What makes a good real estate agent? Ann attributes her success in real estate and the financial markets to good communication and research. Everything I do revolves around being responsive to my clients, so I always, always return phone calls and e-mails quickly. Also, in a market like ours, the best homes sell fast. I want my clients to get the best properties, so I stay on top of the market and preview new listings. Doing this 'homework' allows my clients to make better decisions for buying the right house.