Keeping it real: An interview with Dawn M. Seabaugh, association executive with the Cape Girardeau County Board of Realtors

Dawn M. Seabaugh began her career in real estate about six years ago at the suggestion of a friend. This spring, she stepped up to a new role as association executive at the Cape Girardeau County Board of Realtors. With her background in banking, small business and teaching, she's been able to apply a variety of skills and experiences to her new job. Seabaugh -- who lives in Perryville, Missouri, and graduated from Southeast Missouri State University -- also enjoys the opportunity to work in the same place she grew up and went to school. Here, she sheds light on how the Board of Realtors works and her hopes for the organization:

BT: How did you get into the real estate business and what do you enjoy about it?

Dawn M. Seabaugh: About six years ago I left a career in banking to pursue a career in teaching. At that same time, someone suggested I consider real estate as a secondary income opportunity. As my business grew, I realized that homebuyers and sellers needed me just as much as the kids I wanted to teach, so I stuck with it. Most of my life I've worked in service-oriented positions. Helping others provides a sense of self-worth. That's enjoyable! And it's rewarding to help with such an important part of someone's life. I enjoyed the challenge of finding the right property for the right buyer and I loved promoting properties, whether it was a diamond in the rough or a shining star.

BT: What did you learn in your "past life" in banking, and how did you apply it to your real estate career?

DS: My ability to communicate well with a diverse group of people has been most beneficial in my real estate career. Also, almost every real estate transaction hits a bump in the road. I've utilized every problem-solving technique possible. In banking, I learned you don't mess with people's money! It's just the same in real estate. Buying or selling a home is possibly the largest investment we make. I took my responsibility in the process very seriously. Honesty was always the best policy. In my current position as executive with the board office, I'll rely more on my business management and accounting background. My responsibilities are now to the Realtor organization and to helping my Realtor friends, rather than property owners.

BT: What are your top goals in your new position with the Board of Realtors?

DS: To offer exceptional service and valuable benefits to our members, to increase our participation in the community, to establish a presence in local government and to promote awareness of the Realtor organization. You'll know a Realtor when you see one!

BT: What is something most people don't know about the Board of Realtors, but should?

DS: Not all real estate agents are Realtors. A real estate licensee must choose to join the Realtor organization. When they choose to be Realtors, they promise to adhere to the National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. The Cape Girardeau County Board of Realtors is a nonprofit corporation established nearly 60 years ago by members of this community. Our territory includes Cape Girardeau, Bollinger, Perry and a section of Scott County. Realtor members volunteer their time to help govern the organization. Consumer protection and political advocacy are two of our top priorities. Realtors also give back to the community through charitable projects and donations.

BT: What is your favorite thing about working in real estate in Southeast Missouri?

DS: It's been home all my life. We have great communities and good people!

BT: What do you like to do when you're not working?

DS: My son is involved in school sports, so I spend quite a bit of time watching football, baseball and basketball. My Realtor friends will hate me for saying this: I watch HGTV. I love to learn about cultural differences in home styles and architecture. I'm also fascinated with rehab projects. I'm also running, and I'm trying to like it.