Name: Laura Stevens
Title: Operating Principal
Company: Keller Williams Realty - Pioneer Valley offices
Location: Longmeadow, Agawam and Northampton MA
Place of birth: Springfield MA
Family: Recently widowed from my husband of 35 years, 2 adult children, both married, 4 grandchildren
College: Although I attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, I did not complete college.
First job unrelated to your current field: Construction salesperson
First job in current field: Real estate salesperson
What your firm does now and its plans for the future? We are a brokerage firm that specializes in training and education for our associates. We plan on expanding into Northeast Connecticut with new associates and are always on the lookout for growth opportunities.
Hobbies: Reading, gardening and decorating
Favorite novel: I read so many books that I rarely remember them. Any of the classics would be favorites. Currently I am waiting for my niece's first novel to be released... The Red Queen. It is her debut novel and I can't wait to read it.
Favorite film: "Pretty Woman"
Keys to success: Do what you love and the money will follow. Give more than what is expected. Be honest and sincere and always come from a place of contribution.
Person(s) you most admire (outside of family): My first real estate mentor, Tofie George, and the president of Keller Williams International, Mark Willis.
If you had to choose a different profession, what would it be? I cannot imagine NOT being able to do this, but if I had to change professions, I would probably be a builder.