Spotlight On: Jeanine Kaminski-Ditzel

Elliman’s Jeanine Kaminski-Ditzel knew real estate was a natural fit due to her background in interior and architectural design. The Texas-based agent has been designing, decorating and marketing homes for years before she became a real estate broker. Elliman Insider sat down to find out everything from what she would say to new agents to where we can find her when she isn’t working. Elliman Insider: When did you know that real estate was your calling? Jeanine Kaminski-Ditzel: Well, it just seemed to be a cohesive fit. With a background in interior and architectural design, I opened a Houston-based retail, design and merchandising firm that focused on modeling and staging new construction properties. After earning both local and national design awards, my passion ignited for all things real estate. By designing, decorating and marketing homes in many of the most prestigious Houston neighborhoods, it was a natural transition to parlay that passion into a thriving career as a broker in Texas. My husband and I offer the perfect trifecta: custom home building, real estate and design. EI: What’s your biggest challenge as an agent? J.KD: “The only thing constant is change.” Real estate is ever-changing, it can be challenging to keep up with the latest trends and technologies, but that is also what makes the industry so exciting. No two days will ever be the same. While Covid inherently forced us to appreciate new ways of communicating with clients, it has also created an updated menu of new technologies that are both exciting and useful for the future of our business. EI: Do you live by a personal mantra or favorite saying? J.KD : I strive to be the best version of me. I am competitive with myself—always trying to be better . EI: Why did you choose Elliman? J.KD: I chose Elliman for everything from its impeccable technology platforms and international networks, to its world-class PR and marketing teams. These pillars of support allow agents to focus on our business and continuously provide us with the connections to develop future business. Douglas Elliman has a culture and energy that are infectious. The collective message is “anything is possible.” There is a huge network that we can call upon when needed. I feel like I am part of an extended global family.   EI: Any advice for new agents? J.KD: Become an expert. Staying up-to-date on industry standards and the market takes time and diligence, but it allows you to have the knowledge and expertise necessary for brokering real estate. You never know when or where you will find new business; always be prepared. EI: Where can we find you when you’re not working? J.KD: In my downtime, you can find me enjoying every moment with my family. My four kids, Ashton, Sloane, Dylan and Blake are a constant source of joy for me. They consistently go out of their way to make me feel like the best mom ever! We also have six dogs and three cats, which means there is never a dull moment around the house. The perfect solace for me is when I can sneak away and enjoy a little quiet time in my garden. EI: You are also a licensed broker in Texas, how does this help your business? J.KD : I am client-driven and passionate about taking care of all my clients’ needs. If one of my clients talks to me about acquiring real estate, or selling one of their properties in another city, I have the confidence, experience and knowledge to help them with each transaction. I have some pretty special clients, so I want to keep them happy! View Jeanine’s Listings: 3996 Inverness Drive | $22,500,000 Storybook River Oaks estate inspired by castles in the English countryside offers a true sanctuary, tucked away in privacy and seclusion. Set on over 2 acres, this romantic residence has superbly proportioned interiors and masonry carved stone arches assembled of limestone and flooring imported from Cotswold. A stunning 800+ bottle wine cellar features triple barrel vault brick ceilings. The pub-style billiard room with full bar and built-in aquariums includes a state-of-the-art theatre with tiered seating for 8. Serene grounds designed with stately English Tudor parterre gardens includes disappearing fountains, saltwater pool and climatized pavilion with custom summer kitchen. Guests enjoy not only a private wing but also a separate guest cottage with lower-level gym and sauna ensuring the utmost luxury. A styled motor-court and 4 car garage accommodates car lifts. This estate is the perfect blend of formal and informal spaces ideal for comfort, recreation and entertaining. 1039 Kirby Drive | $6,985,000 Pristine River Oaks European-style estate designed by architect J. Marshall Porterfield. Residence is privately situated behind beautiful tall hedges and gates on 25,000+ sq. ft. of manicured grounds. Intricately renovated by current owners, the estate offers an unmatched living experience w5 bedrooms and 52 bathrooms. Expansive living spaces with exquisite designer appointments include formal and informal living rooms, elegant formal dining room, opulent studylibrary,2000+bottle wine vault and fitness room. The ultimate restaurant-inspired kitchen with Wolf and Miele stainless steel appliances opens directly to a large loggia with outdoor kitchen and expansive terraces offering numerous eat-in accommodations for casual dining and entertaining. Divine interior spaces look out to the beautiful, manicured flower gardens, sparkling pool, fountain, raised vegetable gardens and covered walkways that complete the outdoor experience creating the perfect respite for relaxation. 4651 Devon Street | $1,599,000 Amazing 45 Bed-5 Bath home in sought after Afton Oaks. Formal LR and DR, huge kitchen and breakfast – KitchenAid appliances, morning great room, butler’s pantry with wine refrigerator and adjacent wine room. Study (or 5th bedroom)+full bath downpowder. Lovely primary suite with dual vanities and closets+3 Bedrooms up-2 ensuite+hall bath. Light and bright, gorgeous gameroom. So many areas to relax or work at home. Loggia wsummer kitchen overlooks the sparkling resort style pool by Star Pools. Enjoy sitting by the firepit while listening to the soothing sounds of the water fountain wall poolside. Nicely maintained inside and out! Impeccable landscapes and hardscapes. So many updates! Oversized 3-car garage, 8 cameras, auto driveway gate. Centrally located inside the loop, walk to River Oaks District and Highland Village. Designated bike paths. Easy access to TX Medical Center & Downtown. Come live among the majestic oaks and near the boulevard in this magnificent neighborhood! Contact Jeanine Kaminski-Ditzel for all your real estate needs.