Faces of Shift with Krystal Thompson and Liz Hyatt of Real Home Co.
Shift Workspaces is fortunate to host a diverse business community. Each month, we focus on one of these unique local businesses so that everyone has a chance to learn more about our members. We recently had the chance to speak with Shift members, Liz Hyatt and Krystal Thompson of Real Home Co. to get their inside perspective on the current Denver real estate market and more!
How did you discover and begin your careers in the residential real estate industry?
Krystal – I think my immense attachment to the concept of home fueled the fire. That coupled with my degree in Marketing and being raised by my mother who was in the mortgage world, gave me the perfect balance of experience and passion to pursue real estate.
Liz – I have a background in Communications and worked at a digital marketing firm in Denver for many years learning how to juggle multiple projects while ensuring the clients felt taken care of. After I stepped out of that role and started to dabble in wine sales, Krystal came along and encouraged me to get my real estate license, something I had always considered doing. I ended up getting it a few months later and we have been working together ever since. First at another brokerage and then launching our own in October of 2019.
We started Real Home Co. because we saw a need for a truly unique boutique brokerage experience for our agents and clients. Our philosophy encompasses authentic relationships, quality of life, and proven results.
What is the biggest change you have seen across the residential industry since your career began?
All of it! Haha
Something remarkable is the amount of buyers who have entered the market with a significant amount of cash on hand, whether it is for a down payment, the full purchase price, or appraisal gaps.
Also, the home appreciation rates here in Denver are historically high – we have never seen anything like this (homes appreciated by 6.9% in March alone!).
What is your biggest piece of advice for anyone starting out in the industry?
Krystal – Education, education, education! The real estate exam does not cover all the facets of our job. You will wear many hats so make sure you work with a brokerage that can help you where you need it most, marketing, training, contracts, and negotiations, etc.
Liz – Find a mentor. Find someone who you feel comfortable with and who never makes you feel dumb or annoying for asking questions!
What about your job inspires you?
Krystal – Helping people find their next home for them to make memories and grow wealth.
Liz – Sounds cliché but becoming part of someone’s journey and making lasting friendships with them.
What advice would you give to first-time home buyers?
Krystal – Find a Realtor that you connect with on a personal level and that has time to answer all your questions like a good friend would, but in a professional manner. That coupled with problem-solving skills and negotiation experience will make you actually enjoy the experience all while being protected.
Liz – Remember that your first home is an investment and not necessarily your forever home. Get your foot in the door with your first property. Build equity and then you can move up. Be willing to make some compromises. And have fun throughout the process (we can help with that)!
When you both are not hard at work, what do you like to do for fun?
We run a group called Denver Drinkers that meets up regularly for happy hours at different Denver bars and other fun events.
Krystal – Host parties, decorate spaces, and enjoy cocktails and all of Colorado’s seasons.
Liz – Eat, drink and travel!
Tell us about the benefits you find coming into your office at Shift Workspaces Littleton.
The community at Shift is wonderful! We have made so many friends and connections, which is EVERYTHING in our business. It also provides an incredible & welcoming space for hosting our clients.
If you would like to learn more about Real Home Co., feel free to visit their website.