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Success in the New York real estate market often requires a unique blend of empathy and endurance. For Marie Asher, a "realtor extraordinaire" serving Massapequa Park and the surrounding areas for over 20 years, those skills were forged during her previous career as a nurse. Today, she applies that same level of care to guiding families through one of the most emotional transitions of their lives.
In this episode of the Work Hard, Play Hard, Give Back podcast, Mike Litzner explores Marie's "aha moment" in the Levittown office, her strategies for balancing life as a single mother, and her influential role as Chairman of the Family Services Committee for the Heart of American Homes foundation.
See It to Be It: The Power of Visualization
Marie's entry into real estate at age 42 was driven by a need for flexibility to care for her ailing grandmother [00:01:02]. However, the first year was a challenge. Her turning point came when she refused to fail in front of her children, setting a bold goal to sell 20 houses in 12 months. She ended up selling 22 [00:01:50].
"If you see it, you'll be it," Marie explains. This mindset allowed her to master the fundamentals of the business quickly. She emphasizes that while real estate school teaches you to pass a test, the true education happens on the ground—often by assisting top producers and showing up for every training session possible [00:15:43].
Pro Tip: Don't be a "secret agent." Your sphere of influence is your greatest asset. Tell everyone what you do, and if you're new, don't be afraid to partner with a veteran who can provide the experience your clients deserve [00:13:04].
Managing the Emotional Transaction
Real estate is rarely just about bricks and mortar; it's about managing major life changes like divorce, estate sales, or growing families. Marie views her role as providing emotional support and preparation to make clients feel comfortable [00:06:31].
With over 70 testimonials on her website, Marie's reputation is built on her willingness to do whatever it takes—even if it means "cleaning the toilet" before a showing to ensure her clients' homes look their best [00:06:13]. For home sellers, this personal touch is what transforms a stressful process into a successful closing.
The Heart of American Homes: Local Impact
As the 2019 Humanitarian of the Year, Marie's true passion is giving back. She leads the Family Services Committee for the Heart of American Homes, an internal foundation that has completed nearly 200 missions since 2017 [00:29:02].
The foundation provides direct, localized aid for families facing crisis, such as house fires, terminal illness, or sudden loss. Unlike national charities, 100% of the funds raised go back to the community, as the foundation has no paid employees and is housed rent-free within CBAM offices [00:31:34].
A Haven at the Ronald McDonald House
Recently, Marie organized a team from the Massapequa Park office to serve brunch at the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park [00:24:22]. This "haven" supports families whose children are being treated at Cohen Children's Hospital, providing them with food, shelter, and a supportive community during their darkest hours.
"It just was a beautiful, loving atmosphere," Marie recalls [00:26:21]. This commitment to service is a core part of the culture at Coldwell Banker American Homes, where agents regularly contribute a portion of their commission checks to ensure the foundation is always ready to help [00:29:09].
Community Insight: Giving back doesn't always require money. Whether it's donating blood or volunteering time, there is a way for everyone to be a humanitarian. Start by connecting with a local office to see how you can help.
Whether you're looking to buy your first home or need a veteran's guidance to sell a long-time family residence, Marie Asher's mix of nursing-level care and real estate expertise is the "North Star" you need.
Ready to see your home's potential? Get an instant CB Estimate today.