How long have you been working in the real estate industry?
10 years
How did you get into real estate?
I worked in advertising and marketing in the corporate world for over 10 years, traveling across the country. I really liked my career, but I was 31 years old and already feeling exhausted. I realized the hours and travel away from home would not be sustainable. I wanted to find a career where my output and drive was directly related to my own personal success and income. I chose right! I absolutely love what I do and the people I surround myself with.
What was one of your greatest challenges starting out? How did you address it?
My friends and family didn’t immediately put their trust in me as a professional real estate agent – that kind of bummed me out – I assumed they would want to use me right away. So, I got involved in the community, went on those lunch dates and happy hours, did other agents’ open houses, and offered to help seasoned agents as much as my time would allow. Eventually my circle recognized my success and started to use and refer me.
What support or advice did you find most helpful when starting out in the industry?
Two things. 1. Abundance: there is plenty of opportunity in this business – you have to stay positive and go after it. 2. You have to Show UP, whether that is to an outside office, a home office, or a office in a coffee shop – you have to be present in the business to be successful.
What do you enjoy most about working in real estate?
100% the people. I love that many of my clients have remained friends throughout the years. I also LOVE that I too can live the life I want and maintain a healthy work/life balance.
What is your proudest achievement or favorite memory working in real estate?
I feel like every transaction is an achievement. Every offer or listing has something about it that makes it super special to get to the closing table. I am a super emotional/empath in many ways, and I feel like with every transaction I am along for the same ride as my client.
What advice would you give to someone new to the industry, or someone considering real estate?
You have to show up and be present. Transactions and clients don’t fall into your lap when you first get started. Listen to the seasoned agents around you that are successful and ask to help. This career can be amazing as long as you treat it as a career.
How has being a member of RASCW benefited you?
I really enjoy being a member of RASCW. Attending association events is a must – it is an opportunity to meet other agents in the community that will eventually be on the other side of a transaction from you, and it is so nice to recognize the face, name, and remember something fun you participated in together. I love that the events are all based on giving back to our community, and I also enjoy being involved on the orientation committee – I get to brainstorm with some of the best in the industry and instruct new agents on how to get started on the right path.
How are you involved and making a difference in your community?
I really enjoy volunteering – I have done a lot with Badger Honor Flight over the years, Ironman Wisconsin, local food drives, the Veterans Hospital, and United Way. I have housed a foreign exchange student and worked with Big Brothers/Big Sisters. I even ran for City Council in 2015. I feel like working in this industry gives us the schedule to give back in some way or another. I love it because not only am I giving back, but I am filling up my cup just a little bit more and that always makes me happy.
Definitely my grandfather who passed away over 20 years ago. He was my biggest fan and I his.
Outside of work, what makes you happy?
I love to get out on the water in the summer. Being around animals, especially my dogs, makes me super happy. I enjoy volunteering on all levels. I love to be around people, but I can also sit back and enjoy a good book and not leave my spot until I finish it. I also love to travel whenever I have the opportunity with my husband Jason – we have been together 17 years and we have had some pretty amazing trips together.
