I’ve always loved business, and while I enjoyed working in finance, I felt a strong pull back to my family’s trade––real estate.

 

Being born into a family that owned a real estate development company, I feel like I was destined to make sales. I’d talk to potential customers on the weekends, just hanging around job sites, while I was growing up. Still, I didn’t become a REALTOR® right away.

 

I moved to New York City for college, and that marked the beginning of a love affair with the city. The food scene is incredible, and the population is so diverse—you meet people from all over the world. After completing my degree in business and marketing at NYU, I stayed in New York City and worked in finance. But deep down, I knew I belonged in the world of sales.

 

I relocated to Miami and got my real estate license in 2005. Becoming a REALTOR® felt like a homecoming and the job fit like a glove—it allowed me to dive into negotiation, marketing, finance, and all aspects of business.

 

Remember I mentioned my family built houses? Around that time, they bought several buildings in Seattle, so I moved there to continue selling real estate. The best part? I met my husband, Kurtis. We met casually at a bar and have been together ever since.

 

As lovely as Seattle was, I kept missing New York City, so Kurtis and I packed our bags and moved to the Big Apple. Living in New York City for 18 years was foundational to who I am today––because only the strong survive in that city. I was always out and about, selling real estate all over Manhattan with the streets as my playground. Living there helped shape me into the savvy businesswoman I am today. It also taught me to appreciate diversity and connect with people from all walks of life.

 

But of course, life had another surprise: Austin, Texas. We moved here to pursue business opportunities and instantly fell in love with the city—its weather, natural beauty, and music scene. Kurtis and I now live in a country club and enjoy that lifestyle with our two dogs, Romeo and Chuy. I also love boxing, weight training, pickleball, live music, and, of course, golf.

 

Since moving to Austin, our bond as a couple has grown. We’ve been trying to get pregnant and have faced challenges, but we’re exploring other options, including IVF and adoption. The process has been emotionally and physically taxing, but it’s made us stronger. I’m confident we’ll have children.

 

In addition to the dream of parenthood, I’m passionate about supporting Austin Pets Alive (a dog shelter) and organizing fundraisers to support women in Israel. We send money directly to Israel to help rebuild homes and schools, create bomb shelters and therapy offices, and plant trees. As a proud Jew, it’s the least I can do. We want to help reconstruct war-affected areas and offer therapeutic support. It’s an incredible organization, and along with my service on the Texan Politics Committee, it keeps me busy.

 

Looking back, moving to Austin was the right choice. I love showing my clients the perks of this city—a place I’ve truly come to call home.

 

When clients work with me, they’re fully taken care of. I begin by asking the right questions to understand their goals and motivations, and I listen with intention. I never rush the process—on the contrary, I believe the right home should truly speak to the client. I’m happy to explore 30 homes if that’s what it takes. We operate as a team, and their victories are my victories. I also love introducing clients to what makes Austin special—its unique charm and vibrant lifestyle.

 

Thanks to my years in fast-paced New York City, I move quickly and efficiently. Time kills deals, so I don’t let any go to waste—I review and prepare paperwork immediately to keep momentum strong. I’m also a skilled negotiator, and in 2018, I was named Austin’s Best Realtor. I pride myself on delivering white-glove service, being available seven days a week. From the first meeting to the final signature, my clients can trust that I’ll be there—responsive, proactive, and committed. I serve them the same way I would serve my family. 

 

Sincerely,

 

Joanne Gamel