Interview with Margaret Yost, Coldwell Banker Top 1%

Q: How long have you been in the business?
MY: I’ve been selling real estate for almost 30 years, so clearly, I love what I am doing!

Q: What geographic areas and type of properties do you handle?
MY: We do a lot of business in Almaden Valley, but we also want to help our clients or people that they refer to us with their real estate needs in surrounding areas of Silicon Valley. We’ve sold everything from a modest townhome to a 9000-square foot luxury home.

Q: What sets us apart from other agents?
MY: I think our clients really like our experience, our focus, and our results! They also tell us that they like our team, both our family team and the team of professionals that are at the office. We have complimentary talents that are helpful. David has a much more computer savvy brain than I do. My daughter, Kim, is also a licensed realtor with young children in the local school so she is an invaluable link to the local community. My husband, Bob, is a computer scientist and experienced photographer. At the office, we also have colleagues that help us deliver the best possible service. A team of dedicated professionals can really make a difference in the results.

Q: What designations do you hold?
MY: I am a member of the Santa Clara Board of Realtors, Coldwell Banker’s International President’s Premier, Top 1 %, and a Previews agent, which is a designation for luxury homes sales.

Q: What percentage of your clients are buyers vs. sellers?
MY: About 75 percent of our business is sellers and 25 percent buyers.

Q: What are some of your favorite interests and hobbies that you enjoy?
MY: More than anything, my husband and I love to spend free time with our four grandchildren. Although it may be exhausting, they make life a lot more fun and interesting. I also love to travel to faraway places. Closer to home, we enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Lake Tahoe. I enjoy my gym buddie’s early morning and I love to take walks on the scenic trails near our home.

Q: If you could talk to one person from history, who would it be and why?
MY: Like a lot of people I’d love to talk to our Founding Fathers. My book club is reading the book about Alexander Hamilton so I think it would be fun to talk to him personally.

Q: What is one thing you change about San Jose?
MY: I wish so much San Jose had BART!

Q: Who's your favorite TV or Movie star?
MY: We always seem to enjoy the period pieces like Downtown Abbey. We also seem attracted to series that stars Kiefer Sutherland.

Q: If you could give a 16-year-old advice what would it be?
MY: I would tell a 16-year-old that education, hard work and persistence are the keys to success.

Also, I’d say that if you love what you’re doing, chances are you will be very good at that job. Be open to many professional opportunities. I never expected to be a realtor; so, I feel lucky that I found a career that is interesting, enjoyable, and meaningful.