We were lucky to catch up with Helen Howard recently and have shared our conversation below.
Helen, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I found my purpose by aligning my career with my core values of trust, communication, and service. My deep connection to the Piedmont Triad, where I have lived for over 20 years, gives me an intimate understanding of our community and its real estate market. This knowledge, combined with my experience as a teacher-leader and my desire to foster lasting relationships naturally led me to excel as a REALTOR®.
Professionally, my purpose is deeply rooted in giving back—whether by mentoring others to build their wealth or by providing ongoing support to clients long after closing. My time in Afghanistan as a soldier (OEF 2012) shaped me in profound ways, fostering personal growth and a deeper understanding of service, resilience, and connection. This resilience led to my membership into the “top 5% of Keller Williams Military Agents.” This honor reflects my dedication to serving those who serve, further highlighting how my purpose is intertwined with service and meaningful relationships.
On a personal note, my purposes as a mother and REALTOR® go together like peanut butter and jelly—different, but perfectly complementary! Both revolve around nurturing, guiding, and celebrating life’s big (and small) milestones. As a mom, I’m the ultimate multitasker—comforter, chauffeur, and cheerleader. As a REALTOR®, I wear similar hats: problem-solver, negotiator, location scout, and dream-come-true specialist. In both worlds, I help people navigate their journey, whether it’s my child learning to ride her bicycle or a client finding their dream home.
I create a safe, loving environment for my daughter to grow and learn; and, as a REALTOR®, I do the same for my clients by finding homes where they can thrive. Trust is my superpower in both roles, whether it’s calming my child or guiding a nervous first-time buyer through the process. Both jobs come with moments worth celebrating. Through Keller Williams Realty, I have built a career worth having, a business worth owning, a life worth living, given my family experiences worth giving, and leaving legacies worth leaving. Just like I beam with pride at my child’s growth, I share in the joy when my clients land their perfect home. I’ve got a knack for turning life’s big steps into memorable wins!
And let’s not forget the long game! My daughter knows she can count on me forever, just like my clients. That “REALTOR® for life” philosophy mirrors my role as Mom for life—always ready with advice, encouragement, or just a listening ear.
In short, whether it’s helping my child or my clients, I’m all about building strong foundations, creating happiness, and making life a brighter. Fun, lots of travel experiences, fulfilling, and full of heart—that’s me!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m a big-hearted adventurer! Whether it’s exploring new corners of the world or giving back to my community, my love for travel and philanthropy go hand in hand. Traveling to over 15 different countries exposed me to diverse cultures, traditions, and ways of life. This has broadened my worldview, making me more empathetic, adaptable, and understanding. Mexico- 5 times, Afghanistan- I’ve been there! Germany, Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Switzerland- just to name a few!
Traveling fuels my soul—I gleam with the excitement of new experiences, vibrant cultures, and the stories that come with every journey, all while checking boxes on my growing bucket list. But, my adventures don’t just take me places; they also inspire my passion for making a difference closer to HOME.
Enter The Family Room in Greensboro—a cause that has captured my heart for many years. Supporting this organization allows me to spread love and care to children placed in foster care. It’s also a chance to connect with my own mother, who was also once a young child in the foster care system. From donating toys to clothes to car seats, each donation is always appreciated and very much needed.
For me, it’s all about balance: chasing sunsets around the globe and creating brighter days for children in foster care right here in The Triad. With every trip and every act of giving, I’m living proof that life is richer when we explore, share, and give back. 🌍❤️
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
My journey as a mom and REALTOR® have likely been shaped by three standout qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that have made the biggest impact:
1. Empathy
As a mom, I’ve mastered the art of listening to my child’s needs, whether spoken or unspoken. This skill directly translates to my role as a REALTOR®, where truly understanding my clients’ desires, concerns, and dreams is critical. My empathy helps me connect with people on a deeper level, making them feel heard, valued, and supported in their decisions.
2. Adaptability
Both the United States Army and parenthood have taught me how to think on my feet and adapt to unexpected challenges. From managing soldiers and Afghan civilians, to managing toddler meltdowns, to solving logistical hurdles at the closing table- all of these skills have undoubtedly helped me navigate the complexities of real estate transactions. I’m the person people turn to for not only calm solutions, but also tough love conversations. Whether it’s negotiating a tricky deal or finding the perfect home under tight deadlines, I’m the one people lean on.
3. Relationships
Both as a mom and a REALTOR®, building trust is my superpower. My daughter relies on me for guidance and stability, just as my clients count on me for honesty, market knowledge, and dependability. My ability to cultivate long-term relationships—whether with family, clients, or new agents—sets me apart and reinforces my reputation as someone people can trust for life.
These three strengths create a ripple effect, allowing me to excel in both roles while staying true to my values of care, connection, and superior service. Whether at home or “boots on the ground,” I’ve turned these qualities into a foundation for amazing success!
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone who values the partnership I offer long after the sale is completed. They want to work with a REALTOR® who is committed to their long-term success, someone they can rely on for advice, future real estate needs, and community connections.
In short, my ideal client is someone who appreciates a personalized, thoughtful approach to real estate and who values building a lasting relationship based on trust and mutual respect.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thetriadhomesearch.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helenhowardrealtorkw/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelenHowardKellerWilliamsRealty
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-howard-kw
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