I was born and raised in New Orleans, LA, where I met and married my husband, Tom, and began our family of four sons. Due to a career change for Tom, we relocated to Baton Rouge. After our boys were old enough, I decided to return to working a part-time job that lasted several years.
Soon I felt that I wanted more -- a more meaningful job where I could really make a difference for people needing assistance. I love being outdoors, wanted to learn about home construction, and decided that perhaps real estate appraisal would work for me. At that time in Louisiana, there was a requirement to sell real estate for two years as a licensed salesperson in order to qualify for the appraisal exam, so I started with the courses for real estate sales.
In November 1987, I was licensed to sell real estate. I carefully chose the company I was to affiliate with as I wanted to benefit from association with the top professionals in the area. My broker-in-charge was one of the older members of the local Board of Realtors and also a certified appraiser. I learned a lot every day from the top-selling agents in the area.
After two years I discovered that I knew there was no way I would enjoy appraisal work as my primary career. I was hooked on sales and marketing because the people contact made the work a pleasure. I loved selling real estate and I knew that I had found my career --- and I could do it anywhere, so I wouldn't be tied down to staying in Louisiana.
As a child, horses were my passion. I learned to ride in Audubon Park in New Orleans. I rode regularly until graduation from high school but then put them on the back burner while I got a life. Before our children started to spread their wings, I was able to acquire my first horse and then a second. And even as the boys left home I still enjoyed riding and studying/training dressage and jumping.
Of course, my real estate work always took precedence, which meant that I might only get to ride once a week, which was okay. But I would have to find a time when it wasn't too hot to ride and I don't really enjoy riding at 6 a.m. So Tom and I decided that we would consider relocating if we could find a place we both loved... and here we are.
In December 1996 everything came together and we made the move. I initially worked for another company and have only recently moved (Sept. 2022) my license to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Lifestyle Properties, an exciting move that I am sure will benefit all of my clients. Helping folks like you make life-changing decisions (for many, moving to another home is just that), helping them get a good deal, assisting with financing and inspections, insurance, and legal requirements . . . it is SO rewarding. I have worked with some of the kindest and appreciative people -- many (maybe that should read "most") become friends. Now isn't that the BEST kind of job to have?!