What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Elementary school teacher.
Where did you grow up?
Houston, TX.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
Growing up, I thought I would be involved in my family’s retail clothing business but decided to pursue an education degree while at the University of Texas.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I got to the gym to lift weights, take a class and/or do some sort of cardio. When done, I feel a lot less stressed.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
I am not very star-struck, but there are many people I admire for making a difference in others’ lives.
Although not famous, I would have loved to have more time with my grandfather, Walter Pye, Sr. He owned and operated our family clothing stores. To this day, I am told he always treated employees and customers with genuine warmth and respect. He was greatly admired and trusted by all.
In the short time I had with him, my grandfather taught me the benefits of a supportive work environment, in which consumers, management and employees communicate effectively to bring about winning solutions and lasting satisfaction. I am thankful I had the opportunity to learn customer service skills from him. I wish he could witness the impact he made on my life.
What is Houston’s best kept secret?
Houston has amazing restaurants, museums, sporting and entertainment events, shopping and more. There is something for everyone.
What do you love most about the industry?
I love being able to help educate buyers and sellers to make good decisions throughout the real estate process.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
There are a couple difficult aspects. One is trying to remove emotion from my clients’ decisions. I try to remind them that this is a business transaction and they need to try to eliminate as much emotion as possible.
Another is dispelling the belief that flat fee listings and rebated commissions equate to less service. That can be true for some brokerages, but Leslie Lerner Properties always gives 1,000% to their clients.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Referrals, testimonials and networking are great avenues to generate new clients. If you do a good job, clients are always willing to refer you to others.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to?
I have been watching “Ted Lasso.” I wish there were more people like Ted Lasso. His outlook on life is incredible. If [his energy] was contagious, we would have an amazing world.
What’s your favorite meal in Houston?
I love Federal Grill. The owner reminds me of my grandfather. He is so friendly and treats his employees and customers with respect and gratitude. Federal Grill also has the best warm chocolate chip cookie in Houston. I love dessert!
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Houston?
I still think the Astrodome has so much potential. I have many great memories of running around that building from the time I was a child until it closed.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
When you work with so many personalities, you deal with a lot of weirdness… You never know what to expect next.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
You can dress me up, or dress me down, and I will still have a good time. In the city or the country, I always feel at home.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
It is a toss up. I would never turn down a beach, but I love Colorado. I am in happy place when I can be outdoors.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Have a good mentor and get all the training you can.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Right now, I am following a lot of designers, home builders and accounts that have beautiful products for homes. There are so many wonderful people to follow!