My interest in real estate began way before I had ever thought of pursuing a career in it. As a child I would look through the magazine catalogs of homes for sale at the grocery store and spend time browsing the internet looking at different custom homes and floor plans. I was fascinated by architecture and the beauty of homes not just in my area but across the country. During the summer of my sophomore year in college, my friends were getting internships at Fortune 500 companies, but I wanted to intern with a real estate firm. What was supposed to be a 12-week internship with this team turned into 15 weeks filled with knowledge, excitement, and opportunity. The team offered me the role of marketing director. They let me work remotely from school in Gainesville, Fla., while I finished my degree. Each winter and summer break I returned to the office to work with them in person. I truly felt as though I had found my calling. Upon my graduation in 2018, I obtained my real estate license, became an agent on the team and the rest is history.

I had my sights set on real estate since early in high school, when we would drive around my small town and see open house signs. I knew I wanted the personal and financial autonomy the profession would provide me. I have an entrepreneurial spirit at heart and absolutely thrive in an autonomous environment. I have several creative marketing outreach items. For example, when I sell a home, I put gifts together for the four surrounding neighbors in a box that says, “I just sold your neighbor’s house, I can sell yours, too!” I also have a FSBO box I carry in my car. Inside the house-shaped box, I provide a blank seller’s disclosure, shoe cover booties, some packing labels, a staging room-by-room brochure, a showing checklist and an “about me” card. When I drive past FSBOs, I drop by and offer them one with no obligation. It creates a great relationship by providing value without asking in return. In so doing, they often call me to list their house on the MLS.

My parents made their living in real estate. This is where my initial love for real estate began and where a seed was planted that eventually blossomed into wanting to become an agent and broker. When I moved to Decatur, Ga., to join my other half and close the gap in our long-distance relationship, I decided to pursue my real estate license as well. Four months after I obtained my license, the pandemic hit, and the market started heating up. It was my first year with the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders as well, and I was able to help several of my cheer brothers and sisters navigate into homeownership. I've learned an immense amount of information about building homes from my business partner and his wife. I've designed more house plans and interior features than I could've ever dreamed of. I have a passion for being a dedicated buyer's agent in this ever-changing market. Throughout all the ebbs and flows over my last five years in real estate, that is one thing that has remained consistent no matter what.

Originally, I wanted to obtain my real estate license to be a commercial broker. At the time, I was the director of operations at a commercial real estate firm from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and then I would go straight to the Pan School of Real Estate from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. every weeknight to obtain my real estate license. Once I received my license, I quickly realized that I truly loved residential sales more than commercial and made the transition. I have loved getting to know my clients on a more personal level to find them their dream home and help them with their next chapter in life. I also represent new developments as the listing agent. I’m involved from the ground up on new developments with the support of a great team, and I help manage each project until closing day for every homeowner. With over 140 homes in my current inventory, on projects with price points ranging from the mid-$300,000s to more than $1 million, I would consider myself an expert in this field.

My dad told me almost 100 times that I should become a real estate agent, and I told him every time that I didn’t want to be an agent because I didn’t love how some agents do business. They might be excellent agents, but there’s no care or warmth when it comes to working with them. But then my dad told me that I don’t need to be an agent like all of the others. Real estate allows you to build your business how you think it should be. It’s possible to build a business focused on working with people that you like and care about, where your main job is to help others achieve their goals. That’s when I finally understood the opportunity. I got my license and never looked back. My passion is not for selling homes. My passion is for building: building my business, helping agents build their skills and their businesses, and helping clients start to build generational wealth. Real estate is the best avenue to do that.

Coaching and mentoring are what I was born to do. In my office, we hold monthly sales meetings where I lead discussions on current market topics and help ensure the growth of our agents. I hold meetings with our preferred lending firms to get a better understanding of the rate market, new loan programs and anything that can help our buyers. Weekly, I attend broker opens with the top echelon of real estate agents in my market to discuss marketing strategies to benefit our sellers. All of the information I obtain, I share with my firm so that everyone is armed with the newest information. I am constantly learning from industry experts that handle high production levels of business. I have had the privilege of being invited twice to address the entire communication department at Western Illinois University for its Career Preparation Day event and have been inducted into the Wall of Fame, where they select a former student each year who has given back to the school and excelled in life after attending the university.

