Meet Sandra Schaffer: Real Estate Agent, Former U.S. Marine, Runner and Mom

sandra-schafferVisit the CENTURY 21 Alliance Group office, and you’re likely to find agent Sandra Schaffer working with a client, closing her latest real estate deal or participating in agent training between showing homes to her buyers.

As a single mom, Sandra decided to pursue a career in real estate three years ago so she could have a flexible schedule and be home with her son. She soon discovered she loved every part of the job.

“There’s really no downside to being a real estate agent,” Sandra said. She loves showing homes and seeing all the different styles, working with buyers to find their perfect home, negotiating a deal and helping sellers make a quick sale.

Sandra makes it her goal to sell a home she lists within the month. With an 85% list-to-sale ratio, Sandra has had offers on homes she has listed within 72, 24 and even 12 hours.

Before becoming a real estate agent, Sandra was a U.S. Marine for ten years. She continues to live and work by the principles of honor, courage and commitment instilled in her during her time as a Marine. Working by these principles gives Sandra a feeling of purpose in her job as a real estate agent.

“My favorite part of the job is seeing the look on my client’s face, especially first-time home buyers, at the closing table and knowing I’ve been able to help them obtain their dream,” Sandra said.

No stranger to Northwest Indiana, Sandra grew up in the area and graduated from Chesterton High School. After living out of state for a while, Sandra moved to Valparaiso three years ago. She has taken to the area and appreciates the sense of community.

CENTURY 21 Alliance Group has become more than a place for her to work. She considers the staff and agents at the real estate agency part of her extended family.

“Three years ago, I came here with nothing and found a very supportive community,” she said. “Everything that I have today is because of the support that the community gave and it’s extremely important for me to give back.”

Sandra makes community service a priority in her life. She participates in United Way’s Day of Caring with other agents from CENTURY 21 Alliance Group, volunteers for Lakeshore PAWS and supports 500 Turkeys. Currently, Sandra is partnering with Extra Mile Fitness to plan a run to benefit Toys for Tots and needy families in Northwest Indiana this holiday season.

Sandra has two sons, Alexander, 19, and Ryan, 14, and one dog, Midnight, a rescue from Lakeshore PAWS. When Sandra isn’t busy working, she enjoys spending time with her son; taking Midnight for a walk; running and working out; attending festivals in downtown Valparaiso and frequenting one of her favorite restaurants, Valley Kitchen & Bar or Tomato Bar.