Today we’d like to introduce you to Emmy Crawford
Hi Emmy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve always had this desire to make a difference in the lives of those around me. It all started when I was teaching at a college in South Vietnam. Every weekend, I’d gather a group of students, and together, we’d set out to visit disadvantaged children and families in small towns. Those moments of connection, of lending a helping hand, lit a fire in me that I couldn’t ignore.
Fast forward to my time pursuing higher education in Australia when I was awarded a full scholarship to get a Master’s degree in Education at The University of Melbourne. Between classes and studying, I found myself drawn to the international student club, pouring my heart and soul into leading it and volunteering within the community in the city of Melbourne.
Then I came to St. Louis. Fresh off the plane with big dreams but no job and nothing to speak of, I dove headfirst into volunteering at the International Institute of St. Louis while waiting for my green card. I helped immigrants with everything from English lessons to job interviews. During this time, I noticed a gap in support for housing within specific communities.
In 2019, with a baby on the way and a hectic schedule split between teaching and interpreting, I boldly decided to pursue a career in real estate. Little did I know, I’d be stepping into the industry right as the pandemic hit, and it was when the real estate market turned into a bidding war for many home buyers.
Those days were a whirlwind of activities, from dawn till dusk. I juggled showings and phone calls with clients and agents and offered deadlines while still finding time to care for my family. It was exhausting at times, but every late-night writing offer over dinner was a testament to my dedication to my client’s dreams.
Because that’s what I see myself as—a dream maker, not a salesperson. Each client I work with isn’t just another transaction; they’re a friend, a member of my extended family. Their dreams of settling down, building a life, and creating a future for their family become my own.
When I look back on that first year in real estate, juggling teaching and late-night paperwork sessions and caring for my baby, I can’t help but smile. Thirteen families found their perfect homes that year with my help, earning me the title of Rookie of the Year in 2021. It’s been four years since I started my career in real estate, and I had the honor to serve multiple families with their real estate needs.
But it’s not the awards or the accolades that fuel me; it’s the referrals, the trust from friends, past and current clients. Because at the end of the day, it’s about more than just closing deals—it’s about making dreams come true, one home at a time, and building a stronger community.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has been nothing short of challenging. When I first arrived in the United States, I was alone, with no family nearby, and barely knew anyone. English was still more a foreign than a second language then. Although I married and welcomed my daughter in 2013, the marriage ended shortly after. Thanks to a few friends, I was able to find temporary housing. Driving was a skill I never learned before I arrived in the US, so I relied on trains and buses to go places and to the International Institute, where I dedicated my time to volunteering.
The next hurdle? Finding a job, learning to drive, and then getting a car. My first actual paid job was a teaching position at Missouri S&T, so for a year, I communed from St. Louis to Rolla 4 days a week. Even on weekends, when I returned to St. Louis, I volunteered for the Institute, community colleges, or within the Vietnamese communities. The pandemic swept in as I ventured into real estate, taking me into a market marked by short deadlines and bidding wars among home buyers. There were days when I’d be out the door by 8 a.m., showing many houses. And once back home, I’d dive into drafting offers while tending to my little one. It was undoubtedly exhausting, but the joy of delivering wins for my clients and watching their dreams come true made every hurdle worth overcoming.
We’ve been impressed with Emmy Crawford, but for folks who might need to be more familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart?
I’m a real estate agent at Coldwell Banker Realty – Gundaker. With over 15 years of experience as an educator and advisor in higher education, I can understand my client’s needs and patiently guide them through the complexities of the real estate market. Transitioning from the classroom to real estate has been a natural evolution, allowing me to blend my teaching prowess with a passion for assisting others. This combination ensures that my clients receive top-notch guidance and support throughout their real estate journey. With my desire to positively impact people’s lives, buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial and emotional decisions one can make. That’s why I make it my mission to alleviate any stress or confusion that may arise during the process, offering personalized attention and support every step of the way.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Empathy and communication are the most important qualities for my success. My ability to understand and empathize enables me to provide personalized guidance and support, making my clients feel heard, valued and reassured throughout their journey. Effective communication encompasses listening to clients’ needs, clearly explaining processes and options, negotiating deals, and maintaining regular updates. This helps build trust and ensures smooth transactions. I create lasting relationships built on trust and respect by genuinely caring about my clients’ well-being and striving to alleviate any stress or confusion they may experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emmycrawford.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmycrawfordstl/?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ecrawfordrealty