Baseball runs deep in the Clarke family. For 35 years, my dad spent his career coaching baseball for four different schools, from high school to junior college. My brother followed in his footsteps, as he has been in the baseball coaching business for 12 years. I decided to take a step back from baseball during my junior year of high school. I had every intention to get my CPA license and go to work in public accounting. My dad had been retired from coaching for a few years when he found real estate and eventually founded his own brokerage. After my freshman year of college, he encouraged me to start the prelicensing course. As an 18-year-old who knew nothing about selling houses at the time, I laughed and agreed only if he paid for it. The following summer I took and passed the real estate exam. Who knew this was going to be my form of coaching—helping, teaching and coaching buyers and sellers through the largest and most complex transactions of their lives?

I have a very personal connection to the power of real estate. My grandmother on my dad’s side came over from Sicily at the age of 18. She taught herself English and, after a few years, she met and married my grandpa. My grandpa was given a 5-acre parcel of land when they got married, and my grandma sold four acres of that land and used the proceeds to build her dream home and acquire other properties. She built a better life for herself and her family by buying, selling and investing in real estate. I have fallen in love with helping people create their own better life through real estate. Giving first-time home buyers the key to their new home still gives me goosebumps every time! Knowing that I am helping families create exponential wealth through real estate gives me certainty that I am creating a positive difference in other lives. I am eternally grateful for all the events that happened in my life that have led me to a career in real estate.

Throughout my journey in real estate, it has become self-evident that representation matters. Not only at the local or state level but nationally. My team, Coalition Properties Group, is a 100% African-American owned and operated real estate sales team and development company that continues to dominate our local market while staying true to our team’s mission: “To be the bridge to our community for all things real estate, lifestyle, and wealth-building.” The platform that we have built has allows us to set positive examples to young people of color all over the world. I am the co-founder of Unfair Advantage Inc., a Maryland-based nonprofit created to instill financial literacy and workforce development vehicles in low-to-moderate-income communities. Our program teaches students, returning citizens, and veterans the importance of establishing credit, understanding finances, and ultimately providing the resources necessary to establish financial independence. Real estate equals home, security, legacy, family, and community opportunity. I’m grateful to apply this mindset in every step of my life and appreciate the ability to use it in a thoughtful and meaningful manner.

My specialties are first-time homebuyers and luxury resale. My peers are starting their homebuying journey, and I’ve designed my business to guide them through a process that can be intimidating. I create a customized plan for each client that helps me ensure that their needs and expectations are met. My focus on luxury resale has also given me the experience and knowledge to help my clients build generational wealth through real estate. I advise my clients to focus on the hyperlocal market—that’s the information they need to reach their long- and short-term investment goals. I love being involved with industry organizations. In 2023, I was the vice chair for my local YPN, and I’m currently a New York State Association of REALTORS® director. I also have a passion for giving back to my community. Two organizations that are very dear to me are Long Island Cares and God’s Love We Deliver, which both address hunger issues. I’m a firm believer that no one should ever go hungry, and I have a goal of starting a soup kitchen someday.

Growing up with a single mom who was a full-time real estate agent, I was always around real estate. So, in college, I started working on obtaining my real estate license, “just to have it,” I thought. I went on to work at ESPN in their social media department in Bristol, Conn. However, I felt called to return to my roots and start my career in real estate. In April 2017, I moved back to Atlanta and began my career. I hit the ground running, built my business from the ground up, and now almost six years and more than 100 clients later, I have never felt more fulfilled. In October 2022, my mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Heartfelt messages about the impact my mom had on people’s lives came in, many from clients that she met over the years of her career. During such a scary time, that was an absolute bright spot for our family to see support from clients that became her friends. This exemplified her main lesson to me: that the key to her success—and now mine—is to treat people with kindness, respect, and most importantly, as a friend.

My niche in real estate is working closely with the African community—particularly the Ethiopian community—in the Washington, D.C.; Maryland; and Virginia areas. Being from Ethiopia, I easily connect with these communities, understanding their language, culture and specific needs. There is a notable language barrier faced by many immigrants, and this is one of the key factors that motivated me to establish this niche. I have been actively giving back to my community by conducting seminars and offering mentorship or advice in real estate. These seminars are designed to educate and empower individuals, especially those who are new to the real estate market. Additionally, recognizing the challenges faced by those with language barriers, I assist by translating and explaining complex real estate concepts in a more accessible language. This helps them navigate the real estate process more confidently and effectively to achieve their real estate goals. Through these efforts, I aim to make a meaningful impact in my community by leveraging my expertise for their benefit.

