What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Starting a non-profit called KidServe, which served families with young children helping them to find volunteer opportunities all around the Puget Sound.
Where did you grow up?
Cleveland, OH
Growing up, what did you want to be?
An artist.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Workout or go to happy hour with my girlfriends — that always makes me feel better to just gab with the girls.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Claude Monet – I love art and love staring into his impressionism paintings like the Water Lilies series. I originally majored in art in college and always wonder how famous artists are able to master painting. It’s hard!
What is Seattle’s best-kept secret?
That’s hard because there are so many things! I think the best kept secret is how stunning it is in the summertime. We are known for the rain but when July 4th comes, we don’t see a drop of rain again until Labor Day and the mountains, trees, lakes and Sound are just stunningly beautiful. I think the summers are what keep us going through the winter!
What do you love most about the industry?
I love the agents I get to meet and partner with on deals. I have met so many awesome people on the other side of the table — always learning from them and working together to get the deal done. Many have become great friends.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I have a certain flare for marketing and I think it’s unlike a lot of agents. I make a video for each listing and I think it sets me apart a bit. I have many sellers now that seek me out because of some of the unique things I do to bring their home to market.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Saying yes. It’s an art! As an agent, we have to say yes more than no and sometimes it’s not glamorous. Yes to watering the plants a month before the listing is live, or taking in the mail — sure. But I have even moved a bed to the curb for a seller because they were out of town! We get paid well and to me that means saying yes to most things so that the seller feels good about their investment in me and what I do for them.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Consistency. And sometime I fail. But when I am consistently following up, keeping great notes in my CRM, making calls and farming regularly — the results follow.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
I was ranked No. 4 in my office last year in less than five years in the business. It was pretty exciting to see my hard work pay off in such a momentous way. Now I need to do it again! My personal greatest accomplishment is raising three really awesome kids. Jack 21, Nate 19, and Lily 17. They are my everything.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
When I watch TV, it is background noise to marketing and I have a penchant for Bravo. My reading has mostly been industry books, and I listen to some podcasts usually from Jim Kwik, Tom Ferry and I love Tom Bilyeu’s Impact Theory too.
What’s your favorite meal in Seattle?
I hardly ever get to go because it’s always booked, but when I think ahead and can get a reservation at Pink Door — I’d say that’s my favorite meal. Not just for the food but the atmosphere too. Sitting on the deck in summer with a glass of champagne and a bowl of pasta is divine!
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Seattle?
Has to be the public library. It’s truly a special building! I live on the east side which is anchored by Bellevue and we have so many new buildings popping up everywhere — they are all so fantastic with inviting outdoor public spaces that bring our gorgeous PNW feel to them.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
Most people love when I tap dance in their home videos. We have reels and reels of B-roll of me tap dancing in their foyer! I’m not good, but I like to think I am!
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Cabo San Lucas. It’s home away from home. Mostly because I just love the people. We have a little place there and no one ever forgets us! We have come to know so many wonderful locals and it feels like family whenever we go to visit. On top of the fact – it’s gorgeous in Baja!
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Wait to Worry.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Definitely my CRM Follow-Up Boss – I am on it constantly making notes!
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Personally, I am obsessed with jewelry designers and follow a ton of them. My recent fave is Brent Neal. She makes these mushroom pendants out of gem stones and really cool materials and I can’t get enough. Professionally, I am obsessed with Tim Smith’s videos. He’s in Orange County. He makes the absolute best listing videos ever. So clever — he and his team are beyond creative!