It's not just a career; it's a personal lifestyle. Kristie's diverse background and deep love for life, people, and the mountains make her a unique figure in the real estate industry. Born in a single-wide trailer on the Alafia River in Florida, her journey is a testament to her adaptability and resilience, shaping her approach to the industry. Her ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments instills confidence in her clients and colleagues.
Determined to be a life achiever, she joined the Navy, became a fighter jet mechanic, and was the first female stationed with her squadron. If you're familiar with the Navy, she's a certified "Shellback" who served two tours on board the USS Abraham Lincoln. Barely 100 pounds, she would lug a 63-pound toolbox up several flights of stairs to the flight deck to work on ejection seats and HVAC systems on the F/A-18 Hornet. Her travels worldwide on an aircraft carrier continued when she transitioned to civilian life. She married Jack Brennan, a local to the Appalachian mountains, and they traveled for work through Florida, Georgia, Texas, and South Carolina. Kristie was heavily involved in her husband's companies, including operations, meetings, communications, advertising, and real estate.
In 2019, Kristie took her husband's retirement as an opportunity to use her interpersonal skills and business acumen to enter the North Carolina real estate industry. She partnered with Rashaune De La Cruz to create Vignette Realty.
Kristie's approach to real estate is not just about helping people buy or sell homes; it's about making people feel at home. She listens, understands, and connects with her clients, creating an environment where achieving the best possible outcomes is assured. This unique approach, combined with a thorough understanding of the Western North Carolina market, has allowed her to connect with hundreds of buyers and sellers—making new friends along the way. She calls it matchmaking, a unique and intriguing approach to real estate.
Western North Carolina provides an incredible atmosphere for Kristie to accomplish everything she loves—focusing on what's most important in life, being surrounded by nature, having fewer distractions, and being more present. When she's not working, you'll find her on the pickleball court, hiking or cooking for as many people as she can host. Her love for nature and community creates a sense of shared values with her clients and colleagues.
