How long have you been working in the real estate industry?
26 years
How did you get into real estate?
In my prior life I worked for many years as a Correctional Officer for the State of Wisconsin at the men’s maximum security prison in Portage. Real estate looked SO EASY and it seemed like all agents were rich. I obtained my salespersons license and began to sell part-time while I was still working for the prison system. Before long, I had so much business from my colleagues at the prison that I had to quit that job in order to find homes for them.
What was one of your greatest challenges starting out?
It can be depressing when you don’t have sales for an extended period of time, which really did happen when I started. Even today I can get in my own head every now and then if I don’t have a closing scheduled and think, “no one likes me… I’ll never sell another house”.
What support or advice did you find most helpful when starting out in the industry?
It’s an absolute MUST that you find a great mentor… someone who REALLY CARES whether or not you make it.
What do you enjoy most about working in real estate?
I don’t even consider it work… it’s so fulfilling when you’re able to help someone get where they need to go for the next season in their life.
What is your proudest achievement or favorite memory working in real estate?
Several years ago my peers selected me as Realtor® of The Year in our Association, partly because of my involvement with several RASCW committees and being one of many Orientation instructors (teaching Ethics is my jam). The Association staff asked who I would like to present this award to me at the ceremony, and I choose my youngest son. I had been a single mom for some time and he and I had gone through some tough times together. I thought it would be special if he could share in this celebration. At the award presentation when he got up to speak he ROASTED ME… it was really funny and heartwarming. He did a fantastic job of giving away the “family secrets”, like the time I told him to “start the tub and get in the oven.”
What advice would you give to someone new to the industry, or someone considering real estate?
Have a MENTOR and a nest egg to fall back on. It’s not all sunshine and roses. And get out there!
How has being a member of RASCW benefited you?
The best thing you can do for your new career is GET INVOLVED with your Associations! I would never be where I am today if it weren’t for the great programing and educational opportunities offered by all three of our Associations. I highly recommend getting out there and getting involved whether it’s on a committee, a board, or just attending a networking event.
How are you involved and making a difference in your community?
I’ve always been very involved in the communities in which I live and work, it’s not an option – we have to give back. During the early days of the pandemic I handed out Free Hula Hoops to area kids to help them keep their minds off the negativity around them. This past summer I really enjoyed handing out free lunches at our local parks for the kids who came by. I’ve also been very involved in the Education Foundation for the Sun Prairie Schools and am currently working with a non-profit organization that gives out free beds to kids in need, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, with a mission that “No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in My Town”, which has my heart at the moment.
Maya Angelou
Outside of work, what makes you happy?
Being surrounded by the people I love.
