How did you get your start in the business of real estate? I was a single mother of three young children and I had to work. Fortunately, my neighbor suggested that I would be a good real estate agent. She thought I had the right sales ability and really encouraged me.
What’s your secret sauce for success? Hard work; I keep in close touch with my clients through the lost art of the telephone call and routinely go the extra mile for them, often doing things others are not willing to in order to help them.
Tell us about some of your most exciting sales? I sold Jerry Jeff Walker a place in the French Quarter. Afterwards, I went with his wife to London to help them find a flat there. I ended up becoming very good friends with Jerry and his wife, Susan, through the experience. Jerry even gave several concerts at my home, which was so special for my children and their friends.
What sale are you most proud of? I represented both buyer and seller in the highest sale ever in New Orleans. It was a majestic home on St. Charles Avenue with Romanesque architecture, a true landmark.
Do you have any properties right now that are really special? I have many fabulous listings, but three really special homes come to mind: 620 Ursulines Ave. in the French Quarter, which is the highest listing in the city; 2507 Prytania St., a Garden District mansion once owned by Ella Brennan; and 3711 St. Charles Ave., Anne Rice’s former home.
Is there anything else you’d like to share? My career in real estate has been about the people – meeting new and exciting people and helping them to achieve their goals.
Eleanor Farnsworth, Gardner Realtors, 2727 Prytania St., Suite 15, 891-1142, cell: 669-0211, EleanorFarnsworth.com.