My family history is intertwined with real estate. My uncles own a small brokerage in Kansas City, Mo. Growing up, I frequented their office, where I recall running into stacks of paperwork and indulging in all the candy and snacks. What left an impression on me was witnessing clients entering the office to thank my uncles for their community contributions. This experience instilled in me the realization that a career in real estate is not just about transactions; it’s a meaningful opportunity to impact people’s lives. My favorite nonprofit that I actively contribute to is Smart Bellies. This organization works tirelessly to address food insecurity among children in Summit and Park counties. Through my involvement, I’ve donated both time and resources to help ensure that kids have access to nutritious meals, especially during weekends and holidays. It’s a cause close to my heart, and I find fulfillment in knowing that I’m making a positive impact on the well-being of children in our community.

I grew up in real estate. I am proud to be a third-generation practitioner. Growing up in the business and seeing the love that my dad and grandpa had for what they did and for the families they helped, I knew there was nothing I would rather do. I have so many great memories growing up with my dad talking about his business and accompanying him on some of his appointments. I was so proud of him when he decided to leave the residential real estate business and pursue his love of the outdoors. In 2011, he opened Living the Dream Outdoor Properties that currently does business in five states. I grew up with a love for the land. I have turned that love into a very successful business helping my clients to buy or sell land for investment, recreation, farming, rural-related businesses and other uses. I am a member of the Missouri REALTORS® Board of Directors and I sit on the Commercial and Economic Development committees. In addition, I am also a member of the REALTOR® Land Institute and I have started pursuing the Accredited Land Consultant designation.

After I got into the industry at 18, the majority of my clients were first-time home buyers whom I was already acquainted with. I helped a lot of my high school and college friends buy their first homes. As my business grew, I started to get more involved in the community. I was able to meet so many people through the local chamber. My clients have told me that my specialty is my honesty and market knowledge. My most influential mentor is my grandfather. He started our real estate company back in the 1970s and is still making it thrive. He is a bigger-than-life person. He shows me repeatedly that customer service and taking care of your clients are always bigger than the paycheck. I married my best friend in November of 2020. I enjoy hanging out with friends, golfing, and spending time with family.

I have developed a niche in trust sales and in handling homes that have been in the same family for an extended period of time. These properties often present unique challenges, either being in their original condition or requiring significant updates. My role extends beyond traditional real estate services, as I provide comprehensive support that includes managing the entire process, from helping to clear out the house and organizing estate sales to overseeing property preparations and even fronting the costs for necessary repairs to enhance the listing. Additionally, I coordinate the date of death appraisal when applicable, ensuring a smooth process for tax purposes. Specializing in trust sales allows me to bring a level of care and understanding to clients dealing with the complexities of selling a family property. This niche has not only positioned me as an expert in managing the intricacies of these transactions but also enabled me to provide a personalized and hands-on approach to my clients throughout the entire sale process.

We only have a career if people decide to trust us to be their advocate, and my goal is to work hard to make sure people feel my gratitude and honor to be their agent, and how much I love my job. I focus heavily on my community and invest in it to ensure my business is an asset and a worthy connection in the industry. In 2023 alone, I participated in a few different Greenville Chamber programs. I am a member of the Greenville Chamber of Young Professionals, which offers a yearlong mentorship program. Another is the chamber’s Opportunity Greenville, a five-week course to learn about the inner workings of our community—government, first responders, housing, schools, workforce and economic development, health care, and more. Additionally, I was accepted to a five-week program called Propel, which is a training certification program in partnership with United Way of Greenville County that prepares participants to serve on local nonprofit boards, which I hope to do soon.

When it comes to generating business from my sphere of influence—whether it be upsizers, downsizers or first-time home buyers—I go out of my way to break bread with them either over lunch or a quick cup of coffee. My goal is never to just ask for the business, but to truly build an authentic relationship. A lot of my clients have come from former classmates and referrals. I love rekindling old relationships and creating new ones. Growing up, I was never very good at starting conversations, and I was fairly shy. The impact college had on my real estate career is that it helped me get out of my comfort zone. While I am still not the most outgoing person, I truly value one-on-one intimate relationships and hearing people’s stories. I have an Instagram page called “Living Chicago Suburbs,” where I create content and connect with local businesses to collaborate and lift up one another.

