We’re proud of the team of agents we’ve assembled here at Nest Realty. We think they’re pretty awesome, and we think you will too. During our “Meet the Agent” series, we sit down with our agents to learn more about them, what makes them tick, and why they’re passionate about the real estate industry. In this installment, we chat with Jo Walling, a REALTOR with Nest Realty Shenandoah Valley.
Nest Realty: Tell us a bit about yourself! What brought you to the area?
Jo Walling: I was born in the Valley and attended James Madison University. After college I lived in Richmond, VA for several years. I moved back in 2009 and have been here ever since!
NR: How did you get into real estate?
JW: I am new to the real estate industry. My career started as a financial consultant for hospitals. I then combined my financial experience with my love for health and wellness and headed to the RMH Wellness Center in Harrisonburg where I was a business office manager, group fitness instructor, and later interim director. After growing our family I began a season of “stay at home mom”, which turned into another business venture! While staying at home and raising our two boys, I started a positive apparel company called Threads For Good. It was a successful business venture that supported and encouraged women to feel beautiful and lean on their faith. This company donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with every sale. After our third child was born and my husband was traveling for work, I stepped back from the business and focused on family. In all, building relationships and giving back is what has made me a successful business woman, mother, and wife. I knew that the real estate industry was a place where strong relationships and service could thrive, so here I am!
NR: What led you to Nest Realty, as opposed to another brokerage?
JW: Innovation and technology combined with a kind and supportive culture made it a no-brainer for me!
NR: What is your favorite part of being an agent?
JW: I have several favorites. Mostly, I love being a part of big moments in my clients lives. Working together through the most memorable and monumental decisions of buying or selling a home is what I enjoy most. I strive to make it a pleasurable process that exceeds their expectations and leaves them feeling happy and satisfied. My second favorite part is learning! As the real estate market is in a constant state of change and evolution, I too am forced to continuously learn, adapt, and grow. I believe that a life well lived is one in which I’m challenged and learning something new every day.
NR: What are five adjectives that describe you?
JW: Joyful, energized, determined, adventurous, and empathetic.
NR: Who would be your dream client?
JW: Jimmy Fallon! I find him to be hilarious and smart. I would laugh at his jokes and ask a million entrepreneurial questions throughout the whole process : )
NR: If you had one piece of advice for a first-time home buyer, what would it be?
JW: My best advice for first time home buyer is to think about necessity. When looking at homes for the first time, one can easily get caught up in wanting spaces or amenities that may be “nice” but not essential for this particular season in your life. The key to first time home buying is to stay within your budget. Find a home that meets your needs, but won’t break the bank. Remember, you’ll want to have a mortgage that allows you to put money aside each month for repairs and upgrades as they come your way, so be careful about buying a home at the ceiling of your budget. It might have more amenities or space, but if it doesn’t allow you comfortably live and keep some extra money in the bank, it may not be the best choice for you. Keep it simple and start dreaming and saving for your future/bigger home!
NR: What is your favorite season in the Valley?
JW: Spring! I relish in the sounds of chirping birds and the excitement of blooming flowers, newly green grass, and planning/preparing my garden.
Jo Walling is a REALTOR Nest Realty Shenandoah Valley. Building trust and meaningful relationships is at the forefront of the role Jo plays in serving this community and making moments matter. She’s your partner in buying, selling, and reinventing spaces. To learn more about Jo, visit her agent page.