Buying or selling a home can be exciting, but it can also be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. With so many moving parts, from finances to timing, people often look for steady guidance. This is where leadership in real estate makes all the difference. When realtors lead with mindfulness, meaning they stay present, manage stress and show empathy, clients feel more supported and communities become stronger.

Leading with presence

On a recent episode of TRREB’s Ready to Real Estate podcast, TRREB’s Chief Information Officer Jason Mercer spoke with Dr. Ellen Choi, a leading mental health researcher and professor. She shared how presence helps leaders manage stress with calm, support their teams more effectively and provide better care to clients.

For buyers and sellers, that presence can be felt in every interaction. It might be the realtor who takes time to walk you through the fine print without rushing, or the one who listens carefully when you explain what matters most to you or your family.

Turning awareness into action

Dr. Choi described mindfulness as understanding your emotions, regulating your responses and focusing on a greater purpose. In real estate, that translates into moments where clients feel seen and cared for.

As she explained, “You can connect with a client in order to get the deal done, or you can connect with a client and change their whole day.” That kind of care can transform a stressful step in the homebuying or selling journey into a positive and even memorable experience.

The ripple effect on communities

The impact of mindful leadership extends beyond individual transactions. When realtors bring empathy and calm into their work, it builds trust not only between clients and professionals but also across neighbourhoods. People feel more confident in their decisions, more connected to their community, and more certain that the real estate process is fair and transparent.

Dr. Choi also noted that mindful leadership begins with self-care. Leaders who take the time to recharge and reflect set a tone that benefits everyone around them. Clients working with professionals who bring focus and patience to the table experience a steadier and more supportive process, even in challenging markets.

Choosing intention over reaction

Mindful leadership is not about perfection. It is about presence. When realtors lead with awareness and compassion, they not only strengthen their businesses, they create better experiences for the people they serve and contribute to more resilient communities.

To hear more from Dr. Ellen Choi and to explore other conversations on market trends, tools, and leadership, listen to Ready to Real Estate at trreb.ca.