I never set out to sell homes—I set out to teach kids and coach sports. Real estate wasn't even on my radar until a single phone call changed everything.

I became a REALTOR® almost by accident, thanks to a family friend who saw something in me that I hadn’t yet recognized in myself. At the time, I was working at the YMCA, coaching high school sports, and taking classes to earn my teaching certificate. One day, that family friend called and asked if I would manage their small real estate office. The position offered flexibility and a family atmosphere, making it a great fit while I finished school.

To be honest, I never imagined that managing a small brokerage would turn into a long career in real estate. I thought I would become a full-time teacher or coach—a dream I’d had since high school. I was drawn to the structure, teamwork, and sense of community that sports provided since I was a teenager.

 After high school, I started college with my sister, but I quickly realized I needed the discipline and routine that athletics brought to my life. I transferred to Missouri Southern State University, where I played soccer and studied education. Leaving my sister and the familiarity of home was one of the first major decisions I made on my own.

After college, I spent four years at the YMCA, serving in several roles, including daycare director, youth and adult sports director, and fitness center manager. I enjoyed the variety, but I still felt like something was missing. I returned to school to complete my teaching certificate, and that’s when the call came asking if I would manage the real estate office.

 I started as an office manager and learned the business from the ground up. I saw firsthand what it took to keep transactions moving—the paperwork, the negotiations, and the countless details happening behind the scenes. I enjoyed helping people through major life changes, though becoming an agent wasn’t yet part of the plan. Then I met my husband, Shawn, on a blind date I almost didn’t go on! And just like that, my priorities shifted: I realized I was doing too much. 

I loved working with clients and recognized the growing demand for in-home training.  I was teaching P.E. as a substitute, running a personal training business, managing the brokerage, and planning a wedding. Something had to change.

When I was offered a full-time teaching position, I turned it down. I gradually reduced my one-on-one training sessions, and when the brokerage owner asked me to become her buyer’s agent, the decision felt natural. Real estate had become more than a side job—it had become a future.

The biggest turning point came in 2020 when I decided to step out on my own. I left the security of being a buyer’s agent on a top-performing team and started building a business of my own. It was intimidating because every decision—and every mistake—was mine. I hired my first administrator, then added a salaried team member and eventually a buyer’s agent. Along the way, I learned how to lead a business, adapt when things  didn’t go as planned, and recognize my flaws. Real estate has challenged me in ways I never expected, and that growth has been deeply rewarding.

Outside of work, I recharge by staying active. I enjoy working out, playing sports, and spending time with my children: Danica, 12, and Janson, 9. I volunteer at my church and at my children’s school, and I value being involved in my community.

Looking back, my path into real estate wasn’t something I carefully planned. Instead, it unfolded through a series of decisions and opportunities that led me in directions I never expected. My career has given me the chance to coach, educate, and cheer on my clients with each milestone they reach in homeownership. Each experience taught me something new, and I’m thankful for the life and career those choices have given me.

 I genuinely care about my clients’ well-being and investments. It’s never just about the commission for me; I want to make sure every decision is truly right for them, not just a quick sale. I build real relationships with my clients, treating them as more than just numbers, and I’ve developed strong connections with other agents over the years to help create smooth, positive transactions. I’m not afraid to admit when I’m human or make mistakes, and I think that relatability helps people feel comfortable with me. 

I’m always willing to go the extra mile—sometimes literally, like painting a house myself to get it ready for a listing. I’m hands-on, energetic, and realistic; I want my clients to feel empowered to make their own decisions without any pressure. I also try to anticipate potential hiccups and prepare my clients for what’s ahead, so they’re never caught off guard. Ultimately, I want the process to feel approachable, transparent, and even a little bit fun

 

With gratitude,

  

Kim Idel