Berger's thriving business is a work of love
By Lesley Schoch

"Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life."

This advice, as offered by Confucius, seems to best illustrate Marilyn R. Berger's sentiments for selling real estate. Berger, the designated Realtor and President of The Berger Real Estate says, "I have never come in here (the office) one day and thought I don't want to be here. I love it."

32 years ago, as her youngest of four children entered kindergarten, Berger embarked on a real estate career. Her initial affiliation was with Warren Charles.

"At that time it was a male dominated field with about ten women selling real estate in Lancaster County," Berger recalled. Her energy, commitment and continual pursuit of education enabled her to survive and succeed.

On Valentine's Day, 1979, Berger opened the doors to her own office. She couldn't have chosen a better day for a career she loves so much. The firm consisted of herself and a part-time secretary. Being a small operation wasn't a problem for Berger, as she believes quality to be more important than quantity.

Although she currently oversees the operation, numbering 20 associates, Berger continues to stand firm on the values that have brought her this far.

"I tell my associates that we have one thing to give, and that is our service," she said proudly. "We are assisting people to spend the greatest amount of money at one time in their lives. I stress integrity and honesty.

Her early education was obtained through parochial schools. A graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School, She attended Franklin and Marshal College and is a graduate of the Real Estate Institute.

Berger actively sells commercial, residential and investment properties. She continues to enjoy locating the right business or home for a prospect, and shows no sign of slowing down.

After all, selling real estate is not her job, it's a work of love.