Native Houstonian knows neighborhoods
Houston and the surrounding areas are full of new neighborhoods and subdivisions. However, there are also many hidden pockets of homes, unique areas and small subdivisions, which usually only native or long-term Realtors know about.
“I am a native Houstonian, and am very familiar with various neighborhoods and little pockets that many buyers may not be aware. I love it when I take a client to some of these hidden gems, and they exclaim, ‘Wow, I never knew this was here,’” said Dawn Gervais, real estate agent, Greenwood King Properties.
Gervais’ primary focus is on the established Inner Loop areas, such as the Galleria area, Memorial Villages, River Oaks, West University, Braeswood, Bellaire and Medical Center, which is where many of these small pockets of residences are.
Gervais and her family have lived in the Medical Center neighborhood of Old Braeswood for the past 15 years, so she is well-acquainted with all the areas and surrounding neighborhoods offer.
Before joining the the real estate industry, she was in the medical field.
“I studied at Great Lakes Orthodontics in Buffalo, N.Y. After receiving my certification, I ran a dental lab for a Houston orthodontist. Eventually I ventured off and opened my own orthodontic lab. I have always found real estate interesting, from selling my own home to looking at investment properties with my husband. So, in 2004, I pursued my real estate license. I quickly realized real estate was my passion. After I earned my license, I sold my lab and began working as an agent full time,” Gervais said.
Moreover, she values the skills she brought with her from orthodontics, which include high energy, dependable work ethic, attention to detail and putting her client’s needs above everything else.
Education is also important to Gervais, and she continues taking real estate courses, which she said is essential for her to stay abreast of Texas law and changing contracts.
“In order to represent my clients to the fullest, I attend several courses throughout the year and have pursued many designations. I have earned my Accredited Buyer’s Representative certification; Graduate, Realtor Institute; Certified Negotiations Expert; and Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist credentials,” Gervais said.
In addition, Gervais studied real estate advertising with Stan Barron, who specializes in marketing techniques for unique properties.
“I am also involved in several local Realtor groups, where we get together and discuss new listings and properties that our clients are looking for. As a Realtor, it is very important for me to have a good working relationship with other agents,” Gervais said.
“I love the real estate industry and there is nothing more rewarding than finding the home that my clients have envisioned and dreamed about. I never want my clients to feel rushed and always make sure they know I have time for them and will hang in there until they find the home that is right for them,” Gervais said.