I earned a bachelor of fine arts degree in dance performance and choreography from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and this experience influences every aspect of my life. Through dance, I cultivated essential skills such as commitment, collaboration and creativity, which have proven invaluable in my career in real estate. I often joke that my dance major in college was essentially a major in emotional intelligence. We spent our days tapping into personal feelings and societal habits, studying ourselves, people and global issues to draw inspiration for creating art through movement. Consequently, I have developed a heightened sensitivity to emotions and body language that has proved particularly beneficial in my real estate transactions. The process of selling or buying a home can be emotionally charged, and a significant part of my job involves navigating these emotions. By being attuned to my clients’ feelings, I can guide them through the process in a way that ensures their satisfaction with the outcome.

Specializing in small town and rural real estate has proven to be a thriving niche for me. Having grown up in the very town I now primarily serve, I find immense joy and fulfillment in contributing to its vibrancy. Being a jack of all trades is often a requirement. I find myself assisting both sellers and buyers, covering a 60-mile radius and holding licenses in both Kansas and Nebraska. My community stands at the heart of my business, a cornerstone without which my journey would lack its essential support. I strive to be involved in many ways in my community, not only through giving financially but also volunteering my time. I currently serve as a board member at the Superior Country Club, a chamber ambassador at the Superior Chamber of Commerce, a mentor for various high- school interns throughout the years, and I spend a large deal of time organizing an annual golf tournament for women to raise funds for breast cancer research.

I like to tell my clients that I am their go-to person for all of their homeownership firsts. Everyone remembers the first home they buy or sell, usually because the first times are fraught with challenges and lessons learned the hard way. I work hard each day to ensure all facets of my business are rooted in easy-to-understand, easy-to-navigate education, so my clients have a greater understanding of the homeownership process. From buying their first home, loving their first home by ensuring it is maintained in the best way possible, and selling their first home when that time comes, I am here to guide my clients through it all. One of the key ways I keep my business competitive is my commitment to never stop growing. I have the privilege of being a part of a small group of top producers at RLAH that formed an accountability group. Each week we meet to discuss our goals and challenges, and collaborate on problem solving and supporting one another’s business. I love this group, because I am constantly exposed to new ideas and ways to be a better agent by peers who I respect and trust.

I have two niches: commercial real estate for startups and military families. These are not just areas of expertise, but a reflection of my commitment to diverse and meaningful client relationships. I love to work with ambitious individuals to find the perfect space to launch their dreams. I understand the unique needs and challenges that come with startup businesses, and I’m passionate about helping clients find the right commercial properties to kickstart their ventures. In addition, my niche of military families holds a special place in my heart. Being a military spouse myself, I have developed a deep understanding of the circumstances and requirements of military personnel and their families. Whether it’s finding suitable housing during a relocation, knowing all aspects of VA loans or providing support during deployments, I take great pride in assisting those who serve our country.

I decided to obtain my real estate license because of a transformative experience in my previous career as the owner of an event designing company. Before transitioning to real estate in 2022, I had a passion for working closely with clients, understanding their unique needs, and providing tailored services to make their special moments truly memorable. What I love most about my transition to real estate is that, much like my previous career where I worked with brides and grooms on one of the most important milestones of their lives, in real estate, I have the privilege of helping first-time buyers with another monumental life event. The satisfaction of guiding clients through this significant decision while leveraging my skills in understanding their needs, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence is what drove me to obtain my real estate license. It's a career that allows me to continue making a positive impact on people's lives during a momentous occasion, and I am truly grateful for this opportunity.

My niche aligns with those who have an active lifestyle, which comes as no surprise. I grew up in horse show arenas, where it’s only you, the outdoors, and a 1,200-pound animal with a mind of its own. As an individual who has a distinctively active lifestyle, I understand the importance of having that certain something to recenter and reconnect with the outdoors. I grew up in the era before tablets and cellphones—we played outside. My love of the outdoors continues today—with horses, but also with four-wheeling, wake surfing, running, hiking, the list continues. Often, I’ll be at an off-road park out of town, and I’ll start talking about real estate to someone I just met and leave with a new friend and an unexpected client. I am not the type of real estate agent who comes to the listing appointment and you never see again. I am a successful professional that is cheering you on for years to come.

Each day, week, month and year that passes, I am continuing to build my strengths, analyze and improve my weaknesses, and learn to navigate the ever-changing field of real estate. I’m confident to say I am seasoned in my local industry, know significantly more than average when it comes to operating procedures of governance structures at all three levels, and know that knowledge will only increase over time. I strive to be the best role model I can be for those young in age, young in their career and young at heart. Understanding the 1031 process and investment property dynamics in my market allows me to predict what clients will need before they think of them and makes for exceptional transactions. By understanding how to communicate with personality types, I am able to increase my lead conversion with personalized texts, emails, and other communications.

