Lisa Donatelli - Douglas Elliman Real Estate

1.  Tell us about your business. Where are you located and how long have you been there? 

I am a full-time real estate agent with Douglas Elliman Real Estate, affiliated with both the Port Washington and Manhasset offices since 2013. I help people find the next right home for them, anywhere in the USA and beyond- although mostly on the North Shore.

 

2. Why did you choose to open your business in Port Washington?

In addition to loving this area, I was tired of commuting to Manhattan. 

 

3. How does your business stand apart from others? 

Having had former careers as a registered representative/investment advisor, mortgage broker, and teacher, I have had a lot of experience keeping drama to a minimum and results to a maximum. Plus, I am married to a real estate attorney so I have been hearing war stories for many years, and am aware of pitfalls that not every agent knows. 

 

4. What would you like people to know about your business? 

In particular, Douglas Elliman is a well-organized company that supports its salespeople with copious education and a strong referral network across the country as well as worldwide, easing your search for a home anywhere. Locally, agents are important because we find the right buyers for sellers, and we save buyers time by vetting homes in advance. We aid negotiations and follow up, bringing resources and parties together to make a sale happen.  Two other things: Agents don't set sales prices; the market does. Second, absolutely every property will sell- at the right price. 

 

5. What tip can you share with someone just starting out in the business? 

No matter what, make at least 5 new prospecting calls 5 days a week and follow up. Get appointments. You should work with others at least in the beginning to acquire expertise. 

 

6. What do you like most about Port Washington?

It's an easy place to live because of the train line, highly-rated schools and cultural centers like the Landmark Theater, the PW Library, Sands Point Preserve and the wonderful golf and yacht clubs. However, I mostly love my friends here, and the true concern and active civic spirit I have experienced. 

 

7. Why do you support the Port Washington Chamber of Commerce? 

In a time of great challenges for commercial and retail business, The PWCOC exemplifies civic spirit by creating networking opportunities and running big events like the SOUPerbowl (Feb 1) and Harborfest (June 7). Many who join the PWCOC are creative and welcoming people who care about the welfare of Port Washington and our larger Long Island community.

 

8. What would people be surprised to know about you?

I come from a family of musicians and am a vocalist in a cover rock and roll band, the South Bay Salty Dogs. We performed last year at Harborfest 2019. We started out singing on the back of a sailboat in 2007 and the rest is history. Many of us happen to be sailors, an activity I highly recommend. Once you experience boating on Long Island Sound, you will never want to stop.