How long have you been working in the real estate industry?
25 years
How did you get into real estate?
I was working in a federal position from 7-3:30 and my hours were going to be switched to 3:30-midnight. I had just had a daughter and knew I would not have the opportunity to see her a lot. I was already helping someone in real estate a little, so I made the decision to jump into it full-time, and here we are.
What was one of your greatest challenges starting out?
Creating business and contacts. We did a lot of marketing to people with postcards, magnet schedules, newsletters, etc. It’s interesting how over the years that went away, but now those marketing touches are coming back even stronger.
What support or advice did you find most helpful when starting out in the industry?
Build a good foundation for your business and get trained in the fundamentals. Some companies offer training for new agents, or even existing agents, who want to increase their business. Take advantage of this and seek out companies that will help you achieve your goals and not just be another agent in their company. “You’re never too old to learn!”
What do you enjoy most about working in real estate?
Meeting and networking with customers, clients, and agents, and the flexibility of my schedule. It’s been a great adventure. It has good times, great times, and also tear your hair out times, but in the end, it’s all about the folks you help meet their goals and dreams. It’s not about how many houses you sell or how much money you make – don’t splash that. Instead, talk about the people and the great stories of helping change their lives. Mine has been changed by real estate and the people I have met on this journey. I hope yours has too, but if not, it’s never too late to make the change and make it happen.
What is your proudest achievement or favorite memory in real estate?
My proudest achievement was being the President of RASCW in 2020!
What advice would you give to someone new to the industry, or someone considering real estate?
Make the commitment and work full-time. I realize it sometimes is not possible right away due to a current job, but you need to save six months reserves at a minimum and work hard. This is difficult to do part-time. Also, get in and spend time in the office. I realize we are in a remote/wireless world, but you can learn a lot and focus more if you are in the office.
How has being a member of RASCW benefited you?
RASCW is as amazing as the people who are on staff, the Board, and committees! They consistently strive to make the Association and members better by providing tools, resources, and opportunities. The networking at events and participating on committees is valuable to you and your business, so get involved, go to these events, and join a committee!! It has done amazing things for me personally and for my career.
How are you involved and making a difference in your community?
I consistently support local groups and organizations by showing up to events, volunteering, or donating items. I have partnered with the RE/MAX Children’s Miracle Network and donate to them from every transaction.
If you could have lunch with anyone in the world, alive or not, who would it be?
Joe Montana. Yes, I am a HUGE Packers fan, but Joe is my football idol (I LOVE football).
Outside of work, what makes you happy?
I live in the country on a farm with horses (Chucklehead Acres), which is pretty cool and is my happy place. Because of this, I have met fantastic friends and have some great people in my life!
