Nan and Company Properties-Christie's International Real Estate
Nancy Almodovar
CEO
Nan and Company Properties-Christie's International Real Estate
Houston, TX
Nancy Almodovar started her luxury real estate business, “Nan and Company Properties Christie's International Real Estate", from her home while attending the University of Houston. By herself, she grew the firm to $4 million dollars in revenue. Six years later, Nan and Company Properties-Christie's International Real Estate has a worldwide network of 138 affiliates across 940 offices in 48 countries, 57 realtors, and 12 full-time employees.
What challenge did you have?
Entering an older, male-dominated industry, the factor that was even more impactful than me being a woman and a Latina, was my age. I had to establish that my company could compete against firms that had been around for decades and directed by older men. I had to show that actions spoke louder than words by focusing on the end goal, staying patient, and muting out the negativity. If I had listened to the negativity, I would not have become the Houston affiliate for Christie's International Real Estate, an invitation-only affiliate network composed of the world's most proven and qualified real estate specialists in the luxury residential sector.
What was the solution?
To be impactful, I needed to stand out. I wanted to make real estate fun by modernizing the buying and selling experience. I leveraged social media and employed an in-house production strategy that included social media, photography, videos and blogs. Nan and Company Properties-Christie's International Real Estate now has the largest social media following for a local real estate firm.
As of 2019, Nan and Company Properties-Christie's International Real Estate has reached $250 million in sales. By tapping into the resources at the SBA, I obtained an SBA loan to break ground on my second location, which will open in 2020. Expanding to the flourishing Heights neighborhood of Houston will allow me to expand my client base. My goal is to open a 3rd location in the future, and to focus more time on my foundation, Nan Cares, which donates thousands of toys to children every year.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
My advice to people wanting to go into business for themselves would be to create a business plan to really map out what they want to do. Business ownership is not easy and you will not be successful overnight. You have to plant the seed, water it, and have the patience to let it grow. The greatest benefit of being a business owner is that I get to create something for others. I give my team the opportunity to give their opinions and influence where the business goes.