Growing up, I always knew I didn’t want a typical office job—I actually started my first business as a pet sitter when I was 13. I’m also a major homebody. Since home is such a special place to me, I understand the importance of “home” for buyers—it’s always much more than just four walls. I specialize in farm and rural transactions, and negotiate many intricate details—oil, gas and mineral rights; septic and water challenges; and solar panel leases. I even negotiate who gets the tractor on closing day. I also have the Resort & Second-Home Property Specialist certification, and I help clients looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a vacation home. As a Gold Award Girl Scout, community service has been a lifelong passion of mine. I’m also on the outreach committee at my church, and I’m a court-appointed special advocate for at-risk youth in foster care. I believe that as a real estate agent, I’m a community partner who is here to help improve the lives of others.

I moved to Lake Tahoe 11 years ago when I absolutely fell in love with the area and the people. I’m an avid outdoorsman. In the summers, I fly fish, wake surf, mountain bike and hike. During the winters I’m very involved in the backcountry snowmobiling world and the Sierra Snowmobile Association. Living in such a unique place gives me a better perspective on having a great work-life balance and puts a large importance on community stewardship and preservation of the natural environment. Working in a predominantly luxury, second home and vacation home community, I generate business through both print and digital marketing. My target client is between 50 and 75 years old, and they still enjoy print. I send out monthly market reports to my farm area of roughly 800 homes. I am strategic with SEO and pay great attention to my personal website and online branding while consistently updating my blog and obtaining past client reviews. I am also very active in hosting open houses on weekends and have been able to convert dozens of clients as a direct result.

Ethics and integrity are the cornerstones of my professional practice. In an industry where trust is paramount, maintaining high ethical standards is not just a professional obligation but a personal commitment. This means being honest and transparent in all dealings, providing accurate information, and always acting in the best interest of my clients. Homeownership is about more than just a financial investment; it’s about securing a future, building a haven and realizing long-held aspirations. Yet so many find themselves lost, not knowing how to navigate this path. My goal is to provide a guiding light, to make the complex simple, the overwhelming manageable, and the distant dream a tangible reality. A significant step in this direction is the “Leading You Home” program, an initiative I helped create with my 2022 LeadershipMAR class at the Mississippi Association of REALTORS®. This program is more than just an educational tool; it’s a bridge to the future. By introducing this program into school systems, we are opening doors for the next generation, enlightening them early on about financial literacy and the joys and challenges of homeownership.

My career is all about the military. I’m an immigrant—a permanent resident of the U.S. and a citizen of the U.K.—and my husband is active duty in the Marine Corps. I’ve closed more VA deals than anyone in my office, and I am passionate about VA loans and helping veterans and active-duty military. I volunteer at the local Veterans of Foreign Wars post and the Armed Forces recruitment station, and I am proud to serve at the local naval base. So far, every single client I have had has been a service member. This is my life, and I will protect and educate these guys no matter what. Referrals are the key to my business! Is it the red hair? Is it the British accent? It could be! But my clients shout my name from the rooftops, and I generate a lot of business through social media and word-of-mouth. I have poured my heart and soul into helping my clients. This isn’t just a job for me—I truly believe this is my calling.

Growing up, I had perfect grades, was respectful to all teachers, and was all around an overachieving student. But there was one trait on which I would constantly receive feedback: my tendency to be a bit chatty. Years later, I’m pleased to say my loquaciousness has been one of my greatest tools in building a successful real estate business! I am constantly talking with everyone I have the pleasure of meeting, and I am proud to have built a 100% referral-based business in a city I have now lived in for just over five years. Each client I serve is a person I have either built a personal relationship with or I have been connected to through a personal referral. I am an active member of my community, constantly and consciously connecting with people whenever possible, whether it’s a stranger in the grocery line, my mechanic, an artist at a local art market, or someone sitting beside me at a restaurant. I believe creating genuine relationships built on kindness and good intentions is the absolute best way to build a network of trusting and happy clients.

