As a business coach and photographer, I love helping women business owners find new ways to stand out in their markets, communicate their messages, connect with their dream clients, and grow their business.

Through my own work, I frequently meet incredible, inspiring women who are creating strong brands, growing powerhouse businesses, and who deserve recognition for their fantastic work as business owners and entrepreneurs. 

So to help shine the spotlight on some of these incredible women, I’m so excited to introduce my new Women in Business Spotlight series! Each month, I’ll feature a different woman business owner who I’ve had the pleasure of working with. 

This month, we’re kicking off our series with an interview with Julie Etter—a national award-winning producer with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Evolution Properties. 

Women in Business Spotlight

Q: Why did you start your business or choose your profession?

When I was 22, my fiance (now husband) and I were looking for our first home. We were both brand new teachers with little to no money to our name. We didn’t want to rent so we focused on buying a home. I was determined not to be a naive and clueless “participant” in this transaction. In the process of diving in to understand the process for my own benefit, I fell in love. 

At the closing, my broker (who was my uncle) suggested I get my license. So, I got my license to do it “on the side.” Shortly after, my passion-fueled and my business grew. 

Teaching was such a fond memory and time of my life, but within a few years, it became clear that my heart was in real estate.

Q: What do you love most about what you do?

I love being a part of the journey—the life experience and the relationships built along the way. 

I always say I’m not in the business of real estate, but the business of life. I like to be the confidant, the voice of reason, and the voice of appreciated humor during what can be a stressful time. I love to be part of such a milestone in people’s lives, and to help them navigate the “business” part while they navigate through what’s best for their family. 

I particularly love when I get to do this with the moving children. Connecting and keeping them joyful is the most unexpected and rewarding portion! They are our teachers!

Q: What’s something fun that someone might not know about you?

I’m a pretty open book, so I don’t know if it’s a secret. But I want to experience everything at least once. From travel goals, to day to day “ordinary” experiences that I’ve never encountered, to weird food … I want to try! 

My favorite experiences are those that my two boys (ages 3 and 6) and I are all experiencing for the first time together.

Q: Share a favorite book, podcast, or word of wisdom to someone who’s just starting their business. 

When I was at a pivotal point in my business, the book The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks was recommended to me. It’s a simple but motivational read pointing out how we tend to self-sabotage our mindset and situations to stay mostly status quo in most facets of our life. It was eye opening to see how a few small changes could ensure I leaped to further growth!

Want to learn more about Julie or Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Evolution Properties? Looking to buy a property in the Massachusetts area? Connect with Julie at https://www.julieetter.com!