“Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.”

– Fred Rogers

As a remarkable 36-year career comes to an end, our beloved matriarch, Libby Broady, finally bids farewell to her journey as a real estate broker. At the age of 79, with a legacy marked by service to others, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, she’s now ready to bow out into a well-deserved retirement. 

With four children and eight grandchildren, her family has always been a very important part of her life. Libby has not only carved a path of success but has also woven a tapestry of cherished memories and enduring relationships. Throughout her career, she has stood as a beacon of professionalism, earning the admiration and respect of clients and colleagues alike. Her walls and shelves adorned with numerous awards and accolades representing milestones in her career serve as a testament to her unparalleled dedication and tireless work ethic. As the curtains draw to a close on this chapter of her life, Libby leaves behind a lasting impression. Her legacy has inspired the next generation, with all four of her children and one grandchild working as real estate brokers.

In her youth, Libby had no desire to become a real estate broker. Raised in England with dreams of becoming a teacher, her path eventually led her to a career in education of a different kind. After immigrating to Canada in 1967, Libby found herself teaching adults how to navigate the pioneering technology of word processing during her tenure at IBM. She left the workforce in the mid ’70s to raise her family. However, in the late ’80s, she and her husband, Max, discussed her re-entering the workforce to help put their four children through university. As Libby recalls it, he casually said to her one day: “Why don’t you try real estate? It might make for a good part-time job.” That became a family joke because with the way Libby dove into real estate it was clear it was never going to be part-time!

She obtained her real estate licence in 1988 and embarked on a journey that would see her ascend to remarkable heights in the industry. Leveraging her extensive network cultivated through her years of volunteering in her community, she quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with. Year after year her business grew, and it wasn’t long before she was winning sales awards and placing among the top brokers in her office.

After 12 years of Libby working independently, three of her four children, one-by-one, expressed an interest in joining her in the business. First Sean, then Catherine, and eventually Team Broady was born with her son Mark's addition in 2010.

Throughout her career, Libby's passion for connecting with people remained at the forefront. Whether forging bonds with clients or fellow industry professionals, her genuine rapport and dedication to service distinguished her in a competitive landscape. Furthermore, Libby was consistently among the most active advocates and fundraisers for the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation and the West Island Women’s Shelter. This is something she will likely continue to support well into her retirement.

Libby's journey of success also encompassed experiences beyond the confines of the office. Having just been named a member of the Royal LePage “Lifetime Chairman's Club,” she was privy to exclusive annual retreats reserved for the top 1% of earners nationwide. These gatherings not only offered professional networking opportunities but also provided unforgettable adventures across the globe, including a safari in Kenya, a visit to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, exploring the ancient ruins of Rome, and touring the Amalfi Coast of Italy. This year’s excursion to Barcelona will mark her final Chairman’s Club retreat. 

As Libby reflects on her storied career, she acknowledges the profound impact of her connections within Royal LePage and the broader real estate community. On February 15, Royal LePage presented Libby with one final honour, naming her the first-ever recipient of its François Léger Memorial Award in recognition of her loyal and long-standing commitment to not only the company, but the industry as a whole. Talk about going out on top! We couldn’t be prouder. 

Happy retirement Libby!

“Great is the art of beginning, but greater the art is of ending.”

– Henry Wadsworth Longfellow