I heard there are more real estate agents in Denver than there are houses to sell! What makes you different?
It is very easy to become a real estate agent, but it's very difficult to become a successful one. I had a very successful career prior to becoming a real estate agent, and the experience I gained gave me the skills and determination to take a risk, and do something I love. I became an agent because it's what I am passionate about. My success is thanks to my ability to work with people, while delivering great service, educating clients on their choices throughout the transaction, and making everything go smoothly. The other great thing about working with me is that I choose to work with PorchLight Real Estate Group. PorchLight is a boutique, premier brokerage based in Denver. The support I receive from Porchlight in terms of training, oversight, resources, technology, etc. is unmatched in the industry. My clients benefit from all of those things and I am proud to be a part of the PorchLight family.

What led you to your current profession?
I have always had a passion for homes. As a child, my mom would take me through open houses, for fun. We would always talk about the families who had owned the home, the updates they had made, what we could do with it. It's kind of a family obsession. I had a long career in Financial Services, which worked very well for that time in my life. However, my old colleagues will tell you that I could always be caught looking at houses for sale online! Once my kids were mostly off to college, my company was bought out, and I was given the opportunity to try Real Estate. I dove in with two feet, and have not looked back!

What's your superpower?
Being able to explain complicated things in a simple way.

What's your favorite thing about what you do?
I just find it fun. I love looking at houses, and figuring out what the potential is. Can this home serve my clients needs? How can we make changes? Are the changes worth it at this price? When I can show my clients the STORY of a house, and paint the picture of how they would actually live in the space, I know I have found a potential home. Further, transactions can present problems and complications that require a problem solver. I love arming my clients with knowledge and empowering them to make the right decision for themselves.

What advice would you give to yourself when you were a young working mother?
The advice I give young working mothers, is the advice that someone gave me. My female manager once told me that my daughter would look up to me one day. That she would admire and appreciate my ability to find success and support myself and my family and that is meaningful! I would also tell her to give herself a break. You'll never give 100% to both. You will always feel like one is being neglected. This is normal! And that's Okay. You are probably still doing better than most and kids are resilient. Also, see #1!

Are there any myths you'd like to bust about your profession?
It ain't easy!

What advice do you have for those starting a new business?
Failures and setbacks are just that. Move on! Be prepared to commit three years!

What have you learned about leadership that doesn't get taught in schools?
Be real, be honest, and don't waste people's time with projects for the sake of projects. Everything you do should move you closer to your goals.

What's been the best career advice you've ever received?
Learn everything you can in a job (profession, role, etc.), and move on!

Do you have a favorite success quote?
"Perfection is the Enemy of Progress" --Winston Churchill And I have to add, it's quite boring.

Cissy Miller is a Broker Associate with PorchLight Group. She has three grown children and enjoys life in Parker, CO with her husband and two dogs.