I excel at simplifying the buying process in an approachable manner, and I eagerly embrace each opportunity to meet with a new client, guiding them through the process and explaining contracts, local market dynamics and nuances. Face-to-face interactions during open houses allow me to connect with people authentically. In addition, the organic connections formed during open houses are a favorite aspect of my job. I often sense within minutes whether someone would want to work with me. Many clients I’ve met at open houses have become close friends, and I cherish moments like meeting their new baby in the home I helped them find. One memorable story underscores the power of open houses. I met a buyer at an open house who already had an agent, so I didn’t solicit her information or pitch myself. However, a week later, she reached out, expressing her frustration with being overlooked at open houses as a young buyer. This experience led to her choosing me as her agent, and the connection evolved into a supportive relationship. She eventually found her home and now I am assisting her mother in her home search.

Since childhood, I’ve had a deep appreciation for houses. Despite my parents never purchasing a home when I was a child, a brief period of house-hunting when I was in middle school left a lasting impression. Throughout middle and high school, I regularly attended open houses, eager to learn more about the intricate world of real estate. During my junior year in college, I had the opportunity to convert this passion into action through a real estate internship. This hands-on experience not only allowed me to apply my academic knowledge but also presented a unique challenge—balancing a full-time internship, studying for my license and maintaining a full college course load. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of helping my mother purchase her first home and guiding my grandmother in acquiring her first investment property. I am driven to share the transformative impact of wealth-building with my clients and those I care about. Currently, I am on the path to further enrich my knowledge and skills by pursuing a master’s degree in economics at South Dakota State University. Upon completion, I aspire to teach real estate and leadership courses, ensuring that the next generation of professionals is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success.

My specialty is slowing down and building relationships with my buyers and sellers. I want them to feel like they are cared for and hope that all of them have a positive experience working with me. I want my clients to understand that buying or selling a home is so much more than a transaction to me. I’ve sent baby gifts for clients’ little ones, I perfectly curate closing baskets based on my clients’ interests, and I write handwritten cards for closings, holidays, and more. My ultimate goal is to earn the trust of my clients and make what could be an overwhelming, stressful experience a fun one. I was a division one athlete and swam at University of the Pacific on a full ride scholarship. Swimming was a huge part of my life for 17 years. Aside from my personal sphere, I spend time tapping into other networks that I know will generate business in the future. I joined a group called NCAA Athletes of Compass; it has been amazing connecting with like-minded agents from across the country that are also former athletes.

As a young child, I was fascinated with the German language. I independently studied German starting at age 5 and learned to read, write and speak the language following extensive study. This knowledge came in handy when I traveled abroad to Europe, where German was frequently spoken and understood. This experience charged my passion for learning, which has also shaped my real estate career. I have earned three NAR designations that have each propelled my knowledge in real estate: the Luxury Homes Certification, EPRO, and ABR. I stay educated on the local market, utilize technology and accept guidance from mentors. Staying informed about the market helps me present myself as a more knowledgeable agent to everyone I come in contact with and displays competence and professionalism. Real estate gives me a reason to wake up each new day. Like many others, there were periods of time where I felt lost, lacking true passion or purpose. Real estate has given me an immeasurable gift, one in which I am truly grateful: a community, support, friends and a sense of purpose.

In addition to continuing education, I am constantly enhancing my real estate skills through hands-on experiences as a full-time investor. Engaging in the buying, inspecting, renovating and renting process repeatedly mirrors the experience of my clients, providing me with a comprehensive understanding from start to finish. Every year, I embark on an adventure to a country I’ve never visited before. I immerse myself in the local culture, savor the diverse cuisines, and open my mind to new perspectives. So far, my wanderlust has taken me to over 30 countries, including Italy, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Peru, China, Japan, South Korea, Austria and many more. In 2023, witnessing the escalating war in my homeland of Ukraine was heartbreaking. I felt compelled to take action. I focused on assisting Ukrainian immigrants, providing them with the support they need upon arriving in Missouri or Southern Illinois, particularly those facing job losses due to the conflict. Additionally, I allocate a portion of every paycheck to KW Cares, an organization within Keller Williams dedicated to helping people in catastrophic situations.

My pursuit of a real estate license was deeply influenced by my family's experience. Seeing my father's fashion accessory business in New York struggle and eventually close, I learned the importance of real estate as a financial safety net. His smart property investments became our lifeline during hard times. This experience instilled in me an understanding of the value of real estate in providing security and sparked my entrepreneurial spirit. When I began my career in real estate, it didn't seem appropriate to advise clients on buying homes unless I had personally undergone that process. I bought my first property at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Often, I speak with clients who love a property but are second-guessing themselves. Having faced similar doubts myself, wondering if I had made the right choice, I could offer reassurance from my own experience, affirming that it's normal to question, but ultimately, the decision must be right for them.

