When you ask a woman "What makes you feel good?" it's an act of rebellion for her to answer with the truth.
We’re out to find women’s self-compassion, in action.
Nikki Chartrand, founder of seven zero five realty is the poster woman for balance in the workplace:
funny and serious
dynamic and relaxed
hard-edged and soft
She's a closer who empowers everyone to ask for what they need (although she's already figured that out before you tell her). Nikki is a walking yin-yang symbol in the world of real estate; leading with her heart and brain in equal measure. Her intuition + intelligence approach create a solid case for why women make the best agents.
Nikki gave us some time to talk about her experiences in the cutthroat world of real estate, how she manages to stay grounded, and what advice she would give to her younger self. 
Life in real estate. How did you get here?
I have been in real estate for 8 years now. I worked in two much different industries before real estate (Landscaping/Fitness), both of which were salary positions. I felt that my input never matched the compensation I received (I'm an overachiever). I wanted to do something that was meaningful to me, I wanted a new challenge, and I knew I wanted to be of service to others, but I did not want there to be any ceiling on my earnings.
Your business is focused on “the 705” area code. Do local specialists actually matter in real estate?
Big time. For example: A realtor who specializes in high rise towers in Downtown Toronto are oftentimes unfamiliar with rural properties (well/septic), and often miss important clauses or warranties to protect their client. There are also different pockets of communities which may better suit a family (or certain pockets to stay away from). While google and the MLS statistics may be a good tool to familiarize yourself with certain areas, nothing beats knowing the area intimately, and having local contacts to best help your clients.
What has been the biggest shock as a woman in the real estate business?
Speaking only from my experience, I have often found that the women in real estate that I have had the pleasure to work with are diligent, gritty, kind, but tough when needed. I personally think the emotional intelligence of women - when it comes to handling sensitive situations - serves as a huge advantage to better understanding and working for their clients. Of course, you still hear stories of “the old boys club” of seasoned agents who have been servicing Simcoe County for a number of decades, but it's the women who tend to get shit done.
Do you have a work horror-story you can share?
There are so many (LOL). Eight years in and I can confidently say that nothing shakes me anymore (even outside of real estate). You have to always be prepared for the unexpected and be able to tackle any surprises head on, with a calm demeanor and clear mind, and really take charge of the situation. Oftentimes you have to make big decisions in a very short time span, or advise your Clients on A/B/C game plans and outline the best/worst case scenario for all and let them choose their own adventure.
Tell us about a deal that you feel extra good about?
Being in the business this long, I've had the privilege of clients using me for their next purchase. I remember a very young couple, first time home buyers, who bought their first house in Midland because it was affordable. Their plan was always to get their foot in the door, build equity, and move closer to Barrie. Fast forward 4 years later, they are married, 2 kids, outgrew their starter home. We listed their home, secured them a bigger home with more space to roam, and they chose to stay in Midland because they loved the community so much. Being able to see people move through their stages of life is definitely a privilege I don't take lightly.
What qualities do you see in your female colleagues - and in yourself - that make you feel like women just “get it” when it comes to helping clients buy and sell homes?
Emotional Intelligence. Being able to anticipate what your clients may be feeling, what they need in terms of support or encouragement, and getting ahead of it has been a huge advantage for me, and that is just who I am as a person. The most successful women I see in real estate also share these qualities.
What brings you joy in life?
Setting goals and smashing them out of the park probably gives me the most joy. I like the challenge and the chase of something new. I also love fostering relationships and truly helping to make a difference.
What makes you feel safe or like you belong?
Having really strong relationships in my life (friends and family) always grounds me and makes me feel an immense amount of gratitude for my life. I love being a part of a team and helping those I love in any way I can.
What are some small ways you take care of your well-being?
The gym has always been an outlet and a really productive way to deal with bouts of depression or anxiety. Eating well also plays a huge role in that. I, like most, do fall off the wagon every now and then, but I have some wonderful role models in my life who remind me what I need to do to get back to being the best version of myself.
What is the one small thing you do that always turns your mood around?
Doing something for others. Whether it's surprising a friend at their work with coffee, volunteering, any kind of act of kindness can completely recenter me and make me feel so fortunate that I can be of service to others.
The thing that brought unexpected peace in your life was/is…
BOUNDARIES! I stress to all my friends who struggle with this that boundaries will straight-up CHANGE YOUR LIFE. While it may seem difficult at first, it is a skill like anything else and just takes practice. Knowing what you will and will not accept, and drawing a hard line for yourself has been a complete game changer for me. This is, and forever will be, a non-negotiable in my life.
You feel sexiest when…
I'm working out, I'm eating right, I'm happy and balanced, I feel like I am an unstoppable force.
You feel most inspired and powerful when…
Sitting around talking to other women who are ambitious, running their businesses, are good people, are encouraging, and have overcome life's obstacles and can share their experiences. When I surround myself with powerful women who have walked the walk, it inspires me to keep pushing and set bigger goals. Women supporting women has got to be one of the best things out there honestly.
One word: what makes you feel good?
Making people laugh. Telling a joke and catching people off guard makes my whole day. People are often so overwhelmed, in their own head, and to take a few mins and make someone laugh or feel good is just another wonderful way to pay it forward.
One word: what are you most angry about?
When I look back at the pandemic and realize how ridiculous some of the rules were, how time with our loved ones was stolen from us, it's pretty upsetting.
Nikki, we see what you did with those many-word answers to a "one word" question, and we're noting your overachiever nature, even here!
If you could give your 20 year old self advice, you would say…
Dream Bigger. You are so capable, you will make it happen, you will find a way, you will not fail. Also: Wear your sunscreen!
Other than your family and friends, the mark you hope to leave behind as your legacy is…
That there is truly a ripple effect of being kind and generous, and regardless of your mood that having a positive outlook is the only thing that can truly connect us. It's okay to have your bad days, but be thankful for this life and your health, and give back wherever you can.
Favourite things that boost your mood, right now?
I have had a pretty wild year in real estate and felt like I was working 8 days a week. Right now, I am cherishing the slower month and using the time to reconnect with friends and family, and truly be present, and making time for myself again.
You can continue to follow Nikki’s work and life, here:
@Nik_knows_Simcoe
Stay connected for a future video interview with Nikki, and hear more about how she continues to live authentically in her work, wellness, womanhood, sex, love, life, and everyday moods.