Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Kuhl and Kelly Donawa. They shared their story with us below:
Kelly Donawa and Amber Kuhl have nearly 20 years of combined experience in real estate, a career they both came to after successful careers in different fields.
Kelly, a Broker and manager at The Collection Real Estate Team, JLA Realty, spent 13 years working in technology sales before entering the real estate profession. “It taught me the value of providing exceptional customer service and solutions to any issue that may arise,” Donawa says. “I transitioned into a career that would allow me to help others with their individual goals, as opposed to those of a large corporation.”
Amber, also a Broker and manager for The Collection Real Estate Team, worked in a designer kitchen and bath showroom, learning the inner workings of both the design and construction industries. “Real estate gives me the ability to express my creative side through marketing properties while simultaneously being able to fulfill a passion for helping others. The success of The Collection is just a dream come true for me.” Kuhl says. Together, they manage a team of skilled agents that focus on buyers and sellers across all of Houston.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Both Kuhl and Donawa agree that real estate is an ever-changing industry. “Planning for inevitable highs and lows in the market is essential. One piece of advice that we give all new agents is to make sure that you have budgeted enough money to live off of through your first few closings. For some agents, this happens in the first couple of months, but for some, it can be a year or more.”
“You will hear the word “plan” so many times when getting started as an agent. Planning is preparation, which is key. If there was one thing I would go back and tell myself the first year in the real estate industry, it would be to time block.” It’s so easy to lose an entire day or two to “putting out fires,” so to speak, and this can be a real struggle when you are getting started. It takes some time to learn that you can be so much more productive with thoughtful scheduling and planning.” Kuhl says.
Kuhl also states, “This business is built on tenacity, grit, and relationships. Sure, there are peaks and valleys, but in the end, the relationships that you form will be a testament to your success with fellow agents, industry partners, and, most importantly, your clients. Never forget to cherish the relationships that you form.”
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
With a reputation for making each client and agent feel like they are the only one, Donawa and Kuhl are patient, thorough, and effective problem solvers. “No two real estate transactions are the same; each one deserves care and attention to detail.” Donawa states.
“We pride ourselves on stellar marketing and a beautiful, recognizable brand. Each time we hear from one of our agents that a client saw our sign in a yard, and how much they love them, it’s still so special to us,” both Kelly and Amber agreed. Clients’ recognition and appreciation for The Collection branding is an honor for the team.
Actively involved in the community, members of the team donate a portion of all proceeds to charities such as ThisIsHouston, an animal rescue group, Preservation Houston, Women for Women International, and local booster clubs and food banks. It also supports many other nonprofits, as well as global and local disaster relief efforts.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Donawa says, “To achieve success in the real estate industry, several qualities are essential. First and foremost, effective communication skills play a vital role. Being able to clearly convey information, actively listen to clients, and negotiate effectively are crucial aspects of being a successful real estate professional.
Navigating stressful situations is another key quality. Real estate transactions can be complex and high-pressure, requiring the ability to remain calm and composed under challenging circumstances. The capacity to problem-solve, make quick decisions, and handle unexpected challenges is vital for success in this field.
Additionally, a successful real estate agent should possess the ability to identify and understand the specific needs of their clients. By actively listening and asking relevant questions, they can determine what their clients are looking for and make recommendations accordingly. This personalized approach helps build trust and ensures that the opportunities presented align with the client’s specific requirements.”
Contact Info:
- Website: thecollectionhouston.com
- Instagram: @thecollectionhouston
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecollectionhouston
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecollectionrealestate7913
- Other: https://houstonagentmagazine.com/whos-who-2020/collection-real-estate-team-jla-realty/
