Mashel Fleming is a former real estate professional and recent graduate of Staffcentrix.com’s MSVA Program that trains military spouses to be highly effective Virtual Assistants. Read on to see how Mashel’s extensive and unique real estate experience (gained while traveling around the country) can catapult you to the next level of success!

MI: I understand that you are a new graduate of StaffCentrix's Military Spouse Virtual Assistant (MSVA) program --Congratulations!

MF: Thank you very much.

MI: Share with our readers a bit about the MSVA program and what the course covers.

MF: The Military Spouse Virtual Assistant program was designed to help military spouses create a work environment from home that is portable and complimentary to their spouses' military career. During the course, we covered how to start a professional virtual assistance home business, and ways to market yourself to the virtual community.

MI: What kind of skill sets are covered and is there an exam to make sure certain standards are met?

MF: This course instructed us on practical ways to utilize the Internet and an overview of programs to assist in virtual communications. There was no required exam, however, the screening process was in-depth and extremely competitive.

MI: Are you saying that not everyone "makes" it?

MF: Yes, to my knowledge, over eighty spouses applied and twenty were chosen.

MI: That sounds quite rigorous! How might real estate professionals best take advantage of this program?

MF: I can assist real estate professionals in numerous aspects of their profession. I can develop a farming plan, help with personal marketing, assist as a transaction coordinator and be a live person for their clients to communicate with when the professional is busy with other clients.

MI: You have quite a family and work background in real estate --tell us about it.

MF: I started out as an associate broker in the Denver metro area for a well-known company. Due to my husband's career, I had to re-establish myself as a licensed realtor in the Shreveport, Louisiana, area. While there only a short time, I worked under my father who is the broker-owner of First Choice Homes, based in Shreveport. My stepmother is also a realtor with First Choice Homes.

MI: Given that experience, what do you feel is your most unique and/or valuable talent you can offer to Realtors?

MF: Having been a realtor myself, I understand the demands and sacrifices it takes to be successful. The best asset I offer is my personal understanding and knowledge of real estate. I have "walked in their shoes."

MI: With your husband in the military and the concomitant frequent moves, it was difficult for you to establish yourself as a real estate sales person in any one location. How do you see your VA status solving this problem yet satisfying your entrepreneurial / sales urges?

MF: My office and career are now portable, which can carry me anywhere my husband is transferred. All that will change for my clients is my phone number and address. The services I provide are unchanging. I can now maintain long-lasting relationships with my clients, regardless of locale.

MI: How would you describe the ideal REALTOR / VA relationship?

MF: I make a special effort to form a personal bond with my client. I feel it is imperative that we establish a rapport built on friendship and trust. Solid communication is an important key in making transactions operate smoothly, and lessen the chance of misunderstanding each other.

MI: What are the most important qualities a REALTOR should look for when looking for a VA?

MF: I feel the most important is a VA that has a working EXPERIENCE in the real estate profession. Other qualities I would include are knowledge of real estate procedures and laws, real estate terms and programs. Organizational skills and time management are essential in assisting your client success in their career.

MI: Last question: Why should a real estate professional consider a MSVA as a Virtual Assistant over other, perhaps more established VAs?

MF: MSVA's desire to be a part of the work force, but due to conditions beyond our realm of control, we have to constantly adapt to ever-changing environments. Having a full-time career as an MSVA, helps ease the stress of transition for our military families. MSVA's can offer a wealth of knowledge and a true desire to work professionally in a portable career. Often our skills, energy and talents go untapped by our current surroundings. I have learned to overcome obstacles in order to pursue my true love: entrepreneurship!!!

MI: Thank you very much Mashel --I know that many of our Realtor readers will jump at the chance of working with someone of your background, experience, and enthusiasm!

MF: Thank you!

You can learn more about Mashel and the services she offers at her Web site (http://www.yourrealestateva.com), contact her via e-mail at mashel@yourrealestateva.com or by phone at 877-621-2894. Always remember to do a thorough due-diligence before hiring any kind of assistant. This interview is part of an ongoing series of VA profiles designed to help you find that perfect VA that will launch you to the top quicker and with less effort than you ever thought possible!

(NOTE: Mr. Internet, his company and staff receive no compensation whatsoever from any third party vendors or service providers. Also any virtual assistant or consultant profile found in this publication is not to be construed as an endorsement of their services by Mr. Internet or his company.)