An interview with Marin Coldsmith: Turning real estate goals into reality

Dedicated agent with Iron Valley Real Estate of Chambersburg

Years with company/firm: 2.5

Years in field: 7

Years in real estate industry: 7

Real estate organizations/affiliations: Property Investor/Property Manager

Tell us how and when you began your career in the profession you are in:

I began real estate back in 2018 when I was looking to embark on a career journey that I was passionate about. My husband and I started investing in long term real estate rentals in 2017 when we got married, and I quickly developed a passion for real estate. That passion grew from not only real estate investing, but helping clients buy and sell real estate and guide them through the journey.

What is your current position: I am currently a real estate agent with Iron Valley Real Estate of Chambersburg, as well as an owner/manager of our personal rental properties (Nathan and Marin Coldsmith dba “Coldsmith Capital”)

Why did you choose the field/profession you are in today? My husband and I were already investing in real estate, and it made sense to jump in to the real estate profession. I was working in customer service at the time in a corporate position and I wasn’t fulfilled. I wanted to do something that gave me freedom and flexibility, but more importantly, something that I LOVED to do. My dad always said “find something you love to do and you’ll never ‘work’ a day in your life.”

What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2024? 2024 was a successful year. It was the biggest year of real estate sales, in gross volume and commission. I also stepped into property management full time to develop systems we could use to continue to grow our own rentals.

What was your most notable project, deal, or transaction in 2024? I helped a client sell their home that they had purchased in 2022. They bought the home sight unseen (trusted my vision to choose their home for them as they were relocating from out of state!), completely transformed the space, and then resold just two years later for just under $100,000 more than they bought it.

How do you manage the work/life balance? As a busy mom of 2 boys that are 2 and under, I prioritize my family, but also my clients. The boys join me for showings, settlements, and client meetings. I want to show them how important it is to love what you do, work with integrity, and serve others well. We always celebrate as a family whenever we close a deal.

Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career? My husband has definitely been the strongest influence. He has encouraged me from day 1, and works alongside me in this industry. He always keeps my perspective clear, encourages me to dream bigger and find new innovative ways to stand out, and makes sure that I always have what I need to be the best agent and property manager I can be!

What impact has social media/networking had on your business? Social media has opened up countless opportunities to connect with clients, local businesses, and industry professionals to build and grow relationships in ways that otherwise may not be possible. I love connecting with people on social media and sharing bits and pieces of our lives – especially how you can have a successful business/career while being a mom.

What were some of your early goals and did anything happen in your career /profession to enhance or change them? One of my earliest goals was to get out of corporate America. I was able to do that, and haven’t looked back since. I readjust my goals yearly and am always striving to grow and stand out.

What unique qualities and/or personality do you feel makes you most successful in your profession? I absolutely love people – I love connecting with people, hearing their stories, and bringing their dreams to light. I am a visionary, so helping people see their future in homes we show, giving advice on home décor/remodeling, and truly just being down to earth. I always work with integrity and honesty and my work is so much deeper than a paycheck – I’m always client focused. That will never change and I love that those things have continued to prove that I will stay successful in this career and be a part of others’ real estate stories.

What challenges and/or obstacles do you feel you needed to overcome to become as successful as you are today? I had to overcome feeling like I was in competition with other agents. We are all doing what we can to be our best and serve OUR clients the best – they’re not my competition, they’re really my coworkers and I love getting to bring deals together with them.

What was the most defining moment for you in the profession you are currently in? I’ve had a lot of defining moments, but the most defining moment was when I was put in my first TOUGH spot in a transaction – the deal was going to blow apart and I HAD to get creative. Real estate is a profession where you HAVE to think outside the box and get strategic.

Do you feel being a woman is an advantage, disadvantage or no advantage in today’s business world? Why? Why not? I see it being both an advantage and a disadvantage. The advantage is – you’re relatable as a woman. I feel it’s easier to share stories as a woman and use my life lessons to share with clients. The relationships and how women can work with people allow us.