Kimberly started working for a Houston area appraisal company as a secretary.
“Eventually they moved me into the review side of the appraisal process. Later I decided to go to school to become an appraiser. I was licensed in 2005 and started my own company.”
After 2008 Kimberly discovered the management company opportunities and joined Solidifi.
“Now I devote all of my attention to assessing properties in Houston and the surrounding areas where I grew up.”
Being an appraiser is a rewarding occupation for Kimberly.
“I feel like I am contributing to the lending and real estate industries in a positive way through the appraisal process. I enjoy helping make the outcome successful for everyone.”
That includes making the customer feel more comfortable with the inspection process.
“There have been several times when a customer has expressed fear about the appraisal process. I have been able to put their mind at ease by taking the time to explain how it works.”
As for the marketplace, in Houston and its surrounding areas, Kimberly is seeing growth overall.
“There is a lot of new construction, new housing communities and growth of strip centers. In September 2023, Houston home prices were up 1.4% compared to last year and were selling for a median price of $325K.”
Despite this growth, the market has slowed in other respects.
“On average, homes in Houston sold after 30 days on the market compared to 26 days last year,” says Kimberly. “And there were 1,814 homes sold in September this year, down from 2,072 last year.”