I grew up in St.Catharines on 8 acres of escarpment: think Ferris Bueller, if I’m not dating myself too much. My dad and my grandfather sold real estate in Niagara, so the conversation around our kitchen table revolved around clients, homes, and land, and it still does.
I saw first-hand the hours, hard work, and commitment that the industry demanded. In 1994, after high school, (ack…I dated myself again) I decided to move to Guelph to go to the University of Guelph for an English lit degree. I worked all through university in the Cafeteria and in the kitchen at the Brass Taps, affectionately called The Keg back then. In the summers I tree-planted. I didn’t know it then, but Guelph had its hold on me.
I bought my first house in 2000, which I turned into a rental a few years later. I also earned a journalism degree, worked in landscape construction, and with a large marketing firm in Toronto, and merchandised products in big box stores in the area. Real estate had always been in the back of my mind and you could say it was in my blood. I wasn’t happy with the work I was doing. So, in 2006 I took the plunge and started my career with Royal LePage® Royal City Realty and I haven’t looked back.
I realize now that everything I did leading up to real estate has helped me. Landscaping, marketing, journalism, and of course my dad. He was a successful, principled Realtor, and was involved as a volunteer, advocate, and leader for the industry. I have very much followed in his footsteps.
My business has always been based on great communication and providing excellent service. When I was selling, I would guide my clients in an open and honest way, while giving them as much information as I can so they can comfortably make the best decisions for themselves and their families.
As Broker of Record, I have applied the same practices to our great REALTORS®. I am always available, always happy to help, and strive to assist our agents reach their personal and business goals.
Are you a cat or a dog person?
I'm both, let's face it.
What business / career achievement makes you proud?
We won Brokerage of the Year in 2019 for our charity work for the Shelter Foundation though the hard work of our agents and staff.
What did you do before real estate?
I tree-planted in Alberta, landscaped, worked for a large marketing company and got my Journalism degree.