We recently connected with Jessica Haynes and have shared our conversation below.

Jessica, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

To be successful in real estate, it goes beyond just learning the technical aspects—it’s about possessing certain intrinsic qualities. Here’s my take:

Success in real estate isn’t just something you can be taught; it’s a blend of innate qualities and learned skills. It starts with having a creative mindset that allows you to see possibilities where others might not. Pair that with a relentless attitude—never giving up in the face of challenges or setbacks.

Empathy is crucial too. It’s about genuinely caring for your clients and understanding their dreams and aspirations. Every client has a unique story, and being able to put yourself in their shoes helps you tailor your approach to meet their specific needs.

Self-motivation is non-negotiable. In this field, you wake up every day essentially jobless; you have to be your own cheerleader, pushing yourself to take action and achieve results.

Rejection is part of the game. Instead of seeing it as a setback, view it as an opportunity to learn and improve. It’s about accepting feedback, adjusting your strategies, and growing from every experience.

Ultimately, your success in real estate rests largely on your own efforts and choices. It’s about being your biggest advocate, staying resilient, and continually striving to exceed expectations.

Jessica, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My journey to becoming a realtor has been shaped by a unique blend of technical expertise, a passion for helping others, and a deep understanding of the needs of my community. I’ve always excelled in math and science, so it felt natural for me to start my career as an AutoCADD engineer at the Ford Plant right out of high school. I was fascinated by the plant’s design, architecture, and manufacturing systems, and I loved being involved in drafting designs for restructuring.

After a while, I transitioned to working for the government as an administrative assistant in the Personnel Support Detachment, where I assisted military families with relocations, orders, separations, travel arrangements, and retirements. This role gave me invaluable insights into the challenges and expectations of military families, who make up more than 75% of our real estate market in this area.

Alongside these career roles, I also worked in the restaurant industry, promotions, sales, and volunteered at charity events. I’ve always loved helping people and building strong community connections—it’s something that truly makes me feel complete. My passion for social interaction and community support has been a central theme in my life.

However, as time went on, I found that my salary growth was slower than I’d hoped, and the monotony of cubicle life started to set in. That’s when I decided to take a bold leap into real estate, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. Today, I’m proud to say that I’m a military relocation specialist, a top-producing agent within the top 2% of our industry in Virginia, and a Buyer accredited realtor.

What sets me apart from others in the field is my commitment to customizing solutions for my clients. For sellers, I create tailored marketing plans based on their goals, targeting the specific audience needed to achieve success. For buyers, I take the time to understand their unique situations and dreams, crafting personalized plans to help them find their dream home or improve their current living arrangements. I know that these decisions are often the most significant financial choices my clients will make in their lives, and that understanding drives me to take immense pride in my work. For me, it’s not just about closing deals—it’s about forming lasting relationships and making dreams come true.

I’m proud of the journey that led me to where I am today, and I’m deeply committed to making a positive impact on the lives of my clients. My work is a blend of passion, creativity, and responsibility, and I’m dedicated to providing personalized service with integrity. Helping people achieve their dreams is what motivates me every day.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

There was a time in my real estate career when it felt like a black cloud had settled over me, and I just couldn’t shake it off. Six deals, all of which I had worked tirelessly on, fell apart one after another. The reasons were entirely out of my control, but that didn’t make it any easier to handle. It was as if everything I touched crumbled right in front of me. I was devastated.

At that point, I was a single mom with no help—no support system to lean on. I had no idea how I was going to keep the lights on or put food on the table for my son. The thought of throwing in the towel crossed my mind more than once. I remember breaking down in tears in front of my managing broker, Misty Brownell, completely overwhelmed by the situation. I felt like I couldn’t do it anymore. I was at my lowest point.

But something deep inside me knew I couldn’t give up. I leaned heavily on my faith during this time, knowing that I had to find a way to push through. I realized that I needed to take action if I was going to turn things around. So, I created a plan. I picked up extra shifts as a cocktail waitress and bartender, worked any promotional event I could find to not only make ends meet but also to get my face out there.

I even pulled a home equity loan on my condo to catch up on bills, afford my son’s Christmas, and invest in a business coach. That decision changed everything. The coach helped me reframe my thinking and focus on my goals with renewed purpose. I became more intentional with my time, sticking to a routine that kept me on track.

And it worked. My business grew by 400%. That period, as dark and difficult as it was, changed my life. It forced me to become a different person—stronger, more resilient, and more determined than ever before. I’ve only continued to grow since then, and I haven’t looked back. I’m not the same woman I was back then—not even close. That experience shaped me, and I’m grateful for the lessons it taught me.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

Keeping in touch with my clients and fostering brand loyalty is something I take very seriously, and it all starts with genuine connection. I don’t just see my clients as transactions; I see them as people with unique stories and dreams. From the moment we first meet, I make it a point to listen carefully to their needs and goals, and I carry that understanding throughout our relationship.

One of the ways I manage to stay connected is by being consistent and intentional with my communication. Whether it’s a quick check-in text, an email about market updates, or a handwritten note on a special occasion, I always find ways to reach out and let them know I’m thinking about them. It’s not just about business; it’s about letting them know I care.

Social media plays a big role too. I share valuable content, updates, and personal stories that resonate with my clients. It’s a way for them to stay in the loop and feel connected to what’s happening in the market and in my life. I also make sure to engage with their posts, comment on their milestones, and celebrate their successes. It’s all part of building that long-term relationship.

But it’s not just about staying in touch; it’s about adding value. I strive to provide exceptional service that goes beyond what’s expected. Whether it’s offering advice on home maintenance, connecting them with trusted professionals, or simply being there to answer their questions, I want my clients to know that I’m here for them, even after the deal is done.

I also organize client appreciation events and send out thoughtful gifts during the holidays or anniversaries. These gestures may seem small, but they make a big impact. They show my clients that I’m grateful for their trust and that I value the relationship we’ve built.

Ultimately, it’s about creating an experience that makes my clients feel valued and appreciated. When they think of real estate, I want them to think of me—not just because I helped them buy or sell a home, but because I genuinely cared about their needs and made them feel like a priority. That’s how I foster brand loyalty and keep those relationships strong for years to come.

Contact Info:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicahaynesrealestate
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-haynes/