Becky Etzel

What is your favorite thing about being a real estate agent? I thrive on helping Buyers, Sellers, and Investors realize their real estate goals. Those goals aren't just transactions - they are changes in people's lives. I feel so fortunate to help my clients with those transitions.
On top of that, I am thrilled that my clients often become good friends too. How lucky am I!!!

What do you love most about living in Louisiana/Lafayette? What I love most about Lafayette and the Acadiana area is definitely the people. As cliche as it sounds, their joie de vivre was a driving force in our choosing to return to Lafayette! We have moved often and Lafayette is the only place we've lived in twice, and it's where we have chosen to make our permanent home. People truly care about each other and support all that Acadiana offers!

Name one thing you wish every buyer knew (elaborate if necessary) A few basic things Buyers may not know but should are: 1) Realtors get paid out of the sale of the property - not in addition to and not until the sale closes. 2) Your Realtor represents YOU and can show any houses on the market as well as FSBO properties. 3) The right Realtor will save the Buyer time and effort in finding the best property. 4) A Real Estate Expert is trained and experienced in negotiation to make sure the Buyer doesn't leave unnecessary money on the table. A home is often a Buyer's greatest investment - working with a professional is wise!

Name one thing you wish every seller knew (elaborate if necessary) A few things Sellers may not know but should are: 1) Realtors do not get paid until a property sells. 2) Selling a house is so much more than putting a sign on the property and waiting for a call. The right Realtor knows the market, makes sure the property is prepared to be sold, knows how to best promote a property, and is a skilled negotiator.
3) Working with a Real Estate Expert statistically will gain the Seller 16-30% more money than selling by owner. 4) Real Estate is usually one of the biggest investments a person has. When selling, it makes sense to partner with a professional Realtor to get the property SOLD at the best price and time for the Seller.

Why did you become a real estate agent? Wow! This sounds sappy but those who know me know how true it is: Two driving forces for me are helping others and learning. Whether seeing those "light bulb" moments in middle school and high school students or being a part of college students getting into wonderful industry positions, my reward was always being a part of their success. Also, I am one of those people who embraces change. I knew I wanted to continue making a positive impact in people's lives but I needed a new challenge. After a long visit with Jim Keaty, there no doubt my new career path would be real estate. I've been so happy with this change. Now, my joy comes from providing my clients with expert advice to achieve their real estate goals and making new friends along the way!