Community Highlights: Meet Ashley Ruh

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Ruh.

Hi Ashley, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

I’m happy to be here! My upbringing was humble to say the least, growing up in a blended family alongside one sister and three older brothers. My childhood was quite a whirlwind. I grew up in a fairly unpredictable environment and had to mature faster than most. But amidst that chaos, I held onto a burning desire for something more. Through hard work and determination, I put myself through college at the University of Missouri, earning a bachelor’s degree in architectural studies and interior design.

From there, I delved into the realm of commercial interior design, yet I knew I wanted something greater. Sharing a similar background, my husband and I made a bold choice to depart from our corporate careers, embarking on a journey to Colorado with our trio of 70-pound dogs in tow. We dove headfirst into the real estate world, with me obtaining my real estate license and him pursuing his home inspector education.

After 8 years, we’ve created a wonderful life in Littleton, Colorado, raising two amazing daughters who inspire us every day. They motivate us to aim high and keep pushing forward. Recently, we purchased a little cabin in Bailey, CO, where we plan to unwind and create plenty of childhood memories for our kids.

Throughout my real estate journey, I’ve learned valuable lessons. My success stems from my commitment to protecting my client’s interests and fostering trust through transparent processes. I believe in the power of human connection and prioritize honest communication to benefit my clients. Helping people buy or sell their homes allows me to fulfill my passion for genuine connections.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with diverse clients who share the desire for something more. Guiding them toward their dreams has always started with genuine connections and authenticity, which are really the foundation of my business. I’m excited to continue reaching for the stars alongside my clients.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Navigating the real estate realm has definitely had its share of ups and downs. One big challenge has been getting the experience and know-how to guide folks through such a major purchase. When you’re new in the business, it can feel like a different language and sometimes you have to learn things the hard way. It’s an incredibly tough business, and it takes even tougher skin to succeed.

Running your own show means you’ve got to trust in the process and in yourself and let me tell you, it’s not always easy. Dealing with the feast-or-famine nature of income forces you to get really smart about your finances and how to successfully operate a business. This industry can get pretty lonely. That’s why I’ve come to realize the importance of agents supporting each other in the business. We’re all in this together, learning from each other and having each other’s backs when times get tough.

I’m a competitive person by nature, however, I’ve learned that staying focused on my own journey is key to success in this business. The Colorado market itself has thrown plenty of curveballs for people, like limited inventory and affordability issues. It’s on me to come up with the best strategies to help people navigate these challenges and find their dream homes, which is stressful!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work?

I can sit here and tell you I have strong negotiating skills, local market knowledge, and so forth – and of course, I do – but one thing I want to share with you, the thing that is the most important tool I can provide you in your home sale or purchase is my passion. I didn’t get into the industry to make money. I got into the industry because I fell in love with it. I fell in love with homes, the character each one had, and the awesome people I’m able to help transition from one home to another. I fell in love with hearing people’s stories, really getting to know their needs for their futures, and focusing on ensuring they find a home that actually meets those future goals.

Real estate can be a stressful process, moving out of a home you’ve known for years can be hard, and it can be harder if you don’t have someone to partner with who doesn’t take the time to understand that. My business goes beyond the professionalism I can bring to the table, my years of knowledge about our local market and communities, and past the number of sales I’ve made thus far. Instead, it prioritizes you. How much can YOU afford? What motivates YOUR move? What do you need to make this big transition in your life?

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?

Well, starting in late July, there will be big changes to the industry. Last month, the National Association of Realtors reached a $418 million settlement regarding nationwide litigation over claims from home sellers related to broker commissions. This settlement brings about changes, including prohibiting the sharing of compensation offers on multiple listing services (MLSs) and requiring written agreements between MLS participants and buyers.

So, what does that mean? Well, previously, the listing agent negotiated a percentage of the commission as an incentive for the buyer’s agent, but now, MLSs won’t display this incentivized percentage.

Also, buyers’ agents will be required to have buyer broker agreements, ensuring compensation for their services. The question then becomes, who’s covering the bill? Well, It varies; sellers can still offer buyer agents’ commission, but buyers will be required to bridge the gap if needed.

Amidst these shifts, there’s anticipation about the industry’s future direction. These changes, while they may seem daunting, are actually positive steps towards professionalism in the industry.

The role of real estate agents remains as essential as ever. I continue to offer specialized knowledge, diligent service, and a commitment to our clients’ best interests. Whether it’s navigating local markets, assisting with financing options, or negotiating competitive bids, I’m here to guide you through every step of the process.

As always, I am committed to providing my clients with the highest level of service and support.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.findhomedenver.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findhomedenver/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/findhomedenver
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyruh/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@findhomedenver