The problem? My budget wasn’t exactly HGTV-level. So, I became a DIY warrior, stretching every dollar like it was in yoga class. Over the next nine years, I painstakingly picked upgrades, one project at a time. Somewhere along the way, I developed a strange habit: endlessly browsing Zillow. At first, it was just innocent curiosity—checking out other people’s upgrades, getting ideas. But soon, I was comparing prices, square footage, and layouts like a real estate detective. Why did this house cost so much more than that one down the street? How could 200 extra square feet make such a difference? I had questions, and I needed answers.

And just like that, my Pinterest rabbit hole turned into a real estate career. Turns out, all those years of obsessing over renovations and market trends weren’t just for fun—they were training for my next big chapter. Who knew “poop brown” walls could lead to something so rewarding?

I started going to open houses—just casually at first, like someone testing out free samples at the grocery store. Around that time, LVP flooring was becoming all the rage, and I was on the hunt for something pet-friendly because, let’s face it, my furry friends aren’t exactly kind to carpets.

Every day, I’d check online to see if my favorite homes were having open houses. If they weren’t, it felt like being left out of a great party. And before you ask, yes, I could have just called a real estate agent to show me the property. But here’s the thing: I didn’t want to waste their time. I knew by then that agents didn’t get paid to show homes—they got paid to sell them. And since I wasn’t exactly in the “serious buyer” phase, I figured it was better to stick with open houses and avoid any awkward, ‘So, when are you writing an offer?’ conversations.

My first year in real estate was brutal—no sugarcoating it. I imagine most newly licensed agents feel the same way, but honestly, that first year nearly broke me. Let me tell you, when they say this isn’t a “get rich quick” gig, they aren’t kidding. It took me months to figure out how to separate the serious buyers from the tire kickers, and even longer to realize I was spending way too much time on people who had no intention of following through.

Year one taught me a lot about people in general—how to read them, manage expectations, and spot the ones who think real estate agents get paid just to show homes. You know, the ones who swear they’re cash buyers… until you ask for proof of funds, and suddenly, poof—they vanish like a bad magic trick.

But year two? That’s when the real lessons about real estate kicked in. I learned to focus my energy on clients who valued my time and expertise. And more importantly, I learned what true success looks like in this business. It’s not just about the commission checks (though, let’s be real, those matter). It’s about helping people achieve their dreams—being there when they unlock the door to their very own piece of the American dream.

My proudest moment wasn’t closing on a high-priced listing or landing a flashy deal. It was helping a buyer close on one of the least expensive homes I’ve ever sold. The market was tough, and we worked together for what felt like forever. But the look on their face the day we closed—that pure joy and sense of accomplishment—that was the real reward.

Real estate is hard. It’s unpredictable, exhausting, and at times, downright chaotic. But it’s also fulfilling in a way I never imagined. Helping people find their place in the world—literally and figuratively—is the kind of success that lasts long after the ink dries on the contract.

And that’s why I’m here for the long haul, ready to tackle whatever challenges come next, one home at a time.

Feel free to give me a call if you’re thinking about changing up your wall colors. I’d be more than happy to share my thoughts—and trust me, I have opinions. Plus, I’ve got a Pinterest board packed with ideas just waiting to make your walls the envy of the neighborhood. Let’s bring those walls to life together!

And if you’re looking to buy or sell a house, I’d be just as thrilled to help you with that too. Whether it’s finding your dream home or getting top dollar for your current one, I’m here to make the process as smooth—and maybe even as fun—as picking out the perfect shade of paint.