A bit of background
I was born in Texas and grew up in San Antonio. I lived in Hawaii for 7 years, visiting all the islands as well as New Zealand and Australia. Then I moved to England, where I had the opportunity to travel all over Great Britain and Europe. I worked for 14 years with a global engineering firm, in jobs ranging from project administration to graphic design to software and presentations training. My organizational skills, efficiency, and professionalism come in handy in my real estate career. In addition, I managed rental property in Hawaii and invested in real estate in England; thus, I help you make sure your dream home is also a good investment.

After 6 years in England, I came back to my home town, San Antonio. From Hawaii, I got a tan and a BA in International Studies. From England (after losing my tan), I brought my husband, Martin!

Living and traveling overseas has given me a chance to learn about many cultures. During my years away, San Antonio changed a lot, growing as well as diversifying. Despite its healthy growth and economy, the cost of living here is low compared to similar-sized cities. In addition, it is even more of a cultural melting pot than it used to be.

How I can help you
One thing that hasn't changed, though, is the desire for people everywhere to own their own homes. As an Accredited Buyers Representative, I offer home buyers my enthusiasm, professionalism, and commitment to finding you a home that will meet your needs and desires (and your investment plan).

For sellers, my goal is to sell your property at the best price and terms possible, while keeping you in the loop during the whole process. I'll give you my honest recommendations on what will help sell your home quickly. 

My background in marketing, websites, and graphic design gives me the power to expose your property to potential buyers around the world through the internet. I work hard to make sure that buyers will find out about your home for sale, that it's as appealing as possible, and that they can quickly get more information about it.

Experience counts

My role is that of a real estate counselor, rather than a salesperson. I will provide you with the information and recommendations you need to make an informed decision.
I am also a Certified Residential Specialist, a designation awarded to just 4% of Realtors. Members of CRS must have completed a minimum number of transactions and take several more in-depth courses.

Obtaining a real estate broker license in Texas requires at least two years of active experience as a licensed real estate agent. In addition to completing 270 classroom hours of core real estate courses, another 630 classroom hours of specific courses are required. Then applicants take the broker's exam, which is, naturally, more difficult than the salesperson's exam.

The average real estate agent sells three to ten houses a year. In 2006, I sold 41 properties, most of them single-family rental properties and homes. In 2007, I sold 27 properties, including new homes, lots, and multi-family properties. Okay, it was a slow year!

What to expect from me
I don't like the feeling of being "sold to," and I'm sure you don't either. I don't do high-pressure sales. I will give you as much information as I can, and I'll also give you my opinions and advice. You may not even have to ask for them!

If you're looking for a home, I will make appointments to show you the ones that meet your requirements and that you're interested in. If you will be purchasing a home or investment property sight-unseen, I will preview all the properties you're interested in and take extra photos if you desire. I will stay in the price range that you tell me you want to be in, even if your lender qualifies you for more.

If you want me to sell your home, I'll do the research on what similar homes are selling for, and then I will go and look at other homes for sale in your neighborhood so I can tell you exactly what the competition is like. I'll tell you what you can do to improve your chances of getting a higher sales price or selling more quickly.

I am a member of the Transnational Referral Network, and I can also assist you in finding a property in other countries. I will help you research the country's real estate market and interview potential brokers. Once we select one to work for you, I'll continue to monitor the transaction from start to finish.

When I became a Realtor, I made a pledge to treat everyone I deal with honestly and fairly. I take this promise seriously, and I will work hard for you as a professional adviser you can count on.

And since buying or selling a home can be stressful, I will try my best to make it easier for you, and maybe even fun! Please contact me if I can be of service. I look forward to meeting you.

(And yes, I got my tan back!)

Check out my blog:

Laurie has just recently come to work with Silverbridge Realty. She has been representing both buyers and sellers in real estate for 11 years and was the top-producing agent in her previous real estate company. Laurie is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist, is experienced with residential and commercial properties, and also speaks fluent Spanish. She also loves working with real estate investors.

As soon as she has time to work on her bio and her website, we will provide more details about this dynamic and creative Realtor. Meanwhile, just e-mail Laurie or call her to find out how she can help you!