Jessica Holmes, broker/owner of East Texas Preferred Properties in Kilgore, was named to the 2019 class of REALTOR® Magazine’s 30 Under 30, which recognizes rising stars in the real estate industry.
Holmes spoke with Texas REALTOR® about the honor.

Texas REALTOR®: What do you think set you apart?

Jessica Holmes: I always work incredibly hard in every facet of my business to provide for my family. As the broker and owner of my company—where my husband also works—my livelihood depends on my performance and ability to effectively market and sell property. I think my tenacity coupled with my experience at such a young age definitely helped me stand out among my fellow professionals.

What does the honor mean for you and your business?

This honor is paramount for me and my business. With our market saturated with other qualified REALTORS®, it’s always great to be able to market myself and our company in a different capacity. Being recognized at the national level for my efforts is still surreal. Living in the small town I was born and raised in, state or national recognition is huge. My heart is still exploding just thinking about the future benefits this has for my family and company!

What’s the best advice you’ve received that’s
helped you as a young REALTOR®?

Get plugged in. From the very first year I was licensed, I was involved in local REALTOR® association committees and events and community events. It helped tremendously to network with other REALTORS® as well as let my community know what I was doing. Also, find a mentor. I’m thankful that I’ve been blessed with several experienced REALTORS® who I look up to and am able to bounce ideas or questions off. I think I’ve been so successful because I have those people in my life. If you can find a REALTOR® who is willing to take you under her wing and impart her knowledge, be thankful and take it.

Look for more about the 30 Under 30 class of 2019 in the May/June issue of REALTOR® Magazine.