Obtaining my broker’s license has had the biggest impact on my career. After the course, I took on more roles and responsibilities at the brokerage I was with, and I built my real estate team. From there, the broker’s license led me to new passions in the real estate world, which resulted in opening my very own brokerage. My niche is being “the video girl.” I film a video tour on all my listings, but it doesn’t stop there. Before I meet with any client, I send them a video to introduce myself, allowing them to put a face with a name. I do price and market breakdown videos for my sellers clients as well. Throughout the buying or selling process, clients receive video updates from me, too. They are quick 1–2-minute videos explaining where we are in the process, how the appraisal went, if title work has cleared yet, how to transfer utilities, and more.

After college, I taught elementary school for three years before obtaining my real estate license. I wanted to go into a field where my skills would be transferable. Real estate attracted me because it allowed me to work with people, experience something different every day, teach or advise, and better the lives of others. For my first two years in the business, I did not have a sphere of influence that had the money to buy a home yet, so I relied heavily on open houses. Those open houses also helped me understand neighborhoods, square footage, and people’s preferences. For the past year and a half, my sphere has started purchasing, and that has been most of my business. I dedicate lots of time to getting together with people. I host two huge events for my sphere every year—one cookie exchange and one crawfish boil. I love nothing more than bringing people together and making connections, so it’s been wonderful to be able to do what I love and have it also organically bring in business.

Real estate ownership can be seen as a daunting achievement in my community. Being from the south side of Chicago—a young black woman whose parents were divorced and raised primarily by a single mom who had kids at a younger age—I want to serve my community and to strive for and achieve excellence. I decided to obtain my real estate license in 2020, having always been interested in real estate. I became a real estate investor at 23 when I purchased my first investment property. I recognized the freedom and security it provided to my growing family and me, and I wanted to encourage and aid others to do the same. I hope to inspire other millennials who look like me and who have had similar upbringings—even some of the same fears—and show them that it’s possible, all while having fun doing it. I want to help people understand how to shift their mindset and be able to build generational wealth through real estate.

Whenever I interact with friends or family, they always ask “How’s the market?” To answer this question, I can’t just do the Monday-through-Friday standard job routine; I have to live it, and I have to educate myself beyond the job. I am constantly reading national and local news about business, politics, and most importantly, the economic market in the U.S. and abroad. The book I’m reading right now follows Washington, D.C.’s progression from the emergence of Europeans in the area through 2010. All of this information has helped me understand the history behind the city where I live and work, and I have attained knowledge that is useful for talking with and helping clients. Another talent I bring to the table is garnering attention for our listings and our brand. I’ve led the charge in facilitating press exposure for our listings and team. I’ve created relationships with journalists, which have resulted in over 50 articles, some of which have appeared in national outlets like The New York Times and The Washington Post.

I actually began my professional life as actor. Though my focus is now on real estate, performance will always be an important part of my life. When I was a kid growing up in the Bronx, I was the translator—and negotiator—for my mother, who emigrated from the Dominican Republic. Relying on family members in this way is common amongst first-generation American families in my community, and I realized there were great opportunities for me in real estate. I can often hear the relief in a client’s voice as soon as I start speaking to them in Spanish. My niche is working with people who feel, for whatever reason, like they are outsiders. My clients are diverse, varying widely in age, ethnicity, career and income, and I excel at bridging the gaps created by language and culture. When I do that, I not only earn my clients’ trust and friendship, I also help them achieve their dream of homeownership.

I would say my specialty in real estate is marketing, listings and communication. There is nothing I love more than putting together a great listing presentation, laying out a plan and watching it all come together. I want the best marketing out there and I take pride in that. Whether it be videography, social media, banners, signs, open houses, etc., I am huge on communication and strive to be the very best at that. I have no idea how people sleep at night knowing you haven’t responded to a client, lender or attorney. I try my very best to respond to clients and vendors within 45 minutes or so. As a newly licensed agent in 2019, I marketed heavily on social media, went to many events and sent letters. Over the past few years, I have grown an amazing business, and I thank my clients and community for that.

