On a quiet morning, I stand by the window of my hotel room at the Hyatt Regency in Bethesda, observing the ever-changing skyline. Older buildings, once familiar landmarks, are being knocked down and replaced with modern structures. Yet, amidst this transformation, my gaze settles on the Capital Crescent Trail—a constant through the years, much like the enduring values that guide my life.
Years ago, I embarked on a career with a burgeoning company called Realty Information Group, which later evolved into CoStar Group. This experience wasn't just about aiding corporate growth—it was about discovering my own capabilities and potential. The bustling streets of Bethesda and the challenges of early career life served as my proving grounds. Each week, as I biked down the tranquil path of the Capital Crescent Trail, I connected with nature and myself, a ritual that grounded me amid the chaos.
The deepest call to change, however, came not from within my career but from my heart. I moved to Southeastern Connecticut, drawn by my love for Camille Bray and her welcoming family. There, I founded Seaport Real Estate Services in Mystic, surrounded by the serene landscapes and the rich history of the coast. This new environment offered not just a home, but a new way to grow: by nurturing others. My real estate agency became a hub of knowledge, where I surrounded myself with a distinguished group of professionals, including a former appraiser, an MBA, a graphic designer, a CCIM, an auctioneer, an insurance professional, and a social media expert, as well as top agents who rank in the top 1% nationally. Together, we share generously the insights gleaned from a distinguished education and hard-earned lessons, always welcoming experienced agents looking to elevate their careers.
Today, my growth continues as I dedicate myself to empowering my real estate agents and clients. I offer them an unparalleled depth of market understanding, helping them navigate the complexities of real estate with the same acumen that helps me guide a nascent company to prominence.
As I bike the Capital Crescent Trail once again, reflecting on my journey from a young professional in Bethesda to a mentor and leader in Mystic, I realize that my path is about more than just personal success. It is about making a meaningful impact—about using my experiences, both successes and failures, to enlighten and inspire others.
The trail, with its unchanging course and natural beauty, reminds me of the importance of consistency in values and purpose. In a world that never stops changing, my commitment to growth and adding value remains steadfast, echoing the enduring path of the trail beneath my wheels.
When I return to the hotel, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. I am ready to continue my work, armed with the knowledge that every experience—from the challenging early days at CoStar to my leadership role at Seaport Real Estate Services—is a step on my path of discovery and impact.
This journey, much like the trail I so cherish, is my way of connecting deeper with the world around me, and most importantly, with the people whose lives I touch.
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