Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Smith.
Andrea, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born and raised in Houston. In fact, I am 7th-generation Texan, so my roots here are deep. After graduating from Stephen F. Austin State University, I embarked on my professional career as a special education teacher in Spring Branch ISD and Katy ISD. Seventeen amazing and fulfilling years and a Master’s degree later, I decided to transition out of the classroom in order to focus on a career that allowed me to put my love of people, paperwork, and homes to use as a REALTOR. Three years later, my business continues to grow due to a dedicated support network of clients, friends, and family who continue to refer their real estate needs to me. I am amazed on a daily basis by how rewarding this career is, and the opportunity it provides me to support families and individuals during an important transition in their lives.
Has it been a smooth road?
I wouldn’t say my path has been without bumps in the road, but it’s the bumps that make the adventure a fun one. Transitioning away from a steady paycheck and into a career that is 100% commission-based was terrifying. However, knowing that I am fully responsible for the financial outcome of my work is a huge motivator. Real estate is a service business, and I pride myself on always putting my clients’ needs and welfare ahead of my paycheck. I truly believe this is why my business continues to thrive, despite the seasonal shifts in the real estate market.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I began my career in real estate just as Hurricane Harvey was bearing down on the Houston area. My first listing was literally underwater within a week of being under contract. Seeing the impact of property damage on my clients and friends absolutely changed how I looked at my role as a REALTOR. I was struggling with the idea of walking away from teaching, which was obviously about serving others and beginning a new career in a field that some may see as more financially-driven. Having the opportunity to work with clients who had lost the value of their biggest financial investment and the security that a home provides, changed all of that. When I adjusted my perspective and decided that I could run a real estate business based on service, it became clear to me that I was doing exactly what I was meant to do. Being a resource to clients beyond their real estate transaction is a huge point of pride to me.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Houston is home. I love that we have neighborhoods of historical significance, along with booming areas of new development. Raising my children in an area with easy access to museums and theatres has been a huge blessing! Watching Houston transition from being a single-industry city to one with new industries entering the market at a rapid pace has been exciting. If I had to name a least favorite aspect, it would probably be the ongoing road construction, but as each major thoroughfare nears completion, that gets better.
Contact Info:
- Address: Andrea Smith, REALTOR
Keller Williams Premier Realty
22762 Westheimer Parkway, Suite 120
Katy, Texas 77450 - Website: https://www.har.com/athomeinhouston
- Phone: 832-46-7071
- Email: andreamsmith@kw.com
- Instagram: andrea_smith_77
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndreaSmithRealtorHouston/
- Twitter: @Andrea_Smith_77
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