My real estate business revolves around the vibrant first-generation Hispanic community in my area. A key aspect of my approach is organizing educational seminars tailored to address this community’s unique needs. My seminars cover both the basics of the homebuying process and specific information about local real estate trends. By demystifying the real estate journey, I aim to empower individuals and families to make informed decisions about homeownership. I’m also deeply committed to giving back to my community. I’m proud to participate in the Blessing Baskets Initiative, a food drive event I organize that supports needy families. Whether it’s supporting youth programs, participating in neighborhood improvement projects, or contributing to local charities, I believe in reinvesting in the community that has entrusted me with their real estate needs. It’s not just about facilitating transactions; it’s about being a positive force and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those around me. I believe the adventure of finding a home should be a great experience for everyone involved.

I am proud to lead Idaho’s number one LGBTQ+-owned and -operated real estate team. Currently in Idaho there are only 15 municipalities out of 44 in the state that have city ordinances protecting LGBTQ+ folks on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. My niche is advocating for equal rights and defending the often vulnerable civil liberties of LGBTQ+ folks in my state and across the nation. I generate business by being a fierce, out, loud and proud leader for my community. Being a real estate professional is not just about assisting folks in buying and selling real estate but in being a community builder. I am very involved in my local real estate association, Boise Regional REALTORS®. I chair the Cultural Diversity Committee as well as sit on the Communications Advisory Committee. Through my leadership role with the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance and with Boise Regional REALTORS®, I actively collaborate with other local associations to create partnerships. I am also quite involved politically. Every year I attend Idaho’s REALTOR® Day at the Capitol where we get an insight into the happenings of the Idaho Legislature.

My passion for innovative strategies drives me to explore platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube for out-of-the-box ideas. Currently, my main focus is first-time buyers, and I generate a significant portion of my business through Instagram, which connects me with a younger audience. On Instagram, my strategy involves a mix of engaging with others and posting relatable content. The clients I meet through Instagram are some of my favorite clients because the power of social media gives you an instant connection to people and a sense of trust even though you haven’t actually met in person yet. Relocation is another area I’m passionate about. Having experienced the challenges of moving to a new place myself, I understand the overwhelming feeling that comes with it. In 2024, I aim to expand my business by working with more clients in the relocation niche. I am the 2024 chair of the Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS® Young Professionals Network. In this role, I focus on expanding my networking skills and building valuable industry relationships.

My degree in advertising has had a huge impact on my career and what I put out to the public to successfully advertise myself. Advertising is a very important tool when you go deep into understanding the consumer and the market you want to target. Attaining that advertising degree required me to go through the University of South Carolina School of Journalism, which equipped me with a very high level of clear communication as well. My father has been a REALTOR® for 37 years (and counting), which is where my desire to pursue a real estate career stems from. When I wasn’t in school, I was in the office with him, going on showing appointments and helping him put up yard signs for his listings. I am currently studying for my NASCLA general contractor’s license. I want to eventually get into building homes, but this knowledge will also assist me in serving my clients by helping them find reasonable solutions, answer any questions they may have during showings and listing appointments, and successfully navigate inspection reports.

My favorite part about working with first-time buyers is the opportunity to build trust, educate and empower them in one of their biggest life milestones. As an intentional communicator, playing the role of adviser, counselor and friend during this process always feels more like a blessing than a job. In addition to educating clients one on one, I co-founded The How To Buy A House Class in 2022 and expanded the company nationwide in 2023, serving home buyers in 30 U.S. cities with more than 150 in-person classes. This free, low-pressure experience breaks down barriers to entering the market and pairs attendees with a trusted local expert. Additionally, our agent partners also benefit; hosting classes is a genuine avenue to connect face-to-face with new leads and build rapport within the community, plus they gain access to our training, tools and national referral network. Providing accessible homebuying education on a larger-than-myself scale has been a dream come true.

I strive to be a genuine friend to everyone I work with, just as I would want as a client making significant decisions. The world needs more friendship and individuals who genuinely look out for one another. By establishing a friendship with the people I assist, I am giving them the ability to trust me. During our first meeting, I take the time to address their individual needs, and our conversation can last anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours. Together, we meticulously go through each step of the real estate transaction, discussing the options and potential outcomes of every scenario. This approach ensures that my clients are well-informed and equipped to make sound decisions regarding the home itself, inspection results, financing and any other situation that arises. I also recognize the importance of personal growth. I recently hired a successful business coach who challenges me to grow in areas where it’s needed, pushes me outside my comfort zone, and helps me tap into my full potential as a real estate professional.