Monica Harvey is a Realtor for EWM Realty International in Miami Beach.
What was your first job in the realty industry?
A Realtor, and I’m the same thing 20 years later. My husband at the time knew somebody who was a Realtor, and thought it would be a good fit for me.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Chile, and moved to the U.S. when I was 16.
What is your favorite free-time activity?
I like football, knitting, hip hop, going to the beach, swimming and all kinds of sports – not for me to play, but for me to watch.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I meditate.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
I wanted to be either a journalist or a civil rights attorney.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
There are many. But one would be Malcolm X. He was a brilliant man and ahead of the times. I’d just like to pick his brain.
Where is your favorite place to hang out?
My home.
What do you love most about the industry?
I like the challenge of finding the perfect home for every client. I like more working with buyers than with sellers because of that challenge.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I’ve been around the block a few times – I’m a little older and I’ve had a lot of life experience. I can relate to people really well. When I meet clients, I always end up becoming friends with them and we have a very open, comfortable relationship. There are a lot of people who are more technologically advanced than me, but I really have a good rapport with people and I can handle anybody. I’m not scared of anybody.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
There’s a lot of competition. This is such a small community, and there are way too many agents. It’s a constant battle, especially for listings.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
When I was a little younger a few years ago, I used to go out a lot: restaurants, clubs, all kinds of places. I actually never leave my house without my business cards – I think I carry them in my own house! I give them to everybody. I used to network a lot more than I do now. But now, most of my clients really come from referrals. I should go out more though.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
In my personal life, I’d say my kids – I have two daughters and love them to death. In business, I survived 20 years of working on my own, without an assistant, and I’ve done quite well.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
I just saw “The Heat.” It wasn’t the best movie I’ve ever seen, but it was pretty funny. I’m currently reading a book called “The New Jim Crow,” by Michelle Alexander.
What is your favorite restaurant?
Michaels Genuine in Miami.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami?
I like Apogee and Continuum mostly for the location. Architecturally, this new project called Faena is going to be my favorite, but it’s not finished yet.
What kind of car do you drive?
I drive a Toyota Highlander.
Smartphone or Paper?
I use my smartphone, but I still can’t live without my post-it notes. I use both though.
What is your favorite city after Miami?
San Francisco, CA.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Tell everyone you know that you’re a Realtor.
What’s your favorite Real Estate iPhone/ Blackberry app?
I’m a Google freak. It’s not a specific real estate app, but I Google everything and everyone.
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter?
I have a very large variety of people I follow: Kevin Hart, Chris Rock, Miami Agent magazine, other agents, politicians – all kinds of people.