Patricia Reed began her professional life in the world of art and antiques before becoming a real estate agent in 2001. Elliman Insider spoke with the Houston-based agent about her decision to join Douglas Elliman, her advice for new agents and her passion for riding.
When did you know that real estate was your calling?
I have always been interested in the art of selling, so when I graduated from college, my first job was working for an auction house. Every day brought me to another beautiful home where I would catalog everything they had collected throughout their lives. In 2001, I went through a major life shift, becoming a single mother with three children, I wanted a career with the flexibility to be able to support my children, make my own schedule and strengthen my desire to be an entrepreneur.
What’s your biggest challenge as an agent?
It is a gift and a curse, but I am a people pleaser, so in the rare instance where I am unable find the perfect house or buyer for a listing, it hits me hard.
Do you live by a personal mantra or favorite saying?
Never give up!
Why did you choose Elliman?
I began my career with a Houston-based boutique brokerage. Douglas Elliman was going to merge with the firm when it arrived in Texas, which was very exciting, so I decided to move my business to Elliman. I welcomed the rich real estate history and international reach Douglas Elliman could provide to my Houston clients. Even though Douglas Elliman is one of the largest real estate brokerages in the country, it still maintains a personalized, boutique type of customer service. The positive Douglas Elliman culture has been refreshing and has reenergized my love for real estate.
“I welcomed the rich real estate history and international reach Douglas Elliman could provide to my Houston clients.”
How has Elliman upped your real estate game?
With Douglas Elliman’s worldwide reach through its partnership with Knight Frank, I am able to provide extensive national and international exposure to my listings which has made my first year at Douglas Elliman, even with the Covid lockdowns, very successful!
Any advice for new agents?
Visit as many local listings as possible to be knowledgeable about inventory on the market. Also, visit other Douglas Elliman agent listings to learn from them and strengthen relationships within our firm. The Elliman Family can be a powerful tool to problem solve and grow your business.
Where can we find you when you’re not working?
When I have downtime, you can find me right outside of Houston riding and enjoying time with my beautiful horses. I have had the privilege of rescuing two ponies, Frankie and Valentino, who bring me so much joy. The barn is my happy place! Some weekends, you can find me competing in Southwest Circuit all over the country with Lone Star Saddlebreds. I also love to travel and spend a lot of time in Mexico City, with my boyfriend Alejandro, which is a great feeder market for Houston real estate.
What initially drew you to the world of competing in equestrian competitions?
I rode American Saddlebreds as a child and re-ignited my passion for horses a few years ago as a form of exercise and de-compression. Competing just comes naturally to me and gives me a great outlet to recharge and reset!
Can you tell us about a memorable experience you had in the show ring?
This past spring, I competed in a horsemanship class with 27 other riders, while riding my own horse and then switching with another rider’s horse. I won the competition! It was such an honor, not just for me, but also for my horse. To love doing something and then to be surprised with that kind of unexpected recognition was very touching.
How does being a part of the competitive equestrian lifestyle help you in your real estate career?
My passion for riding horses has taught me perseverance and patience as well as providing a wonderful outlet whenever work life gets too hectic—riding clears your head and helps relieve stress while sharpening skills that can be used in selling real estate such as understanding how important patience is when dealing with clients’ needs.
View Patricia’s latest listings.
