Jennifer Barrett is a Realtor Associate with Keller Williams Memorial working in the Memorial area of Houston.
What was your first job in the realty industry? ERA Property Manager in while in college at The University of Texas at Austin. Second job was as a mortgage loan officer and then finally a Realtor and then Real Estate Broker (as soon as I had enough experience that I was allowed to take the test). I’ve pretty much done it all.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I read magazines, books, watch HGTV and various documentaries, news programs and reality TV
Where did you grow up? the Memorial area of Houston – graduated Memorial High School in 1986
Growing up, what did you want to be? I thought it would be interesting to be associated with politics. I did not want to run for office myself, but perhaps be a lobbyist or some sort of ancillary role.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Bill Gates would be a fascinating guy to have a one on one with because he has had such an evolution personally. He changed our world with his innovation, but the way he developed his company and had such foresight. What interest me the most about him and his wife is the impact they are making on the world with their philanthropy. He has encouraged others to follow in their path and together these billionaires are amazing.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? Home is where my heart is. I’m definitely a family person. When I have free time, I chose to spend it with my teenage children, my parents, my siblings and my pets.
What do you love most about the industry? The real estate industry is constantly changing and evolving. There is always something to learn or teach fellow agents. I have always been a lifelong learner, so this industry suits me perfectly.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I strive to provide superior service to my clients. They know when they are working with me, that I will be there for them – not an assistant or subordinate. If you hire me to represent you, you get me!
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Since I am so hands on with my clients, I limit the number of clients that I work with at any given time.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? The majority of my clients are referrals from other clients. I take that as the biggest compliment I can receive. I also meet new clients through my children’s activities and open houses.
What has been you greatest accomplishment? Wow, that’s hard to say. I guess I should say being a repeated Top Producer at my company, but I was most proud that I was able to buy a car for my daughter recently. As a single parent, you worry about being able to pay for college or transportation for your children. This year, I was able to provide transportation for my children, which will ultimately be so liberating for our whole family. I would say that was a huge source of pride for me.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I tend to like serious books and low brow, silly movies. A couple of movies that come to mind that made me laugh are Breakfast Club and Pitch Perfect. On my nightstand now is Candace Cameron’s Balancing It All: My Story of Juggling and The Bible. I recently lost a friend to cancer, and it was a reminder of what is truly important.
What is your favorite restaurant? My favorite restaurant is probably the Khun Kay Café. We have been going there about 19 years – back when it was called The Golden Room. They have the most delicious Thai food ever and a casual atmosphere.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Houston? I am old school and love history, so I would have to go with Church Christ Cathedral. What a beautiful place! It’s fascinating to think that Houston was the capital of the Republic of Texas and not even a part of the United States when it was built. Gothic Revival style of architecture is rare in Houston.
What kind of car do you drive? I drive a white Lexus GX450 with a license plate that lets everyone know I love my son’s favorite sport and my alma mater.
Smartphone or paper? Both, I believe in having a back up
What is your favorite city after Houston? I really enjoyed London on a recent visit with my daughter. The history and architecture there is absolutely amazing. I enjoyed that immensely, but at the same time, it made me have an even greater appreciation of Houston and our citizens. One thing that was a surprise, they do not serve iced tea. Really? A hot summer day and we are supposed to sip hot tea? By the time we left, they were making iced tea at our favorite spots and even had an appreciation of it.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Always do your fiduciary duty and take care of your client.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? HAR.com of course!
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? Anyone who makes me laugh! Life is short, it is important to remember to laugh.
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