"My passion for marketing intersected with my interest in helping people. And honestly, my Dad always said this is what I should do and for once I listened. Glad I did because he was right. We were looking for a home right before I decided to pursue getting my license and I was so way over-the-top with the search and the comps and the fit and finish, that our Realtor at that time actually suggested I get serious about getting my license. I've been in different markets since then, Columbia SC, Citrus County FL, earned my Broker's licenses in both North and South Carolina. I absolutely LOVE the Greenville market. When it comes down to it though, my clients inspire me. I want them to have the best experience possible so I am constantly striving for improvement to serve them better.”
What do you love most about living in the Upstate?
"There is always something to do, some music to experience or wonderful people to hang out with...all with the gorgeous backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains! The active lifestyle is so amazing to me. Even in the rain people walk down Main Street! I wish everyone could experience living on this level. I investigated many other places before setting roots down in the Upstate, and no other place I have been has been close to the quality of life I enjoy here."
Where is your favorite place to eat in the Upstate?
"So difficult to narrow it down but it comes down to either Bricktops or The Lazy Goat. But, I love Jianna's and Saffron and Lieu's and Soby's and Maestro's...way too many to list. Foodie paradise!"
What do you love to do in your free time?
"I love spending time with my family! But beyond chasing grandkids, I like hiking, live music, kayaking, fishing, playing piano, and gardening. I am a member of the Travelers Rest Garden Club where I enjoy learning more about gardening and even occasionally serve as a docent at the historic Kilgore Lewis House. We live on Lake Robinson so our kayaks are in the water frequently and we also enjoy trying to fish for dinner occasionally. We have enjoyed a few meals courtesy of the lake but we are far from professionals. We love hiking with our friends and also completely enjoy all the live music and various festivals in the area. There really is something going on all the time and we love it. And I would be remiss if I didn't mention that I was supposed to play piano for a living having originally gone to college on a piano performance scholarship however, when they shared the slim odds of me becoming an actual rock star, and shared my expected income from an arts degree, I quickly switched my major. I have played with a local band for charity and will do it again someday, but it will not be on a professional level."
What is your niche or specialization within the real estate market?
"Lifestyle homes are my first thought. Since becoming a young widow, I honestly live each day like a bonus day. So my enthusiasm for our area lakes, mountain areas, and country clubs has really served me and my clients well. (And don't let my list of hobbies fool you, I love golf too, I'm just terrible at it! Somebody has to drive the cart!) I have assisted people build their family estates, helped navigate 1031 exchanges, helped down-size, up-size, right-size, find their dream home, and sell their home...my niche is best described as assisting clients achieve their real estate goals...whatever they may be. And I really do always have the BEST clients."
What values do you prioritize in your real estate business?
"Integrity and a sincere drive to make each transaction the smoothest it can be. My clients know that they can count on me to dig up facts, negotiate with builders, be a step ahead of the other side and do it honestly every time. As a fiduciary, their interests are my priority."
What advice do you have for anyone looking to buy or sell right now?
"Do it! The "right time" to buy or sell real estate is when you WANT to buy or sell. It is just like anything else in life. You just need to know how to navigate all the variables the best way possible! Interest rates change. Pricing changes. Trends change. It is all in how you handle the changes. And, I would say that this decision is so important, that you owe it to yourself to make sure the agent you select is the best one for you. A good agent can make all the difference in a transaction. You need someone you can count on for what generally is the largest purchase you will make in your life. Oh, and one more thing...YES you should have an agent that represents YOU when purchasing from a builder! The "agent on duty" represents the builder and has their interests protected. Who is protecting your interests as a buyer? And literally hundreds of other tidbits could be shared here too but I save that for later. I could talk real estate all.day.long.for.years. (ask my husband, he'll confirm)."
In a parallel universe (where you're not a real estate agent), what do you think you'd be doing professionally?
