One moment took me down a new trail, opening my life in unexpected ways as I became rooted in my community.

I set down the paper and felt that moment as if it was captured in time. It was a regular Sunday morning, and I was reading the paper like usual. And yet, one phrase made a lightbulb go off and forever changed my life.

For many years, I was active in the cycling industry. I had a huge passion that began when I first discovered the sport as a teenager. I moved to Kansas to operate a cycling shop in Lawrence and became a part of the budding cycling community here. I loved what I did and the community we built together. Several years later, I became a manufacturers representative for cycling and specialty sporting goods companies across the country. I truly enjoyed my work, but after many years, I grew exhausted from spending most of my time on the road. Deep down, I knew I wanted a change. I wanted an opportunity to be home, to become an active part of my community once again. When I read, “Have you ever thought about a career in Real Estate” in a short ad in the paper one morning, every fiber in my being shouted YES!

I became a licensed REALTOR® in 2001 and quickly gained momentum. I focused on learning all I could while connecting with others, which led to becoming more involved in my community. Finally, I had time to be home. I found opportunities to serve at the library, Audio Reader, and several real estate boards.

I still ride and enjoy being a part of the cycling community here today. Though I was born on the East Coast and moved here as an adult, Lawrence has been my home for decades. I fell in love with the lifestyle here, the people and the community. As one of seven siblings, I come from a large family and am so proud that we are all still close today. Our family still has a standing Zoom cocktail party with everyone on Saturday afternoons. Over the years, my connections in the community here have become an extension of my big family.

I have been very fortunate in my life, and I attribute part of that to a positive outlook. There have been shifts over time, especially in real estate, but I have never focused on any of those. I only focus on my relationships and the positive impact I can have on others. I care for my clients, treating them so well that they turn into raving fans. I am not here to make a living or even to survive; I am here to thrive and help others do the same.

Many years ago, I developed a credo when I first began working for myself as a manufacturer’s representative. There are many guidelines within it that I try to live my life by, and a large part of it is about being prepared and then using that preparation to move forward.

We all have to adapt to change at several points in our lives. I have never shied away from it. Instead, I embrace change as a community and industry leader. I have a passion for education, as you may notice from the alphabet soup of certifications after my name. Since beginning my real estate career, I have been involved in leadership. I enjoy sharing everything I have learned with others because a rising tide raises all ships.

Whenever I am not working, I enjoy sailing, cycling, skiing, going to the movies, and going out to eat with friends. My favorite part of being a REALTOR® is successfully helping my clients when they did not believe they could do it.

As your REALTOR®, I will always start by first taking the time to understand what your motivations are with this move. Most often, real estate transactions are about much more than homes. Once I understand what you hope to accomplish, I will put your interests above all others. With my decades of experience in this industry and local expertise, I will lead you through this process with knowledge and care. My roots in this community run deep, from the many organizations I actively volunteer with, to the relationships I have with local vendors. Whatever you need, I know someone who can help.

Education is extremely important to me, which is why I am always studying this industry. Though I have several industry certifications already, I continue to pursue more as a leader on local and state real estate boards and associations to ensure that I leave a positive impact on this industry and on my clients. Once the transaction is over, I will continue serving your success as your lifelong REALTOR®.

Sincerely,

Thomas Howe
Associate Broker