Q: Before you went into Real Estate, it sounds like you had a couple of cool jobs working for Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World Talent … can you tell us about those positions?
EM: I interned with Walt Disney World Entertainment’s Talent Casting office before graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Theatre Performance. That is where they cast all of the shows across their property. It was an amazing opportunity to learn how they search for all types of performers – DJ’s, bands, actors, dancers and singers. After my internship, I moved over to Magic Music Days and hosted guest talent groups. I was offered a full time job at Universal Orlando as an Entertainment Coordinator at Islands of Adventure, and then the Entertainment Projects Department, coordinating and stage managing events like Halloween Horror Nights, Mardi Gras, Rock The Universe and Grad Bash among others.

Q: You were working for a couple of great companies … what made you pursue Real Estate as a career?
EM: I grew unhappy in my job because there was little opportunity to advance. My Mom and Grandmother were successful Realtors in Palm Beach Gardens and Palm Beach. My mom was selling million dollar homes at the time and making in one closing what I made in a year. I knew there would be a learning curve, but the challenge and opportunity would be worth it.

Q: Can you tell us about some of the Real Estate certifications you’ve earned?
EM: When I received my license, my Mom told me to get the CRS – Certified Residential Specialist designation because the education was great, and I might get some referrals from it. It was and I have! I also got the GRI – Graduate of the Realtor Institute to coincide with my continuing education requirements. The Short Sale and Foreclosure Specialist designation gave me the knowledge to help both sellers and buyers with distressed properties, which were plentiful in 2009.

Q: What can a potential buyer expect from you in the buying process?
EM: My Buyers expect me to make the buying process as easy for them as possible. Buying a home is one of the most expensive purchases people make and can be very detailed and stressful. I have processes in place, along with a wonderful full time assistant and a transaction/closing coordinator, to make the experience smoother for my customers. My goal is to find my buyers the right house for them, balancing their needs and wants and staying within their budget. I want to make them so happy that they tell everyone they know about me.

Q: What do you tell potential buyers who are comparing Buying Vs. Renting? What are some of the Pros and Cons?  
EM: In the Central Florida market the amount of rent is the same as a mortgage payment. It doesn’t hurt to have a conversation with a local, trusted lender to find out if it’s the right time to buy a home. When you buy, you’re building wealth for yourself and your family. When you sell, you will get back the equity you’ve paid. When you rent, you have nothing to show for it at the end of the lease. Sometimes it’s better to rent, depending on the person’s circumstances. Talking to a good lender is key.

Q: If we interviewed all your past clients … what is “one” common word that comes up when they describe working with you?  
EM: Responsive.

Q: Can you tell our audience one of your most memorable moments your career?
EM: The first house I ever showed had mushrooms growing through the kitchen floor. I told the buyers there was no extra charge for that. They did not buy the house.

Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience?
EM: Everything you do and everyone you meet is a connection to future referrals, transactions and sales. Do not be a snob. Do not ignore the $50,000 buyer now because a few years from now that buyer could be your one million dollar buyer or could refer one to you.

Q: Which woman inspires you and why? 
EM: My Mom. She’s one of the strongest women I know. She raised me to be who I am, while putting everyone’s needs before her own. She’s my biggest fan and taught me how to be a Realtor.

Q: What are some of the challenges you feel women face today?
EM: Personal Safety and Work-life balance. Women must be cautious about whom they meet, where and how, in ways that men do not have to be. Work-life balance is a challenge for everyone. I want to always be available for my sellers and buyers and make them feel that they are my only customers, but everyone needs “down time” for themselves. Finding that balance is always a challenge because in real estate, your time is not your own.


Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?
EM: A female boss once told me, “Focus on the work.” It’s easy to get caught up in the gossip and minutia, but if you focus on the what needs to be done, you can do anything.

Q: Final question … can you tell us something about Maggie May?
EM: She’s our sweet black lab rescue pup (she’s 8 years old). We adopted her when she was about 3 and makes our family complete. My spouse Scottie works from home, so I tell her every day when I leave that she’s the CEO of Breaktime and the Director of Security.

Five Things About Eve Metlis

1.If you could talk to one famous person past or present, who would it be and why?  
Oprah. She came from nothing, faced tremendous hardships, built huge following and helped so many people. 

2. What place you always dreamed about visiting? 
Europe. We’re talking about taking a Mediterranean cruise in the next couple of years. It’s a great way to see several cities and only have to unpack once.

3. If you were a superhero, what would your special powers be?  
To sprinkle positivity and common sense on everyone. This world needs more of both.

4. What app can’t you live without? 
Facebook and Instagram

5. What’s your favorite Food to cook?  
Green pepper casserole in the instant pot. I’m a “gour-met” cook