"I would have loved to be a rock star but reality is, I probably would be in marketing which is where I was prior to real estate. I just love the whole puzzle of defining what people like, figuring out what pricing the market would accept and then figuring out how to put advertising dollars to work. Statistics are helpful, but people will ALWAYS surprise you so you can't be a one trick pony. And honestly, I don't like offices, so I am very thankful to have the opportunity to serve my real estate clients instead of sitting behind a marketing desk!"
"My dad is in Real Estate and has been most of my life. I wanted to work with him and continue the family business! Seeing how much he loved his clients and being able to support people and still balance family life was definitely inspiring!"
What do you love the most about living in the Upstate?
"I grew up in Lyman and spent most of my childhood in the Spartanburg area. After college I moved back to the Upstate and settled in Greenville. I love this city so much! The people, the downtown, the parks and how so much of the city can be enjoyed outside. Our family really enjoys all parts of the city!"
Where is your favorite place to eat in the Upstate?
"My most frequented lunch spot is definitely Pomegranate on Main. You can find me here at least once a week! For dinner, we love the 05 for a local scene and always Oku or Coral for the fun, upbeat atmosphere! Most often on the weekends we are at the Commons!"
What do you love to do in your free time?
"I spend a lot of time with my family and friends and we travel often! I love going to new places and experiencing new things. I have two boys that keep me busy with sports and we love to just get out and ride the golf cart downtown or just walk the Swamp Rabbit Trail."
What is your niche or specialization within the real estate market?
"I have been in the business since 2008 so I have worked with buyers and sellers in all areas and all parts of their real estate journey. From first time homebuyers who need maybe more emotional support, guidance and knowledge about the home buying process in general to empty nesters who are downsizing and familiar with the process but want simplicity and ease. To me, this job has always been about the people I’m representing and not so much about the type of property."
What values do you prioritize in your real estate business?
"I think honestly and transparency are two huge things with clients. I want my clients to trust me and know that I will support them and take care of them throughout the whole process. I also value the relationships with other agents and have a good working relationship with them. That has always been super important to me!"
What advice do you have for anyone looking to buy or sell right now?
"This market is tough. Not just for buyers and sellers but also for us agents too. I think my biggest advice is to have someone on your side--find an experienced agent who you trust and really lean into their advice on navigating this market. Also, talk with lenders beforehand to know what your best options are for purchasing."
In a parallel universe (where you're not a real estate agent), what do you think you'd be doing professionally?
"Hmm…that’s a hard one! I hope to one day make wine with my husband in Italy! That would be fun!"
"I really believe home is where the heart is! So, I love getting to know my clients well enough to help them find a house they love enough to make their home!"
What do you love the most about living in the Upstate?
"I love that I can enjoy all four seasons but with no harsh extremes. I love that I can be either in the mountains or at a lake or beach within a few hours drive. And lastly, I'm a foodie at heart, so I love all the independent, delicious restaurants all within a short drive!"
Where is your favorite place to eat in the Upstate?
"Are you really going to make me pick just one? I can't! On any given day, you can find me at either Coral, Nose Dive, Carmella's, Camp, Latinos, Paloma, or Juniper!"
What do you love to do in your free time?
"I love to open my home and host dinner parties and get togethers...I welcome any opportunity to laugh and share life with others. I enjoy gardening, reading, being involved with my local church, traveling, and spending time with family and friends."
What is your niche or specialization within the real estate market?
"I love being able to help anyone at any price point or season in life. I pride myself in providing the same respect, expertise, and service to someone in a $200k price point or a $2M price point."
What values do you prioritize in your real estate business?
"This is the most significant financial transaction in someone's life. They deserve an advocate who thrives on excellence, is an expert on their local market , and someone who operates with ethics and integrity!"
What advice do you have for anyone looking to buy or sell right now?
"Make it a priority to meet with a solid agent first. There's never a better time than right now!"
In a parallel universe (where you're not a real estate agent), what do you think you'd be doing professionally?
"I have always had a love for broadcast journalism and at one point wanted to be the next Diane Sawyer! A highlight for me was working as an intern at a CBS affiliate during college. Hands down, real estate is far more fulfilling!"
