Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tiauna Fanning. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Tiauna, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?

I want to build a legacy centered around transforming Kansas City’s real estate landscape, particularly in the realm of housing for the underserved and unhoused. I want to be remembered as someone who was dedicated to creating positive change in the community, leaving behind a tangible impact that extends beyond my lifetime.

My goal is to be recognized as a catalyst for improvement in housing conditions, specifically by addressing the challenges of vacant houses and homelessness. I envision people saying that I was instrumental in bridging the gap between the housing community and those who are most in need. Whether it’s through developing affordable housing initiatives, collaborating with nonprofits, or advocating for supportive policies, I hope to leave a legacy of compassion, innovation, and social responsibility.

In the years to come, I want people to remember me as someone who saw a problem and actively worked toward a solution, leaving behind a city that is more inclusive, equitable, and supportive of its underserved population. My legacy, I hope, will be a testament to the power of individuals to make a positive impact on their communities and inspire others to join in the effort to create meaningful change.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’ve lived in the Kansas City area for almost 40 years, so I can truly call this home. I grew up in Lenexa, graduated from Shawnee Mission West High School, and then pursued a Marketing degree from CMSU (now UCM). I truly believe that things happen for a reason and in the manner, they are meant to occur. This is how I got my start in real estate, even though things don’t always make sense and are often frustrating.

In 2012 I was working for a clinical research company as an administrative supervisor. The industry was in a downturn, and we had gone through multiple layoffs. I remember thinking I should start looking for a job, but I was too busy and never got around to it. On January 24th, at the end of the day, my manager scheduled a meeting for 9 a.m. the next morning. While not uncommon, my instinct told me that my role was being eliminated, so I quietly cleaned out my office before going home.

The next day, my suspicions were confirmed. As a divorced single mom, I was very concerned about what I would do in an economy where unemployment rates were rising. I returned home and was sitting in my kitchen when I received a phone call from real estate agent, Pam Kedish. She’d seen that my home was for sale a few months before and wanted to know if I was still interested in selling. I shared that I’d just lost my job, so it was probably a good time. Pam scheduled a listing appointment for the next day and when we met, she provided a few suggestions that might improve my chances of selling. I signed the agreement and hoped I would be able to sell quickly to eliminate the large debt.

Fortunately, my house did not sell as quickly as I’d hoped at the price I needed. That led to Pam and I touring comparable homes. While driving around Pam stated I didn’t need her, that I was completely capable of selling my own home and others. She suggested I speak with her colleague about the real estate profession. I explained that I was not a salesperson but more corporate. However, I was still unemployed so decided to at least have the conversation. Despite initially seeming insignificant, these conversations changed the course of my life. I terminated my agreement with Pam, obtained my Kansas and Missouri real estate licenses, and worked a dual career with Keller Willams Diamond Partners while also working as a consultant for Accenture, a technology consulting firm. My first transition was manifested while hosting an open house for a friend, and then another sale of a coworker’s townhouse. I was off and running. From there, my friends began to tell their friends and people within my network began asking questions about real estate. My business began to flourish and it has continued to grow through word of mouth.

I have recently moved my license to Kedish Realty, Inc. in Lenexa, KS, working with Adam and Pam Kedish, the couple responsible for my career transformation. I look forward to expanding my reach and tapping into my passion for community service. I truly enjoy getting to know people and helping them solve their housing needs, whether helping them buy their dream home, finding their first home, or building their investment portfolio. I draw on my experiences which helps me understand clients’ emotions. For example, I understand what it means to be a single parent, unemployed, and divorced, I know how big of a decision a home purchase can be, so I try to be a voice of reason. I’m licensed in KS and MO and have sold homes in Johnson, Jackson, Wyandotte, Clay, and Cass, with prices ranging from 7k to 700K. I do not shy away from challenges and passionately advocate for every client.

Each transaction has been a valuable learning experience, shaping my growth over the years. While clients often express gratitude for the assistance I provide and commend the smoothness of the transactions, I recognize that I, too, gain insights from them.

From navigating a complex probate sale involving ex-spouses and unrelated church members to assisting Veterans in understanding their VA benefits, each unique situation has expanded my knowledge. Even instances where clients chose to cancel their contract with me have been instructive. For instance, one client became dissatisfied because the homes I presented didn’t align with his desired location and features. Eventually, he opted to work with another agent.

This experience prompted me to refine my approach. I now ask more probing questions at the onset of transactions, addressing issues directly and promptly to save everyone time and alleviate stress. I’ve also learned to recognize when I may not be the ideal agent for someone and will openly express that, fostering a more transparent and mutually beneficial client-agent relationship.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The greatest source of new clients in my professional journey has undeniably been referrals from my network and existing customers. I feel this approach to business growth is a testament to the trust and satisfaction my clients have experienced in our collaborations. I’ve cultivated positive relationship clients who appreciate the value of my services and often become advocates who willingly recommend my work to their own networks. The power of word-of-mouth within my network has not only been instrumental in expanding my clientele but has also fostered a community of support and loyalty, While I’ve expanded the methods used for lead generation, referrals still account for a large portion of my client base.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

I’ve built my business on relationships, considering them the lifeblood of my business. I use various methods, such as sending monthly emails and utilizing social media, to stay connected with clients. Additionally, I create anniversary packets featuring images from the day they purchased their home, details on their listing, current comparable listings, and a CMA showcasing the appreciation of their property.

I take the extra step by sending birthday cards through mail, along with texts and Facebook posts. I also maintain a curated list of reputable vendors, including plumbers, electricians, and tree trimmers, which I readily share. My commitment goes beyond the transaction – I want my clients to feel they can reach out to me for anything, not just related to their home purchase. As an example, one young client was in jeopardy of losing her home due to job loss. Together, we spoke with her lender about potential options to prevent her home from being foreclosed. I was able to assist her in finding a grant that provided financial assistance to homeowners who were unemployed due to COVID.

Throughout the year, I enjoy checking in with clients to hear how they are enjoying their homes and how their families are settling in. I want them to recognize that I am dedicated to being their lifelong agent.”

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tfanning.kedishrealty.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tinayourhomegirl/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiaunafanning

Image Credits
Professional Headshot by Kamaisha Tyner- Dignified Digital