Natalka Palmer, Harcourts The Garner Group

Since 1991, Natalka has held a Realtor license in Bend, Oregon. Presently, she serves as the Managing Principal Broker for Harcourts The Garner Group Real Estate. Her approach to real estate goes beyond merely closing deals; she aims to create a memorable and positive experience for her clients. Her guiding business principle revolves around offering communicative, personalized, and competent service. 

Natalka actively contributes to the real estate community by participating in the Grievance and Professional Standards committees at the Central Oregon Association of Realtors. Moreover, she holds the position of a local State Director for Oregon Realtors and is slated to be part of the Oregon Realtors Professional Standards in 2023. Passionate about the industry, Natalka is dedicated to assisting real estate agents in excelling. She firmly believes that one's attitude and gratitude shape their future, urging others to take responsibility for creating the life they desire and crafting their unique story.

Q & A with Natalka

IW: What would you do during a typical day?  

NATALKA: My day kicks off at 8:00 AM.  During the first hour, I spend my time catching up on emails and touching base with our marketing and transaction department, ensuring we’re aligned on the day’s objectives.  As the day progresses, my door remains open to welcome agents who come and go, sharing their successes and seeking guidance. It’s a dynamic environment where questions are encouraged, and I gladly provide answers and support throughout. 

One of my key responsibilities is to meticulously review all listing and sales contracts to ensure strict compliance. This attention to detail ensures that we operate within the legal framework and maintain the highest standards of professionalism.  Moreover, one aspect of my role that brings me immense joy is training our new agents. Drawing from my extensive 32 years of experience in the industry, I relish the opportunity to impart knowledge and skills to the next generation of real estate professionals. It’s a fulfilling experience that allows me to contribute to their growth and development. 

IW: How did you get into this industry?  

NATALKA: Back in 1991, a significant chapter of my life began as I relocated to Bend, Oregon with my one-year-old son. Seeking a career that would allow me to balance being a devoted, single mother while also earning a substantial income, I embarked on a journey of exploration.  As fate would have it, my search for a flexible job led me to a serendipitous discovery. A large advertisement caught my eye in the local paper. Boldly proclaiming, “Get your real estate license in 90 days!” Intrigued by the possibilities, I embarked on a path that would change the course of my life. 

My real estate instructor recruited me to represent one of the top brokerages in the area. It was an exhilarating time, with each day presenting new challenges and opportunities which have pushed me to where I am today.

IW: What do you enjoy most about your job?

NATALKA:  Every facet of my job brings me immense joy and fulfilment, but there are certain aspects that resonate with me on a deeper level. Among them, the most gratifying part is the opportunity to educate agents to stay abreast of the ever-evolving rules and regulations within our industry. Sharing my knowledge and expertise to help agents grow and succeed is incredibly rewarding. Witnessing their professional development and seeing them achieve their goals brings a sense of fulfilment that is hard to put into words. It’s a privilege to be able to guide them, ignite their passion, and help them uncover the inherent value and purpose of our work.  Ultimately, my role extends beyond mere guidance and instruction: it’s about guiding agents to recognize the profound impact and meaning behind what we do. By helping them see the light in our profession, I aim to cultivate a collective sense of purpose and inspire a shared commitment to excellence. 

IW: What is the most challenging part of your job?  

NATALKA:   The biggest challenge I face in my job is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Being constantly available to assist the agents at any given moment can be demanding. However, I have willingly chosen this path and remain fully dedicated to it.

IW: What advice would you give others that are looking to move into this industry?

NATALKA: If someone is considering a career in real estate, here is the advice I would offer: First and foremost, make sure you have a well-funded savings account that can support you for at least six months. Additionally, it’s crucial to find a brokerage that is experienced and capable of supporting newly licensed agents. One thing people often don’t realize is that real estate school primarily focuses on theoretical knowledge, while practical, day-to-day sales skills are acquired through hands-on experience in the field. In the realm of real estate, you will wear multiple hats, including those of a guide, friend, advisor, and leader. It is a rewarding career, but it requires a special individual who is a self-starter and possesses qualities such as patience and the ability to take charge.  Additionally, I highly recommend getting actively involved in your local real estate board. Consider serving on a committee as it offers an invaluable opportunity to gain rapid insights into our profession. By participating in our association, you not only enhance your understanding of our work but also have the chance to connect with fellow industry professionals.  There are endless possibilities for success in real estate, and the level of achievement is directly proportional to the effort and dedication you invest.