You won’t always know exactly where you’re headed, but you have to trust yourself to find the way. Sometimes leaving behind what’s comfortable is the only way to make room for something better.

 

For years, I worked in law, spending a decade in a prosecutor’s office before moving to a large corporate firm. It was stable but the long hours, the relentless workload—it wasn’t just exhausting; it made me feel disconnected from people. I was so burned out that one particularly bad day, after coming home late to find my dog had never been visited by our pet sitter, I realized I didn’t want to do this anymore. So, I quit. Just like that. No backup plan—just the certainty that I needed a change.

 

That’s when I started a dog-walking business. A complete pivot, but one of the best decisions I ever made. It reminded me how much I love working with people, and I enjoyed running a business on my own terms. Within a year, I had over 300 clients, all through word-of-mouth. It showed me that I could run my own business, build trust, and succeed as an entrepreneur. But even with that success, I knew it wasn’t my final landing place.

 

Real estate had been in my periphery for a long time. I knew people in the industry, and a close friend in my neighborhood kept nudging me to try it. I resisted, coming up with countless reasons why I couldn’t. But two years later, after proving to myself I could run my own business, I took the leap. 

 

That first year wasn’t easy, but it was a natural fit. I had a strong network, and once I landed my first couple of clients, it snowballed. I realized that both of my past careers had prepared me for real estate in different ways. My time in law taught me how to stay professional under pressure and handle complicated situations, while running my dog-walking business showed me how to build trust, work independently, and connect with people on a personal level. I want my clients to feel supported as I help them navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives.

 

Because of my career in real estate, I get to prioritize my family. My wife and I became parents later in life, adopting two boys, Jake and Jamison, from the same birth parents. When Jake was born, I was only in my second year, still figuring it all out. I brought him to showings, to the office—everywhere in those early days. Now, at 11, he still talks about wanting to work with me someday, asking if I’ll save a desk for him.

 

The flexibility of real estate has been a blessing, but it has also been one of my greatest teachers, learning to master time management in ways I never expected. Balancing evening showings, school events, and family time takes careful planning. But in learning to juggle it all, I’ve become not just a better REALTOR®, but a better mom—more  present, efficient, and intentional with my time. Real estate taught me how to prioritize, adapt, and find creative solutions instead of seeing obstacles.

 

Looking back, I see it all so clearly. Every step had a purpose. Every detour taught me something I needed to know. And every

 challenge just brought me closer to where I was meant to be.

 

In my free time, I love being outdoors with my kids, whether it’s at the beach, on the river, or just exploring. I also try to stay involved in my community through volunteer work, especially with organizations focused on children, like the Ronald McDonald House and local hospice programs. I love finding ways to include my kids so they can see the impact of helping others.

 

As a real estate professional, it is my goal to make people feel confident and supported through one of the biggest decisions of their lives. I enjoy working with first-time homebuyers, upgraders, downsizers, and sellers. Growing up with a father in the military, I also understand the nuances of military relocations and how to serve people who 

cannot be present for the transaction process. 

 

Communication is key to a smooth transaction. I take the time to understand how each client prefers to stay updated—some want frequent check-ins, while others only need to hear from me when something changes. I stay responsive, answer questions, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. This peace of mind goes a long way when navigating such a big life change.

 

Every transaction is different, but no matter the price point, my commitment is to be accessible, solve problems, and advocate for my client’s best interests. Even after the deal is done, you can always reach out—whether you need local recommendations, market advice, or help with your next move.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Lety Peña