Interview Patti Behen, Real Estate Agent with RE/Max Classic Realty

Patti Behen is a licensed real estate Salesperson with RE/MAX Classic Realty in Somers, NY. Born and raised in Putnam County, Patti attended Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island, graduating in 2008 with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology. She has been a realtor for the past 5 years in Putnam, Westchester, and Dutchess, and volunteering with the Putnam Valley Business Network since 2017. 

1. Tell us about yourself.


I'm a licensed realtor with RE/MAX Classic Realty, assisting sellers and buyers of homes, vacant land, and commercial spaces in  Putnam, Dutchess, Westchester counties and beyond! I'm on the board of trustees for the Putnam Valley Business Network, and an organizer for the Putnam Northern Westchester Realtor Caravan. Staying involved is important to me, as well as building relationships with my clients. Outside of my work life, I enjoy running and spending time with family and friends. My 8 year old niece, Hailey, is my best buddy and little real estate apprentice! 

2. Why did you decide to become a realtor?


I actually grew up in the industry! My mom was a broker/owner of her own real estate company. My dad was an investor and contractor. At 18, I wasn't thinking about real estate as my career. I went to college in 2004, got a BA in Psychology, and after graduating, worked in that field for 7 years! In 2013, I decided to go get my real estate license. I honestly don't remember what the catalyst was, but I'm so glad I decided to move in this direction. I'm so grateful to be where I am today, and was so passionate about real estate from day 1. I love my job and the people I work with. 

3. How do you help a buyer find their dream home?


Outside of representation, my role in helping buyers find a dream home is to be their guide and navigate the whole process. One of the things I have heard from my clients in the past that I'm not with them to to "sell" something, but to help them achieve their goals. All my buyers sit with me for an initial consultation. I need to hear from them what they are looking for in a home, as well as take the time to explain to them how the process works from day 1 to closing day. Buyers should be well-informed and linked early on to resources and providers relevant to their needs. 

4. How do you help a seller get ready to put their home on the market?

Sitting with the seller for an initial consultation, just to identify their goals and what the best course of action is. Sometimes that may not even be listing the house for sale at that time! I review the whole process with them from start to finish. A big part of my job in the beginning is to do my homework; running a title search, going to the building department to review  their file, and verifying the taxes for the property at the tax department. If there are issues, I help with resolving them. I also speak with the seller about what would make the house itself market-ready and develop a plan on how to move forward. 

5. What do you love about Putnam, Why did you choose Putnam for your business? 


Putnam is absolutely beautiful and although I live in Westchester now, I actually grew up in Putnam. When I started as an agent in 2013, the first house I sold was right on Roaring Brook Lake in Putnam Valley. That was actually a buyer I had met through my website at the time, so it was really kind of random. I fell in love with helping people buy and sell their homes in Putnam; especially lake homes, and the rest is history! This past year I began to work more with investors, and there is a great market for that in this area.