An Inspired Chat with Christina Romano of Monmouth County New Jersey

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Christina Romano . Check out our conversation below.

Christina , so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
“I think one of the biggest misconceptions about real estate is the role of the agent. We’ve gotten a bad reputation at times, but like any industry, a few bad apples don’t define the whole profession. A common misunderstanding is around how we’re paid. Commissions are negotiable, and they’re not just a paycheck for unlocking doors. What clients don’t always see is the behind-the-scenes work—market research, pricing strategy, negotiation, time management, and guiding people through what can be a very emotional process.

Another thing people don’t realize is that most agents are independent contractors. That means no salary, no guaranteed paycheck. We can work with someone for months or even years, and if the deal doesn’t close, we don’t get paid. And that “big commission” people see on paper gets cut down quickly by taxes, broker splits, and overhead. Spread across the time invested, most of us are definitely not overpaid.

At the end of the day, a good agent isn’t just a salesperson—they’re a strategist, a problem-solver, and a partner in what’s usually one of the biggest financial decisions of someone’s life.”

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
2025 has been a year of exciting changes for me. After two years with Keller Williams, I joined Ten Hoeve Advisory, and soon after, our team launched a new boutique brokerage in Monmouth County—Prive Haus, founded by Dj and Nicole Ten Hoeve. Prive Haus specializes in delivering a luxury, high-end experience for every client, from the very first call to popping champagne on closing day.

What makes this especially meaningful is that my husband, Sam, has now joined me in the business. With his 20 years of military service and expertise in systems and operations, he’s helping us refine and elevate the way we serve our clients.

My personal goal for 2026 is to help 60 families buy, sell, or invest—and to reach the top 1% of real estate professionals in New Jersey. Prive Haus is the perfect environment to push me toward that goal. As my mentor DJ Ten Hoeve says, ‘We’re not a family—family makes excuses. We’re a team.’ And that mindset is what drives me to keep growing and giving my clients the very best.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Most of my life, I struggled with self-limiting beliefs—feeling ambitious but not quite worthy of going after what I truly wanted, or holding back for fear of sounding arrogant. Turning 40 this year, I’ve finally released that mindset. I no longer apologize for my dreams or ambitions. Coming from nothing and building my life and career from the ground up has taught me I can dream as big as I want. I’m ready to step into my 40s with confidence, clarity, and a mindset that fully embraces my potential.”

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Since childhood, I endured trauma I wouldn’t wish on anyone, and for years I struggled to make sense of it. Over time, I realized that suffering builds stamina, grit, and a determination that success alone can’t teach. Those experiences have made me resilient, and now when challenges arise—at work or in life—I face them with perspective, confidence, and the belief that I can handle whatever comes next.”

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think the real estate industry tells itself two big lies. The first is that every agent is a celebrity—unless you’re on Million Dollar Listing or Selling Sunset, the truth is we’re all doing the same work behind the scenes. Ego doesn’t make you better; results and client service do.

The second lie is that years of experience automatically make someone a better agent. I have immense respect for the ‘OGs’ who have built lasting careers, but different clients have different needs. Sometimes, a newer agent brings fresh ideas, innovative approaches, and a modern take on creating an exceptional client experience—and that doesn’t make them any less capable.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I’ve faced loss at a young age—losing my father, sister, and mother before 38—and it’s given me a perspective most people don’t get until much later in life. It’s taught me how precious time is, and why my husband and I make a point to travel, try new things, and truly enjoy the moment. I live by this: I’d rather look back and regret the things I did than the things I didn’t.

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Motion City Media

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