Local Business Spotlight: Debbie Mackenzie Realty

Welcome back to our weekly business spotlight, where we highlight businesses that operate in Windham or service the community.

This week we spoke with Debbie Mackenzie of Debbie Mackenzie Realty & Associates, a Windham resident who also serves as a realtor for nearby towns such as Londonderry, Derry, Litchfield, Hudson and Salem.

Here is our Q&A:

Windham Patch: How long have you lived in Windham and how long has your business been in operation?

Mackenzie: I was born in Windham and have lived here most of my 49 years. I was first licensed as a Realtor in 1994 and obtained my Brokers license in 2005. I opened Debbie Mackenzie Realty in 2006. I have three agents in the office and am always looking to hire other agents.

Windham Patch: How did you get into this line of work?

Mackenzie: My relatives own Prudential Dinsmore Real Estate and I worked for them in my early 20's as a weekend receptionist. I had always been in sales, having owned and operated a cleaning company for almost 18 years. It seemed a natural fit for me.

Windham Patch: What about your personality caters well to the real estate profession.

Mackenzie: I love helping people!  This is not a job to me. I love what I do! I am passionate about continuing education, community service, and follow up. If I am not up to date on the state laws and/or contracts, how can I best serve my customers? Customers and clients want results, whether it's a return phone call right away or a resolution to an issue.  I am a get it done person. Procrastination has no room in my life! I need to get the job done and move on to the next!

Windham Patch: For somebody looking to crack into the real estate profession, what is the first thing that they should know or be prepared for?

Mackenzie: Real Estate is not a quick buck! If you are not connected into your community or know many, many people, it will be extremely difficult. It takes time to gain the confidence of people for them to trust you with their business. It's a major financial purchase or sale and unseasoned agents need experience. I suggest they not leave their current job, either. Start out part time and gain experience or work with a seasoned agent as a partner. It's important to have as much continuing education as you can, to best service your customers and clients.

Windham Patch: What is your favorite thing about doing what you do?

Mackenzie: Writing offers! But, I love it all, I love showing houses or rentals. I love assisting with the negotiating and knowing that I helped.  I will show as many houses to a buyer as they want to see. It's about them, not me. I want them to be happy.

Windham Patch: In the past, how have you or your business interacted with other businesses or the community?

Mackenzie: I have worked directly with other businesses in town, holding raffles to benefit the community. I have organized the Love Thy Neighbor(hood) program through the Windham Presbyterian Church Outreach Community, which I chair.  This group of volunteers help families in Windham who have a physical or financial need for work in and around their homes. Our next project day is April 14th with 11 projects scheduled and over 70 volunteers. I volunteer my time to the Windham Recreation Department events throughout the year. I serve on the Shephards Pantry Board, and serve on several committees at the Windham Presbyterian Church. I have been involved with the Windham Actors Guild as a founding member and board member, as well as acting in their plays. My heart is in this community. I want to give back as much as I can.

Windham Patch: How important is it for residents to support their local businesses?

Mackenzie: It's very important for residents to show local businesses their support, especially when a business cares so much for the community. They can show support through direct use or referring others. My best compliment is when I get a call from a potential Buyer or Seller saying I was referred by a friend of theirs. I know that person trusts how I do my business and that I care.