After years of navigating corporate America, I yearned for something more. Turning challenges into stepping stones, I forged my own path, seeking a fulfilling life where I can positively impact my community.
For most of my life, I have been open to embracing change, trying new things and shifting paths when the one I am on no longer makes me happy. The first time I was faced with such a choice was when I went to college in North Carolina with a volleyball scholarship, studying athletic training and physical therapy. As an athlete, I thought this was the natural fit for me. However, I quickly realized it wasn’t something I was passionate about.
It wasn’t until my father suffered a stroke that my priorities in life completely shifted. I wasn’t willing to be away at college when my family needed me. I dropped out to be there for my family and help take care of my father through his recovery.
Having never finished my degree, I feared my opportunities may be limited, but I was completely wrong. I found a great job at an insurance company. My days were filled with negotiating with attorneys on major accident claims—it wasn’t for the faint of heart, but I knew the work I was doing was making a difference for the people I worked with.
For several years, I continued working there, finding success in a challenging position. Then, one day, I woke up, and it hit me: I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life in corporate America.
For as long as I can remember, my number one goal has been to make a positive impact in the world. In insurance, I enjoyed helping people, but I wanted to do it on my own terms, without the restrictions of the corporate setting. The monotony of my job began to make me feel unfulfilled, and a burning entrepreneurial spirit within me urged me to take the leap into the unknown.
First, I tried my hand at a small business venture, selling pro sports merchandise subscription boxes. The freedom and total control I had over my business was empowering. While it was challenging learning to run a business on all fronts, doing everything from marketing to account balancing, I loved it. On a small scale, it did well, but I recognized how difficult it would be to upscale the business on my own.
As I grappled with what to do, a REALTOR® reached out. They specialize in helping small business owners purchase homes. At the meeting, I expressed just how new this business was. It was then that the REALTOR® said, “I can tell you’re great with people. Have you ever thought about real estate?”
That simple suggestion changed everything. Right when I got home, I looked up what the job entailed. It would allow me to continue embracing my entrepreneurial spirit while helping people through such a life-changing process—I applied for real estate courses and received my REALTORS® license in 2015.
The initial days in real estate were far from glamorous. My first three real estate deals were riddled with setbacks. I took on the transactions many REALTORS® would shy away from. These early experiences, though arduous, shaped my resilience and expertise. The adversities I faced became the building blocks of my success.
Now, eight years later, I view the decision to jump into real estate as more than a career shift; it challenged my resilience and forced me to carve my path. I’m proud to have used each success and setback as a source of strength, guiding me forward on this rewarding journey.
In my free time, I play in a semi-pro volleyball league and coach several teams. The discipline, teamwork and commitment to excellence learned on the volleyball court translate seamlessly into my real estate career.
For me, real estate is not just about transactions; it's about leaving a legacy and ensuring that every client's journey is marked by excellence. I am proud to be part of the Women's Council of REALTORS® and Sell a House Save a Child. These affiliations allow me to channel my efforts into giving back. One organization particularly close to my heart is Homes for Heroes. Over the last three years, my team and I have contributed over $256,000 to support heroes in our community—veterans, police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, nurses, and teachers.
The opportunity to guide people through significant decisions, coupled with the ability to actively give back through community involvement, makes every transaction a fulfilling and purpose-driven endeavor. This passion drives me to continually enhance client experiences. Staying current on market trends, applying the latest technology and always putting people first, I go above and beyond for my clients. Even after the transaction is over, I will continue offering my support and professional resources as your REALTOR® for life.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Donaldson
Real Estate Consultant | Lic# 0225219651
Call/Text 540.479.9200
Office 866.825.7169 Ext. 825