Sandra Billings is the broker/owner of The Billings Group Real Estate Consultants in NW Houston/Copper Lakes

What was your first job in the realty industry?
Working as a receptionist at a Century 21 office in California. My dad should have been in real estate and he was just not as an agent. He hooked me on being a Realtor and at 18 that is what I did….that was over 24 years ago!

Where did you grow up?
I grew up mostly in California. I am first generation American. My father is from Spain and my mother from Argentina. I was also the first in my family to go and graduate from college.

What is your favorite free-time activity?
Walking, kayaking, hanging out with my hubby, four boys and newly-adopted daughter!

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Not enough!!!

Growing up, what did you want to be?
Growing up, I wanted to be in business, preferably my own business, but I wasn’t sure what.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be?
It would have to be Laura Bush. She was a wonderful first lady. She was a strong moral character with a soft side that makes her approachable. I would love to hear how she dealt with responsbilities and challenges of beign first lady and raising a family in that spotlight.

Where is your favorite place to hang out?
At home!

What do you love most about the industry?
When I work with buyers, I love feeling like I played a part of making someone’s dream come true of owning their home. Whether it be their first home or their move up dream home! It’s an important part of their lives, and I love sharing that with people. When I work with sellers, I love being part of the solution to them either buying a bigger, better home, or downsizing to fit a change in their lives. It’s a personal business, and I enjoy that aspect of it.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I have wonderful word-of-mouth references. That is the best advertising and really speaks for itself. Aside from that, anyone that knows me, knows that I give my client as much attention they need and try to be available to them as much as possible. This is often difficult when managing many clients, family, home etc..

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Time – I never have enough. Balancing the time needed for everyone is the hardest part of my job.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
I meet new clients everywhere – sports events with the kids, school, mom’s groups, clients referrals. As far as I am concerned, clients are everywhere!

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Personally, it has been my family. Professionally, I would say staying in the business over the last 24 years through the good and bad. Client feedback that shows my level of service is also a great accomplishment.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
Most of the movies I have seen lately are kids movies. The last good movie was “The Help.” It made me laugh and cry. Books I read are usually self help, or, of course, there is the “50 Shades” series, which I really don’t want to admit to reading but then again…most women I know have read it.

What is your favorite restaurant?
Anything gourmet. I cook almost every night, and having the luxury of a gourmet dinner every now and then is excellent. I don’t care what kind of food it is. I will try anything!

What is your favorite building in Houston?
I like the older traditional style. Not so found of modern. I like the old market square area. I am much more of a romantic when it comes to older architecture. The history is so much fun to hear about.

What kind of car do you drive?
I used to drive a big ol’ Suburban. Since my husband now has a company car, I drive his old commuter car, a Hyundai Santa Fe. It’s a hand-me-down for my 14-year-old! I would love a Range Rover!

Smartphone, or paper?
Smartphone and paper – why not both?

What is your favorite city after Houston?
San Luis Obispo, California. That is where I went to school! I have a soft spot in my heart for that town!

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Be passionate in all you do!

What is your favorite iPhone/Android app?
My favorite app is really so low tech it’s funny. It’s the flashlight app on my Blackberry and compass app. I can’t tell you how many times it has come in handy!

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter?
I dont’ tweet!

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