Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1433453
N avigating one of the hottest real estate markets in history can be overwhelming and confusing. Enter real estate agent Jackie Converse, known around town for the expert, thoughtful way she guides each client and takes the guesswork out of finding their dream home. Years in real estate: I spent six years in the title industry before starting my family, and I've been selling residential real estate for nearly eight years. My family owned a custom homebuilding business, so I've truly grown up in the industry. Area of expertise: Highland Park, University Park, and surrounding areas, from Greenway Parks, Bluffview, and Preston Hollow to the M Streets and Lakewood. Hottest up-and-coming Dallas neighborhood: It's hard to just name one, but the Park Cities is on fire for its schools and walkability to shops and restaurants. The private- school corridor is also a coveted area for its proximity to amazing schools, good price point, and spacious yards. Best advice for selling your home: Listen to your realtor when they advise to declutter, depersonalize, paint, and update as needed. A home that hits the market with its best foot forward has better chance of bringing top dollar and likely multiple offers. Predictions for where the market is headed: The Dallas market is only getting stronger. This year alone, our local market increased nearly 30 percent, and we're seeing predictions for another 16 percent increase by the end of 2022. Neighborhoods you call home: Highland Park and University Park. The way I use Highland Park Village as both my extended closet and kitchen is a little frightening! Most-used room in your house: Family room. You can usually find my boys doing homework or playing video games while I'm working, or we're watching movies together with a fire going in the cooler months. Community involvement and philanthropic affiliations: I'm a sustainer of both The Junior League of Dallas and the Armstrong Bradfield Preschool Association. I'm a member of Highland Park Presbyterian Church, where I also volunteer when my schedule permits. What you love most about living in Dallas: While Dallas is home to so many incredibly unique neighborhoods, I adore living in Highland Park, within walking distance to shops, restaurants and schools, yet so close to downtown and the airports. Dallas strikes the perfect balance of a big city with neighborhoods that lend a small-town feel. Dallas restaurant you can't live without: Mi Cocina at Highland Park Village, let's be real. Key to finding people their perfect home: I listen. Then, I get to work and utilize a variety of sources, from MLS to my incredible network of agents, friends, and neighbors. Finding buyers in this market: Finding buyers is the easy part! People want to move and make a change, but finding a home for sale is difficult in a market with low inventory. My advice is to have everything in order - cash on hand or loan in place— that way, we're ready to move quickly when the right home comes along. The key to concierge service: Communication. Quick response time and openness between buyers and realtor is key to a successful home-buying journey. What people are looking for in homes today: Everyone wants a great outdoor space, with or without a pool. Several of my clients have walked straight from the front door to the backyard, not stopping to see the house first! A functional work-from-home space is also high on buyers' lists. Holiday entertaining tip: My house manager! She's my organizer, housekeeper, and event-prep guru all in one. She keeps my home cozy and elegant, which allows me to focus on serving my friends and family when I entertain. Contact Jackie Converse at 214-673- 7852 or jackie.converse@alliebeth.com. JACKIE CONVERSE GETTING TO KNOW PAPERCITY ADVERTORIAL Jackie Converse with Allie Beth Allman & Associates 77