My Redfin Internship Experience: Stefan Deuchler
What’s it like to intern at Redfin? We asked Stefan some questions about his 12 weeks as a Redfintern this summer.
Why did you choose to work at Redfin?
There are many tech companies out there, but not many offer this hybrid structure of customer contact, with an amazing digital experience that is complemented by a human out in the field. I feel that the customer experience at Redfin is so rich because the customers are engaging in a transaction that is an important life event. There is a lot of potential to make the customer happy.
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I’ve been to every one of the contiguous states at least once, except Arkansas and Florida.
What’s your dream home?
Villa Volpi, a neoclassical palazzo on the Tyrrhenian Coast of Italy. I’ve seen the house many times from the outside, but unfortunately I always had to rely on tales of friends who were fortunate enough to be taken on a tour to get a sense of how it was inside and what the history of the place is (underground tunnels, an underground movie theater, and of course, a family saga are involved). Christie’s still has pictures on their website dating back at least two decades, when it was still occupied.
I feel that the culture here is very goal-oriented. It’s not so much about how it’s done or who has seniority, it’s about making the customer happy. I find that I work well in a culture where everyone shares the company’s values not just because they’re written on the wall, but because they believe in them.
What three words would you use to describe your experience at Redfin?
Inspiration, connection, insight.
What skills did you learn during your internship?
I’ve learned to synthesize research data and to see beyond the obvious.
What do you consider to be your biggest learning opportunity during your internship?
I’ve learned a lot about our real estate agents, how they’re working and in what ways Agent Tools is helpful for them and where they struggle. I almost feel like I could go out and be an agent myself!
What advice would you give a future Redfin intern?
Take advantage of all of the opportunities to connect with other Redfinnians, whether during intern events, hackathon or simply while having lunch.
What is your favorite Redfin perk?
Being part of an awesome group of talented and motivated people who stick together and say “yes, and…” instead of “yes, but…” Clif Bars. Beers at sunset on a Friday night.
How would you describe your experience with Redfin’s culture?
I feel that the culture here is very goal-oriented. It’s not so much about how it’s done or who has seniority, it’s about making the customer happy. I find that I work well in a culture where everyone shares the company’s values not just because they’re written on the wall, but because they believe in them.
What’s the best advice that you received during your internship at Redfin?
Don’t be afraid to ask!
