Meet Natalie Hemmens | Real Estate Agent

We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Hemmens and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalie, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Without the circle of individuals that I have intentionally chosen to be around me, I would not be where I am today. If you think you can do it alone, think again! Building a business does mostly start with you, but without the support, resources, inspiration and guidance of others, the business is likely not going to thrive. Behind any business owner, mega star or brand are the families, community, co-workers and those that came before us to pave the way. Lots of businesses are only recognizing the face of the brand-the leader for all the hard work and dedication they put towards the business. While this is true, any business owner will tell you that they did not do it alone. So, if you are looking to build a business, remember to think about the people you WANT to surround yourself with because chances are they are going to be part of your journey. We need them. And they need us. Always give credit where it is due and be grateful to those who have generously lifted you up to become who you are.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Helping people build wealth through the power of real estate is a passion that is also my business! Over the years, I have found that when I am doing what I love, my life becomes fun, productive and fulfilling.

My journey has not been easy. I grew up in a small town in Maine with very limited resources. For most of my childhood, we did not own a working vehicle. Or a phone. Or a TV. We lived way back in the woods and we had to walk a mile to catch the school bus everyday- each way. Sometimes in the snow, rain, hail- you name it! My Dad says it build character. It definitely built strength. I would dream of the days when I would have a career, live in the city, have my own car!
After I graduated business school from the University of Maine, I sold my car and used the money to move to Manhattan with my boyfriend. After 2 years of working in retail and as a receptionist at major fashion brands, I joined my siblings who had moved to Los Angeles. Together, we helped and supported each other as roommates, sharing cars and being each others first friends in the big city.
As the years passed, we all started our own successful businesses and are now thriving in this beautiful state. Even though most would say we have “made it” there is so much more to do. To give back. Pave the way for others. Create opportunities that we didn’t have. The journey is not over!
In my journey, I have recognized real estate has always been one of the ways in which we can create generational wealth. Not just by owning a home and building equity but by investing in housing and leveraging your investments to make more investments. Real estate can help you retire. Real estate can put your kids through college. Real estate can fund your business or your dream life. It doesn’t get more excited than that!
The lessons I have learned.. and are still learning are many. Be grateful for what you already have and where you are in life. Have a good attitude! Be helpful to those around you, learn from your mistakes and your successes. Don’t give up on your dream and surround yourself with people who love and support you.
Most of all, the time and energy it takes to create and build a business is excessive but when you enjoy what you do, it is all worth it!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When my friends come to town, I always plan our events and outings around the food. The restaurants in Orange County and Los Angeles are delicious! It would be like a culinary adventure! In OC, we would definitely go to Fashion Island to do some shopping, eat at Red O and rent a Duffy Boat in Newport Beach to take a self guided tour of the harbor- probably with some wine and cheese! We could then have some appetizers on the roof top of the Marriott at Hive and Honey then go dancing at Time Nightclub. When we hit Los Angeles, we would for sure see a football game at Sofi stadium or a Lakers game at the staples center. We would eat at Gracias Madre or BOA Steakhouse, rent bikes on the Santa Monica pier and have a seafood lunch at Gladstones off the PCH. We would shop at the Beverly Center and go Hiking up Runyon Canyon. We could go to a rooftop pool party at the W Hotel Hollywood, eat the amazing sushi at Yamashiro in Hollywood and catch a show at the Magic Castle (invite only-of course I have the hook up!)

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I agree 100% that others have greatly contributed to my success. In my life, my biggest mentor was my 5th grade teacher who continued to be in my life until her recent passing. She selflessly guided me through the large career decisions I have made and encouraged me to go after my goals with no fear. At this time, my brokerage, Keller Williams Irvine, has an endless support system for agents to build their businesses and engage in the local community. Most of all, my husband, siblings and parents have provided endless support so I could follow my dreams and help make others dreams come true as well.

Instagram: @nataliehemmens

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Ta1cuqySW6FWCHcwsGsCA