We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kelly Carlson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kelly below.
Kelly, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the decision of whether to donate a percentage of proceeds to an organization or cause – we’d love to hear the backstory of how you thought through this.
I am a member of the Associate’s Board for Sarah’s Circle, a Chicago nonprofit with a mission of serving women who are experiencing homelessness or in need of a safe space. Additionally, every closing benefits a local charity – serving our neighbors without addresses. On behalf of my clients, I donate a portion of my commission to a local non-profit that serves the unhoused community in Chicago. I selected 12 organizations so the charity rotates monthly (got this idea from my wedding florist, Flowers for Dreams!). I chose to focus on the local cause of homelessness because everyone deserves the safety and comfort of home.
Kelly, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My love for architecture and homes dates back to high school when I spent two weeks at Discover Architecture Camp at the University of Illinois and took every CAD class available to me at the time. Although I didn’t pursue architecture in college, I attended the University of Illinois and received my civil engineering degree in 2016. Upon graduating, I worked for a Big Four firm and lived the consulting lifestyle for a few years (thank you KPMG for the airline miles). I loved client services but the millennial in me was ready for something new. In 2018, I joined a boutique consulting firm where I was a project manager responsible for design and construction projects for large not-for-profit institutions such as the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (two really amazing organizations). The most rewarding part of those experiences was the relationships that developed and grew over time with my clients. But I was a few years in and still felt like something was missing. In 2020, during a year full of change, I brought up the crazy idea to my now husband of pursuing my real estate license. Always my #1 supporter and best friend, he was on board with the idea from the start. I started studying for the real estate exam, got my license, and joined Engel & Völkers after meeting the license partner in Chicago, Jennifer Ames (who has since become an incredible mentor to me). Absolutely terrified, I quit my consulting job and got started in real estate full-time. The rest is history. I love getting to leverage my background to advise clients during some of life’s biggest decisions. There is so much more that goes into the home buying and selling process than the transaction itself. It starts with a meaningful connection between my clients and me, whether it’s over coffee, a cocktail, or a walk through Lincoln Park. As their advisor my #1 goal is to advocate for my clients while making the process as stress-free as possible…maybe even fun!
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
When I got started in real estate, I knew I wanted to grow my business organically. Coming from a corporate/consulting background, I believe my value proposition is rooted in client service. By working hard to advocate for my clients (always putting them first, whether that means a deal or not), I have started to work with repeat and referral clients. The power of the referral is real: I’ve been connected to friends of friends of past clients. I also host a free monthly webinar for first-time home buyers which has introduced me to several buyers. I love that it connects me with potential clients in a way that adds value to the consumer.
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
In terms of my marketing budget, I invest most of it in my clients. Instead of spending money on personal advertising, I would rather put those dollars toward hosting an event at a local fitness studio for past and current clients. It’s been a great way for me to keep in touch and cultivate meaningful connections. Other ways I like to keep in touch: checking in after they’ve closed, meeting up for coffee to catch up, sending them birthday cards, etc.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kellycarlsonhomes.com
- Instagram: @kellycarlsonhomes
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-wohlever/