Meet Trailblazer Holly Wilder

Today we’d like to introduce you to Holly Wilder.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The main theme of my career has been self-employment – first as a photographer and then as a real estate agent/property manager. I’ve always been an artist first, dabbling in pottery, jewelry-making, painting, dance, and music. And frankly, it’s hard to make a living in the arts! So now my artwork is mainly for fun and these past 15 years, it’s been real estate that pays the bills!

My freedom has always been super important to me, so being self-employed has enabled me to work from home and have a great deal of control over my schedule. I was able to be home with my son and it keeps my carbon footprint lighter. And I always like to say, “I love my job, I love my boss, I’m self-employed.” Works for me!

So first it was Visionaries Photography (I still do a little portrait work) and now it’s Visionary Properties. I guess the keyword is Visionary!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Well, sure, there have been bumps along the way. My advice for young women is a little cliche, but truly it is so important to love your work, even if it means earning a little less because you’re going to spend a huge percentage of your waking hours doing it. I learned long ago that money is just another form of energy, so learn to use your time, energy, and financial resources well. Don’t get hung up on being perfect. Find a way to be of service and there money will follow. And be kind, always kind.

We’d love to hear more about Visionary Properties.
I’ve found a little niche in real estate that has really allowed me to be of service in a big way: Working with single or recently-divorced moms helping them create a home for themselves and their children. The process of purchasing a home can be a little intimidating for some, and I am good at providing that extra bit of support. It’s been incredibly satisfying to be of service in this way. Those closings are the most special to me.

The other thing I bring to my real estate work is my arts background, which means CREATIVITY. I’m great at thinking outside the box to create win-win-win-win situations for all parties. I’m way more cooperative than competitive, and maybe that means I miss out on some of the biggest checks, but I want EVERYONE to be happy at the closing table!

Creativity comes into play in many areas of my work, from designing gorgeous signs and business cards to giving hand-made gifts to my clients at closing. Another broker recently commented that my gift to my client was the coolest closing gift she had ever seen. That was fun.

I think one of my strengths is compassion, which many may not consider a big plus in a field like real estate, but it is. Unlike other types of sales, selling a home can be very emotional – maybe it’s where you raised your kids, maybe it’s because you have to move out-of-state for work., maybe there is a divorce involved. Buying can be just as emotional. It’s the largest purchase most people will make in their lifetimes. There are a lot of ups and downs in the purchase process. I’m there to walk my clients through that in the kindest, most compassionate way. And yes, I can play hardball when needed…but it’s rarely needed.

I think a lot about the concept of home. When humans evolved from being hunter-gatherers into home-builders, it was an enormous leap in our evolution. It’s very deeply rooted in our DNA. What’s one of the worst things for a human? To be homeless. I LOVE my home, and I want others to be able to say the same thing.

I’m writing a contract today for a sweet couple. We just found them a place they love. He’s been a tenant at a property I was managing for TEN years. His sweetie moved in a few years ago, and they’ve been saving for this day for a long time. Now this dream is coming true for them. That makes me SO HAPPY.

Which women have inspired you in your life?
Oh, so many! Georgia O’Keeffe, Brené Brown, Pema Chodron, and many close female friends along the way. I am inspired mostly by artists, dancers, philosophers, spiritual teachers, and those off the beaten path. I’ve lived in the Boulder area for over 30 years now, so maybe that’s why I’m so drawn to outside-the-box thinkers… but actually I think I’ve always been this way.

My role models are those who practice compassionate communication, live lightly on the planet, value cooperation over competition, and generally walk their talk.

We’re all in this together.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.visionaryproperties.vpweb.com, www.visionariesphotography.co, and www.etsy.com/shop/HollyWilderStudios
• Phone: 303-517-4180
• Email: hollywilder23@gmail.com

Image Credit:
@Holly Wilder

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