What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
I wouldn’t call it too interesting, but I did work at JCPenney for a while.

Where did you grow up?
Tacoma, Washington

Growing up, what did you want to be?
Honestly, real estate always fascinated me — the memories you can create for first time buyers and families, the income it can provide, the ability to adapt to so many different dynamics of real life and problem solving. It keeps you really sharp.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Walking is always a great stress relief for me. Napping too — sometimes I’ll just walk in my dreams, that way I don’t feel as guilty not exercising in real life. Ha!

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
The Rock. His passion for his work and all his business ventures are really inspiring. Plus, just look at him!

What is Seattle’s best-kept secret?
Freeway Park! Go visit!

What do you love most about the industry?
The bond I can make with people by helping them with their purchase or sale. Purchasing a first home, or even selling one is such a huge accomplishment in someone’s life, and sometimes it’s their biggest accomplishment. Being the person they entrust that too is such an honor, especially when we can close early.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
As cliche as it sounds, just being myself. I don’t get caught up in what other agents are doing, or trying to copy what works for others. My transactions, reputation and personality speak for themselves, and they speak pretty loud. (Offering my clients tacos always helps too.)

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
It’s always hard having to call a client and tell them their offer was denied, especially when they had their heart set on a particular property. But I make them understand that’s just part of the process sometimes and that it usually means something better is out there waiting for them.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
You can’t beat old-fashioned word of mouth. Social media is a huge help nowadays as well, and of course being with a company that believes in your ability and values your work ethic.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Providing for my family. You never know what a year, or a month, is going to be like in this industry. But being able to provide for my kids will always be my greatest achievement, and knowing that I’m in a business where selling someone a home can make them feel that same way by providing their family with shelter and a safe place will always sit at the top of my heart.

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
The “Planet of the Apes” trilogy, along with the newest film, has really got my attention. As for music, some Shaboozey is always an instant happy place.

What’s your favorite meal in Seattle?
Pink Door. Awesome little hidden restaurant.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Seattle?
The Amazon Spheres were so unique when I first saw them. Those are always fun to see, as well as the Suzzallo Library.

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
At an open house I was holding, a man walks in without saying a word, stands in the middle of the living room, looks at me and says, “I really like the smell here,” and then just walks out. It was both funny and concerning at the time.

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
I like to sing.

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Los Angeles. Endless amounts of shops and sights, plus all the beaches and markets and old Hollywood history. Fascinating.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Accurately and precisely understand the needs of each client.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Homes.com

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Coldwell Banker, Matthew McConaughey, Mark Wahlberg, Frankie Flawless, my kids and The Rock, to name a few.

What are your social media handles?
Instagram: homesbykimberlee
Facebook: Kimberlee Hurley Calabaza
Website: kimberleecalabaza.com