In 2017 Dona created The Dona Frank Team which brings over 30 years of combined sales and marketing experience. Dona and her team focus on sales in the Capital Region areas, vacation sales, and second home purchase markets and she keeps her eyes and hands on every transaction and listing.

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and how long have you been working in New York? 

A: I am originally from California but have been back east since 1983, and in Saratoga Springs since 1988.  

Q: Why did you choose the real estate industry as a career path? 

A: I have always loved working with people and working in sales or motivating and managing sales, so in 2008 I was moved to get my license and try it as a part-time job. That soon became a full-time career and I have no regrets. 

“I have passion and knowledge and great clients and referrals, that makes it all so fun and worthwhile.”

Q: What about the industry drew you in? 

A: I was ready to work on my terms, my hours, and my location. That was back when working from home was frowned upon and I was driving to downtown Albany in heavy snow or rain. I hated the commute, but now I can schedule things that work for my clients AND work for me.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your role in luxury real estate? 

A: All of it! I love the homes I sell and see, the decor, the custom features, the hardscapes, everything. Luxury is a lifestyle more than a property for sale. You really get to enjoy things you have sometimes never seen before, such as underground heated garages for 10 cars on a rotating platform, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, lush gardens, horses, and so much more!

Q: What are some of the challenges? 

A: Some property locations don’t line up with the luxury homes and that means we need to market better with a focus on the features and lifestyles. Some are expensive luxury home but they’re dated. That can be tough, and for that, we market to location and land or special features. It is all about marketing.

Q: What are some important skills to have in this field of work? 

A: Mutual respect, good communication, great listening skills, follow through, keeping to your word, and my most important one, full transparency, at all times.

Q: What is a valuable lesson you’ve learned in this industry that you’d like to share?

A: To be honest. Sometimes I come across agents or sellers who want to bend the truth on a property fault or even avoid transparency. Believe me, in the end, it matters and it comes up. It can destroy an otherwise great transaction. It is called being ethical and we pride ourselves on that fact.

Q: Do any previous listings stand out in your memory and why? 

A: Many. A few in particular, 60 Scutt Rd is one, in Feura Bush, NY. It wasn’t the most expensive, although it was a luxury price point, but it was the most interesting. They built the custom home and office on a 9-acre lake on a 140-acre parcel of land with hiking trails and more. It was amazing and the buyers fell in love instantly. Also, the Quadgraphics estates in downtown Saratoga Springs. They were so well-appointed and lovely, and the aviary was awesome! I could go on and on as I do love them all, like children! You spend a lot of time preparing a listing like this and attention to detail is imperative. So you get to know the property really well, the owners or caretakers, and the relationships really do last.

Connect with founder, Dona Federico

518. 518.421.6753

The Dona Frank Team

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson since 2006

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Luxury Collection Specialist

Top 10% In Sales in Cap Region MLS

Top 1% in BHHS Network 2018-2023

Women’s Council Of Realtors Award/ Chairman’s Club Award

www.thedonafrankteam.com