Scott, a real estate associate at Sotheby's International Realty in the District, worked previously at Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and before that at the State Department and the White House. He is originally from Oklahoma.

You had an interesting professional transition in the past two years. What was that like?

The transition has been great. I was fortunate enough to work for the federal government and the nonprofit world before doing real estate, which helped me see the big picture. Business has always been a passion of mine ever since my brother and I had a lawn mowing business growing up in Oklahoma. Real estate is rewarding because you are helping someone with the most personal thing in their life, where they lay their head at night and where they start their day.

What do you love about your job?

I love the personal interaction with my clients. There is never a dull moment, and you can learn so much from people if you just listen.

Seriously, is the market getting better?

Seriously, the market is getting better. We are seeing an increase in offers on homes, even bidding wars again. Interest rates are never going to get this low, and with incentives like [Federal Housing Administration] loans, tax abatement and the D.C. $5,000 tax credit, it is still realistic for someone to be a homeowner if they just take the time to do the

research.

What are the next hot neighborhoods in D.C.?

Every neighborhood is hot right now, it just depends on what you are looking for. The Hill is seeing a lot of action, and so is the U Street/LeDroit Park area. Logan and Dupont circles are still on the top of the list, too.

If you could live anywhere ...

I would probably live in a row house on Logan Circle.

- Julie Mason