What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Working as a counselor at a sleep away summer camp for two summers at the end of high school and beginning of college.
Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, and it was a great place to grow up. Now when I go home it’s to New Orleans, as that’s where my parents live now.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
When I was young, I wanted to run car dealerships, but I later realized I only liked the cars!
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Whenever I’m stressed or feeling like I need a break, I will go for a walk outside or play golf.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
This is a tough question, but I think it would be fun to sit down with Larry David so we can complain about nonsense in our daily lives. In all seriousness, he’s a comedic genius so it would be fun to chat with him.
What is Houston’s best kept secret?
A place that I love to go that’s not too well-known is a small neighborhood dive called Under The Volcano in Southampton.
What do you love most about the industry?
I love that we have the opportunity to make a positive impact in our clients’ lives and help them do something that is important and that makes them happy.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
The job can be extremely challenging, but those challenges help make it so rewarding in the end. The tough thing is that you can’t be in two places at once, so you have to work around those things. Thankfully I have an amazing assistant who helps me out in so many ways!
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Focus on your sphere (people you know), and grow those relationships authentically.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to?
Right now I’m reading “The Fourth Wing.” Two shows that I’m binge watching are “Severance” and “Shrinking.”
What’s your favorite meal in Houston?
There are so many amazing meals here in Houston, but I love getting the Omakase at Uchi.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Houston?
I wouldn’t say it’s necessarily my favorite, but I think the most interesting is the Darth Vader house in West University.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
The first that comes to mind is a house I toured with buyers a few years ago where all the bedrooms had coded keypads on them. It creeped us out so much that we essentially ran out of the house immediately.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
In 2002, I came in seventh place at the City of Jacksonville Beach Sandcastle building contest.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
I love to travel anywhere where I can explore different areas, experience rich culture and history and eat amazing food. One of my all time favorite cities is Florence.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Focus on learning from those with experience.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Shawn the Food Sheep is a great follow for Houston foodies!
What are your social media handles?
Instagram: @c.harrisbenson