We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kyla Billingsley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Kyla with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
From an early age, I watched my parents hustle humbly.
My dad owned his own business as a machine shop mechanic in Los Angeles. We lived on a ranch outside the city, and his commute was over 80 miles—one way. Mornings started with farm chores, followed by a full workday, and ended with more chores once he got home. Looking back, I don’t think I ever heard him complain. As a kid trying to dodge my own chores, I probably complained enough for the both of us. Not only did he work tirelessly, but he also somehow found time for his family, friends, and hobbies—whether it was obtaining his pilot’s license, road rally racing, cooking, or volunteering at the Nevada State Railroad Museum.
My mom was a stay-at-home mom, which—having been one myself—I can confidently say is one of the hardest jobs on the planet. What made it even more challenging for her was that she was confined to a wheelchair after a car accident at 17 left her paralyzed from the waist down. Doctors advised against having children, but she knew she was meant to be a mother so that didn’t stop her. Her fighting spirit is what kept her alive when doctors told her family to say their goodbyes the morning of her accident. And it’s what pushed her to purchase the ranch, which she cheekily named “Cripple Creek.”
Watching both of my parents pursue their dreams—despite physical and time limitations—showed me that with the right attitude, anything is possible.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
If we could sit down face to face, over your favorite beverage of choice and talk about my personal real estate journey, I no doubt would describe it as my “second ministry.”
Before stepping into this career, I spent over six years as a Children’s Coordinator at a local church—a role I absolutely loved. It was a season filled with purpose, relationships, and more goldfish crackers than I care to admit.
Then, life took a wild turn. My husband got a job offer in New Zealand, and we did what any sane people would do—we packed up and went on an adventure. When we came back to Texas, my kids were older, driving, and suddenly not needing me to cut their sandwiches into fun shapes anymore. It was the perfect time for a career shift, and with my families full support, I dove into real estate.
But here’s the thing I learned—real estate isn’t just a job for me; it’s a calling. I believe in the saying, “We don’t go to church; we ARE the church.” That belief shapes everything I do. Helping people buy and sell homes isn’t just about contracts and closing dates; it’s about building relationships, walking alongside people in big life moments, and sometimes becoming an unofficial therapist in the process.
I’ve prayed over homes, celebrated new chapters, and yes—I’ve even befriended a few client pets along the way (shoutout to Ronald, the dumpster kitty). My goal is to make the home buying or selling process as stress-free and fun as possible. I mean, if we’re spending hours touring houses, we might as well make it fun—think of me as your real estate bestie. By the end of the transaction, I’m going to know your Starbucks order and your favorite drink to ‘cheers’ with, because we are definitely celebrating on the front steps when you get the keys!
At the end of the day, I want my clients to feel confident, cared for, and maybe just a little bit entertained. Because finding the home isn’t just about square footage and countertops—it’s about finding the place where home happens. And I’m honored to be a part of that journey.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three key qualities have been most impactful in my journey:
1. Always Seek Mentorship & Education
Never stop learning. Whether it’s through podcasts, continuing education, or listening to those ahead of you and behind you, growth comes from being teachable. Some of the best lessons come from unexpected places, so keep an open mind and surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you.
2. Hustle Humbly
Work hard, but stay humble. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and no one is “too good” for the grind. Show up, put in the effort, and let your results speak for themselves. And don’t forget—people can smell arrogance a mile away. Confidence is great; humility is contagious.
3. Build Genuine Relationships
Real estate (and life) isn’t just about deals—it’s about people. Whether it’s clients, colleagues, or mentors, invest in relationships beyond business. Be the kind of person people want to work with and refer. Listen more than you talk, show up for others, and add value without expecting anything in return. The best opportunities often come from connections you’ve nurtured over time.
For those just starting out, my advice is simple: stay curious, stay humble, and surround yourself with great people. Keep learning, work hard without the ego, and remember that success is a long game built on trust and consistency.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Absolutely! I’m always looking to connect—whether it’s with clients, fellow realtors, or local businesses.
First and foremost, I’m always honored when someone invites me on their real estate journey. If you’re thinking about making a move (or just want to grab coffee and talk about the market), let’s chat!
Beyond that, I love collaborating with other realtors and local businesses because I believe in community over competition. Whether it’s teaming up on an event, sharing referrals, or just supporting each other’s work, I think we all win when we lift each other up. If you’re a business owner or fellow agent looking to connect, I’d love to brainstorm ways we can work together.
The best way to reach me? Find me on Instagram @kyla.billingsley, send an email @ kylabillingsley@kw.com, or—if you really want to get my attention—show up with tacos and I spicy margarita and I’ll be your best friend forever!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyla.billingsley/
Image Credits
Kaitlin Michele Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
