Buying our first home in the 1980s was a wonderful experience. Our Realtor wasn’t just an agent—she felt like family. The transaction was smooth, and during a time when many buyers were facing interest rates as high as 18%, we secured a loan at just 9%. It was an experience that built trust and confidence in the home-buying process.

Years later, when it was time to sell that same home, the experience was very different—and it changed the way I would approach real estate forever.

By the time we were ready to sell, our original Realtor was no longer practicing, so we worked with another agent from the same brokerage. At that time, buyer representation, as we know it today, didn’t exist. Agents were either listing agents or sub-agents, often assisting buyers while technically working in the seller’s best interest.

Our agent brought a buyer who loved our home and wanted to assume our FHA loan, which was fully assumable at the time. What we were not advised of was that assuming the loan would leave us financially responsible if the buyer defaulted. The house—and the loan—would come back to us, regardless of its condition.

We were young, starting a family, and not in a position to take on that risk. The buyers also had a prior bankruptcy on their credit report and did not have to qualify for the loan, which further increased our risk.

Our agent never explained these risks. We had to research the details ourselves and make our own phone calls—long before online resources were readily available. When we raised concerns, the conversation shifted away from our financial safety and toward pushing the deal forward.

That moment made it clear that no one in the transaction was truly looking out for us.

That experience became a turning point.

When I later decided to get my real estate license, I made a commitment to operate differently. My goal was simple: my clients’ best interests would always come first. That philosophy still guides how I work today and how I lead my team.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve clients in such an important part of their lives, and I take that responsibility seriously. I’m also fortunate to work with a broker I trust completely. After 18 years of working together, we share a clear understanding of expectations, ethics, and how to navigate even the most complex situations.

A knowledgeable broker sets the tone for an entire brokerage, and ours stays actively involved in changes to real estate law, regulations, and industry standards. That depth of experience has helped shape me into a stronger, more confident agent.

Because of that foundation, I don’t get caught up in unnecessary distractions. I trust the contracts. I trust the process. And my team and I know both well enough to guide our clients through smooth, efficient transactions—even when challenges arise.

Before becoming a Realtor, I spent four years as a loan officer. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how lenders, title companies, and transactions work behind the scenes. It allows me to ask the right questions, anticipate potential issues, and think creatively when solutions are needed.

Our brokerage believes in flexibility and fairness. Commissions are negotiable, and every client’s situation is different. We focus on making recommendations based on market conditions, client goals, and what truly makes sense—not on rigid rules or one-size-fits-all approaches.

Over the years, I’ve encountered situations where doing the right thing required creativity, collaboration, and sometimes personal sacrifice. In one transaction, a seller facing foreclosure didn’t have the funds needed to close. Rather than letting the deal fall apart—and allowing long-term financial consequences—we worked closely with the title company and buyer to structure a solution that allowed everyone to move forward.

Those are the moments that define how I practice real estate.

There are many great agents in this industry, but not all operate the same way. My approach is built on accountability, transparency, and service. I believe that when you prioritize people over commissions and approach each transaction with integrity, the results speak for themselves.

That philosophy has guided my career, shaped my team, and earned the trust of the clients I’m privileged to serve.

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a property, or navigating a complex transaction, you deserve representation that protects your interests and puts your goals first.

If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, experienced Realtor who values clarity, honesty, and thoughtful guidance, I’d love the opportunity to work with you.

Contact me today to schedule a consultation and start your real estate journey with confidence.