An effective communicator
With a strong professional background in corporate communications and managing people, Diane Hafter came to the world of real estate two years ago with the goal of keeping her client’s needs front and center.
“It’s so important to be a good listener. My job (in corporate communications) was taking information and making it understandable to all levels of people,” said Hafter, whose last job before starting with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties was with Boehringer Ingelheim.
Hafter said she works hard out of Berkshire’s Norwalk offices to “listen and understand my clients. I like carrying it forward and always looking out for their interest.”
Working at Berkshire, Hafter said has made her job that much easier.
“It’s such a great company and brand that I wanted to hang my hat there and be associated with them.” Hafter said. “More importantly is the teamwork and wonderful support I get from my colleagues. The agents there share and there’s great camaraderie. It’s a vibrant office.”
Hafter, who grew up on both the East and West coasts, said easing the stress that almost every client has is paramount for her.
“I’m the calming force,” she said. “It’s emotional on both sides, the buyers and the sellers, and I work on taking the emotion out of it. For me, it’s more than just buying or selling a house, I like advocating for people.”
Working with first-time buyers, she said, is a real joy and privilege.
“When they finally get the key, that is when the Champagne comes out,” Hafter said. “It’s helping them through the process from beginning to end. There are so many steps and I need to clearly communicate every step for them. I’m there to give guidance and support.”
Hafter works in Fairfield County coastal communities with a focus on Norwalk, where more than 50 percent of her business is done.