Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Follmer.
Hi Nicole, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in St. Louis City, where we were required to live because my dad has been a firefighter for 32 years. I attended Lutheran South High School and then proceeded to Meramec Community College, where I studied Court Stenography on a full-ride Volleyball scholarship. During my senior year in High School, I met my current husband from High Ridge and father to my children on Facebook through mutual friends. We have been married for 1 year and together for 13. We have 2 wonderful children who are 8 and 5. How did we get to St. Charles County from the City/High Ridge? My husband is a police officer, and we moved up to St. Charles County about 4 years ago to live out our dream of owning a hobby farm. Lucky for us, this was before the price of land skyrocketed! During this time, I met some of my closest friends who pushed me to better myself and create the life I wanted. My good friend told me about Real Estate 2 years ago, and I was very hesitant. But knowing that I wasn’t fulfilled in the career that I’m currently in, I went all in any way. I got my Real Estate License, and my life has changed dramatically. It hasn’t changed just, but it has helped me change physically, mentally, and personally. This has never felt like a “job” for me, even with the stress it can bring. For me, it’s been about helping and guiding people to the next chapter in their lives. I love being a part of that because, at one time, I was that person moving to the next phase of my life. We were that young couple just starting, those 2 young parents. I needed that guidance when we moved (7 times total), and it’s been a blessing to pass my knowledge on to others as they transition. In contrast, my story could be a more exciting and daring one but it’s mine and I’ve fought to get where I am today. I couldn’t be more proud of myself.
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
We’ve been very blessed along our journey. It hasn’t been easy, but it hasn’t been extremely tough. A few major struggles we had to endure would be when my father was diagnosed with Colon Cancer while I was pregnant with his first grandchild. But by the grace of God, he is in full remission! Another one would be when my daughter had heart surgery to fix a few holes in her heart. She was only 3 1/2 at the time, but the doctors at Cardinal Glennon were amazing, and the surgery went smoothly.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For readers who might need to become more familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m currently a Realtor in St. Charles County and surrounding areas. I have sold/bought Real Estate in other counties, though not limited to St. Charles County. I specialize in land, hobby farms, and residential real estate. I’m known (around my friends/family) being that crazy animal lady. I love taking in animals people can no longer care for or need a home, specifically farm animals. I currently have 4 ducks, 2 geese, a cow, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 2 turkeys, and 7 chickens. Don’t worry. We own over 18 acres of land, so we have lots of room. What sets me apart from other Realtors is that I see this as something other than just a job. Like I mentioned in the first page, I was once that young couple that was newly married and looking for their first home, those new young parents looking for a space to raise their child in, that couple looking to settle down in a good school district, so their kids have a great education. I’ve been there. I am and have been that person. I understand a lot of transitions in life because I’ve moved 7 times in a handful of different counties. I’ve moved with kids, without kids, with animals, you name it. I have the knowledge that many Realtors don’t have regarding the actual feelings that might play a part in the moving aspect. Real estate is something I love doing, and I will do everything I can to help my clients.
We’d love to hear what you think about risk-taking.
I like risk-taking, but I’m a small risk-taker. I need to weigh out the pros/cons of the risk first then I’ll decide. But lately, what’s the point of living if I don’t take risks? It’s the adrenaline high of it that I enjoy. The biggest risk I’ve taken or will be taking in May will be quitting my full-time job and doing real estate full-time. I know this is what my life has been guiding me to this point, but it’s the aspect of losing a salary-based job to a job that can be very uncertain. I’m transitioning to be with my kids more and not be held back by a job that isn’t fulfilling. We also took a risk on renovating a 1940s farmhouse we live in on our 18-acre hobby farm. It was a huge financial risk financially, but it has been one of the most rewarding things because we get to wake up and see the chickens pecking, hear the owls cooing, and watch the sunrise over our pond. What better way to wake up?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blondinrealestate.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.m.follmer/
