From a fulfilling career in nursing to an unexpected path in real estate, I found new ways to use my skills to help others. Embracing change and finding strength in uncertainty transformed my journey in ways I never imagined.

 

For 22 years, I was a nurse, a career I loved deeply. I earned my master’s degree and enjoyed every position I held within the nursing field. However, in 2014, everything changed. My hospital went through a significant budget crisis, leading to the layoff of over 2,000 employees over three years. I received a severance package—it was a tough pill to swallow. I tried working in smaller doctor’s offices and even got my personal training certification, something I’d always wanted to do. While I enjoyed personal training, I knew there was more out there for me. 

 

One day, while on the road as a home health nurse, I stopped at a coffee shop. There, I ran into an acquaintance who was now a managing broker. She casually mentioned that I should consider real estate, but at the time, I didn’t think much of it. A few weeks later, I bumped into a former nurse colleague who was also selling real estate. She encouraged me to think about it too. Finally, a friend at my local gym, who was a real estate agent, brought it up again. By then, I felt like I was being sent a message.

 

I decided to look into what it would take to become a real estate agent. The $600 class fee seemed like a manageable investment, even if I ended up not liking it. I completed the course, passed the test and began interviewing potential brokers. I wanted to make sure I chose the right one, so I interviewed 43 different agents and brokers. In the end, I chose the managing broker I had met at the coffee shop, returning to her three times before finally signing on.

 

In my first year in real estate, I jumped all in. I gave my notice at the home health agency and started taking real estate classes full-time. I continued personal training and teaching a spin class twice a week, which provided a bit of income. I got my license in August and had my first listing under contract by November. My production quickly grew from a little over a million to 15 million.

 

One of the most surprising things was how much my nursing skills translated to real estate. My experience in the ER and ICU taught me to calm a room during high-emotion situations, which is incredibly useful in real estate transactions. I’m quick at finding solutions and taking a proactive approach to prevent potential problems before they even arise. My goal is always to make the process as stress-free as possible for my clients. Real estate has given me another way to help people through significant moments in their lives.

 

My heart for service has extended to working with the senior community. I volunteer at the Mooresville Senior Center and am now a board member. I also volunteer at a local adult day services center for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s or who just need extra attention during the day, and sponsor senior movie days and lead various senior-related events. My personal training is now focused on seniors, helping them maintain their strength and mobility.

 

I’ve been blessed with a supportive family—my husband, who has always been there for me, and my two children. My son Jacob is 25 and recently married. Jacob works full time for a Heating & Cooling company as well as owning and operating his own HVAC business. My daughter Rachel is 18, just graduated from high school and cosmetology school. She is currently working at a salon as a hairdresser and part time at a nutritional shake shop. She has a long-term goal of eventually opening her own salon. With such a busy career, I prioritize family time, making memories together and staying grounded. 

 

This journey has been full of unexpected turns, but it has allowed me to combine my passion for helping others with my professional goals. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in my community!

 

What I love most about real estate is the diversity and the challenges it brings. Every day is different, and I thrive on helping people with one of the biggest transactions of their lives. I specialize in helping first-time homebuyers as well as working with senior citizens and love doing everything in between. My SRES certification has given me knowledge, skills and tools needed to assist with complex issues such as estates, trusts, and finding safer living environments for my senior clients. These situations require compassion, dedication and an extra level of service that I provide to get the job done. The satisfaction and reward that come from assisting clients through these significant milestones are unparalleled. Most of the time, it doesn't even feel like a job because I am genuinely happy and fulfilled helping people.

 

I do not chase a dollar; instead, I focus on who I can help next. This philosophy ensures that my work remains fulfilling and client centered. Whether I am with a client, friend or family member, I present my authentic self, because I believe that is how the strongest connections are formed. In a process that can be exciting, stressful and filled with a range of other emotions, I aim to be compassionate and understanding while also easing uncertainties and providing clear guidance. I enjoy remaining a part of my clients’ lives long after the transaction is over, as a lifelong resource and professional advocate.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Lorie Blythe

REALTOR® | LIC# RB18001966

Direct Call / Text (317) 501-2298

lorie@thestewarthomegroup.com

LorieTheRealEstateNurse.com