The Virtual Perception would like to welcome Laura Monroe of Creative Agent Solutions, who took a moment to share her experiences about being a Virtual Assistant for our Q&A series.

How did you start your VA business?

I worked as an in-office marketing coordinator for a top producing Keller Williams Broker Team for 2 years. I had sort-of fallen into it part-time but quickly fell in love with real estate and marketing. I learned all I could while not working, and although sales was in the back of my mind, I knew I was the happiest helping the team. The Team Lead and I both took Michael Russer’s courses, now known as The Online Dominance program, and learned about real estate Virtual Assistants. A light bulb when off in my head when I realized that I was essentially doing many of the same things as a VA and the thought of becoming an entrepreneur and doing it myself seemed like a match made in heaven. And..it still is. I researched other successful REVA’s and VA’s, joined VA Forums for info and support, and worked to form a business of my own.

How did you figure out what to charge for your services?

I researched what other VA’s were charging, knew what I was capable of doing in services, and went up a bit from my own hourly wage initially..enough to cover any taxes, my website and other marketing expenses. From there I have raised my rates to a comfortable limit.

How did you find your first clients?

My first clients were the Brokers that I had started with..I was lucky enough to already be filling the shoes of a VA before I even took on the role of business owner. From there it increased by referrals, as well as my online marketing efforts with my website, and blogs.

How long did it take you to build your clientele?

It took me only about a year to have my solid number of clients, to find my “ideal clients”. I do a lot of project design work so have many part-time clients as well.

How many hours per week do you usually work?

Well, its hard to say and varies week to week. My billable hours average 20 a week, and I put in about 5-10 of networking, marketing and learning on top of that. Some weeks obviously are shorter than others.

Do you find being a VA provides you flexibility when you need it, especially family or hobbies?

Most of the time. I must admit that it can be a challenge to balance clients, their schedules and my schedule. At times it feels like you are working 5 jobs at a time. BUT, once you learn how to stick to your boundaries, have some help, it is the best of both worlds to be in control of your own schedule.

Do you have a specific niche or specialized target market you typically provide services for? If so, what is your niche and how did you choose it?

Well, when I started in real estate I didn’t consider any other niches other than real estate.. however, desktop publishing and marketing , and online marketing quickly became what I loved the most, and felt stronger doing. I still try to build on that.

What is your favorite thing about being a VA?

I love being in control of my own destiny, my growth and my success, as well as partnering up to help others achieve the same. Going to work every day knowing there are NO LIMITS to the possibilities I am capable of creating for myself makes coming to work very exciting and fulfilling. Not only that; but the support from the VA Industry is almost unmatched! The virtual support from others who are steps ahead of me is wonderful.

Do you have an advice for new VAs or those thinking about joining the VA world?

Before jumping into the work of being VA, learn about being a small business owner, and set yourself up for success. Examine the different business models that attract you and create something in your business that helps you stand out among all others, and is fun for you to maintain. Jump in with both feet by having lots of information, ask lots of questions and enjoy being yourself!

Laura is also the Founder of the Real Estate Virtual Assistant Group on Active Rain Real Estate Network, an active Blogger, and author of: Real Estate Virtual Assistants: The Ultimate Guide

Direct: 916.343.3823  Toll Free: 800.570.3743