How long have you been working in the real estate industry?
17+ years.
How did you get into real estate?
I started working for a broker in Michigan when I was 16 doing various jobs around her office. By the time I turned 19 I had been promoted to office manager, where I was able to learn a lot about the transactions. When I got married at 22 I moved to Wisconsin and took a break from real estate, and decided to get back into the business as an agent in 2010. In 2019, I went on to get my broker’s license and then in 2021 I had an opportunity to start my own company.
What was one of your greatest challenges starting out?
When I got my license in 2010 the market was still very slow, and it was difficult to make connections with buyers and sellers since the market had just collapsed and there were a lot of fears and unknowns. However, I stuck with it and things began to pick up. During the slow, difficult times I tried to take advantage of the extra time by learning and educating myself so that when things did get busy I would be more knowledgeable for my clients and customers.
What support or advice did you find most helpful when starting out in the industry?
I have learned that reaching out to others in the industry and having a larger base of professional connections is instrumental in being successful.
What do you enjoy most about working in real estate?
I love my job! The thing I enjoy most is getting to know people and help them with, perhaps, the largest investment of their lives. With each transaction it brings new opportunities to build relationships. Another thing I really enjoy is being able to help problem solve and coordinate closings, and see it all come together for my clients and customers.
What is your proudest achievement or favorite memory working in real estate?
My favorite memories are always when clients walk away with a smile on their faces. My motto is, “It’s not just about transactions, It’s about relationships”. I really enjoy reconnecting with people after closings and hearing their stories of what they’ve done to their new home and how they’ve made it their own.
What advice would you give to someone new to the industry, or someone considering real estate?
It will go smoother if you pay close attention to details and communicate well throughout each transaction. Do not burn bridges to ‘get what you want’. Real estate is about the client, not the agents. And as agents, we will likely have to work together again, so it’s important to keep those relationships in check as well. Be respectful in how you communicate to all people!
How has being a member of RASCW benefited you?
RASCW has kept me up to date with real estate happenings. I appreciate the articles and training opportunities available.
How are you involved and making a difference in your community?
I try to stay connected with the community by hosting community appreciation events such as a free brat fry and basket donations to various charities. I am also involved in our local Chamber of Commerce, where we do fun events to benefit the community, and I support the school sports programs and give away school supplies each year.
Outside of work, what makes you happy?
I enjoy running, biking, and swimming. I coach high school and middle school cross country in the fall, and am very involved in my church as well.
