we’ve made a connection. When the time is right, I’ll be right there, ready to jump in and help them achieve their goal!
What are some of your favorite things about Medina County and the surrounding areas?
I love how welcoming Medina County is. It has a small-town feel with all the amenities one could want from a more urban setting. You can access so much in such a short time in Medina County.
What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests?
I love music, nature and wildlife. I am currently fulfilling a dream of learning to play piano and I recently purchased a new clarinet to get back to my musical roots a little more! My husband and I enjoy hiking in the Metroparks (around Hinckley Lake) and love watching the local wildlife. I also assist a local wildlife rehabilitator with injured and orphaned squirrels. It is such a joy to be part of a successful release of an animal back into the wild.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I enjoy practicing the piano, singing, getting outdoors, exercising, entertaining, cooking and baking. We really miss entertaining at our home and are hopeful that we can have a large welcome back party for our family and friends when we get the “all clear” on the pandemic.
What is your dream vacation?
I have been fortunate enough to travel quite a bit in my adult life, but nothing beats a sunny beach in Mexico. I miss travel so much and can’t wait to go somewhere warm and far away with my husband when it’s safe to travel.
What values do you live by?
1. The answer is always "no" unless you ask
2. Hard work pays off.
3. Keep trying.
4. There are no failures, just opportunities to learn and grow.
5. Be grateful and appreciative.
6. Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. Long story short, we are all in different places in life and in business.
To contact Heather, visit HeatherSrodekHomes.com or email her at HeatherSrodek@HowardHanna.com.
