An Inspired Chat with Julie Neira of Summerville

Julie Neira shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Julie , 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 the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are completely centered around my relationship with God. I start with a cup of coffee in hand and my Bible open, spending that quiet time truly getting to know Him. Right now, I’m reading through the book of Romans—one chapter each morning—letting the Word guide my thoughts and my heart before the busyness of the day begins.

For years, I fell into the trap of “I’ll do it tomorrow,” and I learned the hard way that tomorrow often never comes. Now, I make this time a non-negotiable. When my faith is strong, my mind is steady, and I have the strength and stamina to handle everything on my plate—even when I’m tired. There is never a downside to learning more about the character of Jesus, but it does take an intentional choice each morning. And for me, that choice has changed everything in my personal and business life as well.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Julie Neira, a REALTOR® with a passion for helping Veterans build generational wealth by achieving the dream of homeownership through the VA loan program. My brand, Julie Helps Veterans, reflects more than just my business—it’s my mission. As Co-Founder of Warriors Haven, a nonprofit serving Veterans in crisis, and Public Relations Officer for the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association®, I’m deeply involved in supporting those who’ve served our country.

What makes my work unique is the way my faith fuels everything I do. I believe God placed me here to serve—whether that’s guiding a Veteran through buying their first home, helping a family in need, or raising awareness for causes that matter to the military community. Right now, we are tirelessly working on expanding Warriors Haven’s initiatives, including a community to help homeless Veterans transition back into stability.

Most recently, I launched Hearts for Heroes, an annual initiative created in collaboration with a 24-year Retired US Navy Chief and former contractor. Each year, we select one disabled Veteran who is ready to sell their home but physically and financially unable to prepare it for the market. From complimentary painting to minor repairs, we step in with heart and hammer—helping our hero get market ready with dignity and honor. Inspired by a local Veteran client’s story, Hearts for Heroes is about more than home prep—it’s about hope.

For me, real estate isn’t just about selling houses—it’s about changing lives.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has most shaped how I see myself today is my relationship with God. For years, I tried to carry life’s challenges on my own, but it wasn’t until I truly surrendered to Him and got down on my knees in submission that I understood who I was and why I’m here. My faith has shown me that my purpose is to serve—whether that’s helping a Veteran buy their first home, standing beside a family in crisis, or leading initiatives through Warriors Haven.

This relationship has taught me that strength isn’t found in doing it all alone, but in trusting the One who called me to be the hands and feet.. It’s given me the courage to take on missions that feel bigger than me, because I know I’m not doing them alone. When I see a Veteran find hope again or a family step into their new home, I see God’s hand at work—and I’m reminded why I do what I do.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
For much of my life, my biggest fear was failure. It kept me in the food and beverage industry for over 20 years, afraid to step into the unknown unless I was pushed. Looking back, I see that fear came from my own insecurities. Today, my greatest strength is my faith in God and the peace of knowing I am exactly where He wants me in this season of my life.

I’ve learned that success isn’t just measured in dollars—it’s measured in the lives you touch, the love you share, and the impact you leave behind. For me, it’s simple: we are here to love God and love one another, and if I’m doing that, I know I’m right where I need to be and I wouldn’t want it any other way!

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes—the public version of me is the real me. What you see is what you get. I don’t believe in putting on a polished façade that hides my heart or my faith. Whether I’m meeting with a client, serving through Warriors Haven, or spending time with friends and family, I strive to be authentic, approachable, and grounded in who God created me to be. My hope is that people see the same Julie in public as they would if we were sitting together on my front porch catching up with a cup of coffee.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say I lived a life of purpose and love—that I showed up for others with kindness, faith, and unwavering dedication. That I used the gifts God gave me to serve Veterans and my community, making a real difference in their lives. More than anything, I want to be remembered as someone who loved deeply, led with integrity, and inspired others to live boldly for what matters most-faith and love.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Stephanie Selby Photography
Capture Your Happily Ever After Photography
Studio 7 Imagery

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