Kathya Masis Reda is a real estate agent with Platinum Properties International in Miami Beach.

What was your first job in the realty industry?
I got a taste for real estate when purchasing my first property. I enjoyed my experience with my Realtor and the process so much, and decided that I wanted to be in the industry myself. Eight months later, I started my first job as sales associate for Coldwell Banker.

Where did you grow up?
I’m a Miami-native. I spend stints in New York time to time, but always call South Florida home.

What is your favorite free-time activity?
I love the ocean. When I snag a free moment, you can find me at the beach getting sun or taking in all the scenery with a walk.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
A quick escape to the spa to get a manicure or massage always does the trick!

Growing up, what did you want to be?
Growing up, I somehow convinced my parents to take in multiple pets. Playing veterinarian was definitely a favorite childhood past-time – luckily, my furry friends were good sports about it.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be?
I would love to have lunch with real estate tycoon Barbara Corcoran. I admire her ability to work from the ground-up in building her empire. There’s definitely plenty to learn from her.

Where is your favorite place to hang out?
My favorite place to hang out is somewhere casual with a fun and relaxed atmosphere, like Burgers and Beer in South Beach.

What do you love most about the industry?
I love showing properties. South Florida has some many unique homes, and I love seeing how people incorporate their own flair within a space. I then enjoy the challenge of matching the property’s and prospect’s personalities, and finding my client that perfect dream home.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I would do anything for my clients, and it’s clear to them that I’m committed to them and their needs. I’m not afraid to speak up and fight the tough battles on their behalf.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Real estate can be very emotional for both buyers and sellers. The market continues to recover, but sometimes clients expect unrealistic numbers when selling their homes. My job is to get clients what they want, but sometimes, I also have to deliver the news they don’t want to hear. The market determines what the house value is worth…and sometimes that number is below what is desired.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
Most of my clients are through recommendations. As a licensed realtor in New York, I also have a large base in that region, which sometimes spills over into South Florida when they look to secure a second home or investment opportunity. With foreign nationals representing a huge influence, I also do advertising overseas.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment was this year in negotiating a deal on a home that was originally listed for $6 million. I represented the buyer, was able to negotiate the deal to $3.25 million and even got the seller to throw in his yacht to sweeten the deal. That made my client very happy.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
“50 Shades of Grey”….Just Kidding!!! Actually, I recently saw 21 Jump Street and thought it was a great movie. If you want to just laugh and have a fun time, I highly recommend it.

What is your favorite restaurant?
Casa Tua at The James Hotel in South Beach. They’ve pulled off the perfect dining trifecta of good food, quality service and a beautiful, sultry ambiance.

What is your favorite building in Miami?
The beautiful and historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. I love the Spanish-inspired architecture. The vaulted ceilings, the curved arches, the marble columns and the 90-foot tower – it’s all so very elegant.

What kind of car do you drive?
The 2012 Lexus 350. It’s spacious and comfortable for when I have clients with me.

Smartphone, or paper?
Smartphone all the way! It’s my all-in-one go-to for email, scheduling, research and useful apps. Plus, I can pull up the information quickly and remotely, which is vital in this industry.

What is your favorite city after Miami?
I lived in New York City for a few years and it captured my heart immediately. I’m also a licensed real estate agent in New York, so I have a good excuse to get back up there from time to time.

What is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Be committed, patient, knowledgeable and accountable. Most importantly, set goals!

What’s your favorite Real Estate iPhone/ Blackberry app?
Realtor.com has a great app to get up to speed on homes for sale, open houses and recently sold properties.

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter?
I’m actually not on Twitter. But you can find me on Facebook, LinkedIn and Trulia. I do follow TheDailyMortgageAdvisor.com to keep up to date on critical mortgage-related information.

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