How long have you been working in the real estate industry?
35 years
How did you get into real estate?
I started working for Dane County Title Company, moved to Badger Abstract and Title, and then on to M&I Bank. Twelve years ago, I joined Fairway. In all positions I was doing business development for each organization.
What was one of your greatest challenges starting out?
My greatest challenge following many years working for companies selling and marketing consumer products was the transition to selling title insurance and consumer loans. I addressed this by going out and meeting and building relationships with Realtors®, builders, financial planners, etc., and becoming active with their respective associations. This included being on various committees as well as boards of directors.
What support or advice did you find most helpful when starting out in the industry?
Being from Madison I received tremendous support from people I’d known growing up who were already working within the real estate industry. What they were willing to share proved invaluable to my becoming a success.
What do you enjoy most about working in real estate?
Very simple. The PEOPLE.
What is your proudest achievement or favorite memory in real estate?
One of my proudest achievements was being the lead individual pushing to have an affiliate member on the RASCW Board of Directors. This started very small with one person for a one-year term on the Board. By continuing my efforts there are now two affiliates on the Board for three-year terms with an opportunity to serve as an officer. I am proud to share that I was the first affiliate to hold an officer position (then vice president) on the Board.
What advice would you give to someone new to the industry, or someone considering real estate?
Work hard. Overcome call reluctance. Meet people. Be humble, hungry, and smart.
How has being a member of RASCW benefited you?
RASCW afforded me the opportunity to meet many people who would help me build my career. This was done by joining different committees and attending both the educational and fun events offered by RASCW. Meeting and knowing the RASCW staff also proved most valuable to me.
How are you involved and making a difference in your community?
I served six years on the Habitat for Humanity Board, six years on the NARI Foundation Board, three years on the Dane County Title Board, and many terms on the MABA and state and local mortgage bankers’ Boards. I also joined many committees while serving on these boards, and I do volunteer work at the River Food Bank. Giving back is a big part of who I am.
If you could have lunch with anyone in the world, alive or not, who would it be?
Vince Lombardi.
Outside of work, what makes you happy?
My family and friends plus the University of Wisconsin athletic events.
