Lessons from Local Leaders:

Nicole Garner

Empowering Real Estate Clients: A Conversation with Nicole Garner of Colener Realty

Navigating the real estate industry requires more than just market knowledge; it takes passion, transparency, and a commitment to serving others. Nicole Garner, real estate broker and founder of Colener Realty, embodies these qualities and more. In a recent conversation, she shared her journey into real estate, her approach to educating clients, and how she is building a firm based on integrity and empowerment.

From IT to Real Estate: A Career Pivot with Purpose

Nicole’s journey into real estate was fueled by both personal investment aspirations and a desire to build a meaningful career. With a background in IT and years as a government contractor, she found herself looking for a path that aligned with her long-term financial goals and personal values. What started as a way to build capital and expand her real estate portfolio turned into a passion for helping others navigate the home buying and selling process.

“I’ve been a landlord for about ten years, and I got my real estate license to gain more insight into the industry. What I didn’t expect was how much I would enjoy helping people in real estate,” Nicole shared.

After seven years as an agent, she took her expertise to the next level by obtaining her broker’s license and establishing her own firm, Colener Realty. Her goal? To create an environment that aligns with her core values while offering flexibility and superior client service.

Building a Boutique Firm with a Purpose

Colener Realty isn’t about rapid expansion; it’s about quality over quantity. Nicole emphasizes the importance of working with like-minded agents who share her mission of serving the community and empowering clients through education and transparency.

“I want my firm to remain a boutique real estate firm that fosters an environment of professionalism and integrity,” she explained. “I’m intentional about the people who join my team. They should be passionate about helping others build wealth through real estate while upholding high ethical standards.”

Educating and Empowering Clients

One of Nicole’s biggest priorities is ensuring that her clients are well-informed throughout the real estate process. Whether she’s guiding a first-time homebuyer, advising a seller on multiple offers, or helping landlords understand their options, her approach is always rooted in education.

“I don’t make decisions for adults,” she said. “I provide them with the information they need to make informed choices that are best for them and their families.”

She takes the time to explain every aspect of a transaction, ensuring her clients fully understand their options and can move forward with confidence. Her hands-on approach not only builds trust but also helps clients feel empowered to make decisions that align with their goals.

Marketing in a Digital World

Like many real estate professionals, Nicole recognizes the importance of marketing in growing her business. She leverages multiple platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and email marketing to reach different demographics. However, she admits that keeping up with the ever-changing social media landscape can be challenging.

“Marketing is like having two full-time jobs,” she laughed. “I’m constantly working on expanding my network, attending events, and improving my online presence.”

Her strategy also includes attending networking events, such as the Empower Her Global Business Summit, to connect with other professionals and exchange insights on industry trends.

Navigating the Current Real Estate Market

With the housing market constantly evolving, Nicole helps her clients navigate challenges like rising interest rates and inventory shortages by offering creative solutions. From exploring multi-generational living options to leveraging down payment assistance programs, she encourages clients to think outside the box.

“Everyone has to live somewhere,” she explained. “If your parents are downsizing, why not consider swapping homes? If you have extra space, consider adding an auxiliary dwelling unit (ADU) for rental income. There are always creative ways to make real estate work for you.”

Balancing Business and Personal Life

As a business owner, Nicole understands the struggle of maintaining balance between work and personal life. She admits there’s no perfect formula but emphasizes the importance of prioritizing tasks based on daily needs.

“You just fit it in,” she said. “Some days are more business-heavy, while others focus on personal life. It’s all about prioritizing what’s most important at the moment.”

A Trusted Advisor in the Community

Beyond buying and selling homes, Nicole sees herself as a trusted advisor, helping clients with estate planning, navigating inherited properties, and offering guidance on real estate investment strategies. Her commitment to integrity and transparency ensures that whether she can personally assist a client or refer them to a trusted professional, they always receive the support they need.

“My goal is to be a resource,” she said. “Even if I can’t help someone directly, I want to point them in the right direction to someone who can.”

Final Thoughts

When asked about a quote or mantra that has inspired her, Nicole shared, “It’s better to live your own life imperfectly than to live someone else’s perfectly.”

Her journey into real estate is a testament to this belief. By following her passion, building a business that aligns with her values, and staying committed to educating and empowering her clients, Nicole Garner is making a lasting impact in the real estate industry.

For those looking for an experienced, transparent, and dedicated real estate broker, Colener Realty is a name to trust.

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