Living abroad taught me that stepping outside your comfort zone leads to growth. I learned how to embrace the unfamiliar, trust my instincts, and thrive—even when the path ahead wasn’t clear. That mindset has guided me through every chapter of life, from world travel to raising a family, and ultimately, building a meaningful career in real estate.

 

A friend once suggested I would make a good real estate agent. She thought my outgoing personality, background in finance and project management would transfer beautifully. I acknowledged it, but loved my job at Landor Associates, a graphic design firm.

 

Financial independence has always been important to me. That drive started early. In sixth grade, my dad suffered a brain aneurysm. Thankfully, he was rushed to a Bay Area hospital while at a golf tournament. He survived—but was in intensive care for six weeks. I wasn’t allowed to see him. My stay-at-home mom, who didn’t drive at the time, was overwhelmed. That experience left a mark. I promised myself I’d never be in a position where I had no control. I wanted to be strong, independent, and capable.

 

In college, a boyfriend who had studied abroad introduced me to the idea of travel—something my own parents had never considered. I was intrigued and soon found myself studying abroad in Vienna. It was life-changing. Up until then, my education had been focused entirely on the U.S. Suddenly, I was immersed in European history, music, and art—Beethoven, Bach, museums, culture. My world expanded.

 

I loved Europe so much that after earning my business degree, I returned—this time to Germany, working at American Express Banking, where I provided financial guidance to U.S. military members. That’s also where I met my husband. We eventually moved back to San Francisco and had two boys, Ryan and Jackson.

 

For over a decade, I balanced motherhood with my role as finance and project manager at a graphic design firm. Our clients included FedEx, BP, Frito Lay, and Coors—big brands, fast pace, and lots of deadlines. But life was about to shift again. In early 2000, after 17 rounds of lay-offs, I was let go.

 

After my father passed, my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and needed to be moved into memory care, which required selling her home. This was around the time I decided to get my real estate license. It was around 2003, and just as I was launching this new chapter, I realized my marriage wasn’t going to last.

 

There was fear, power struggles, trust issues, and deep concern for my kids. They were in a great school, and I didn’t want our divorce to disrupt their lives any more than necessary. I bought the house from my ex, took on the mortgage and my half of the boys’ expenses—on a commission-based income. It was a challenge—but I kept things steady and prevailed.

 

I stayed focused on what mattered: providing for my kids, building a career, and creating security. Real estate became my path to independence. My background in finance, contracts, and project planning gave me an edge. I wasn’t just selling houses—I was helping people through major life transitions, just like I had navigated myself.

 

Today, both my boys are thriving. Ryan is a Navy veteran with an MBA, and Jackson works for Charles Schwab in Austin. As for me, I still love experiencing life—travel, concerts, pickleball, skiing, and time with my Weimaraner, Poppy. I’ve served for over a decade on the Parkmead Community Board and now serve as membership director for our local pickleball club. I believe in connection—whether it's building community or helping clients make one of the biggest moves of their lives.

 

Real estate wasn’t part of my original plan—but it turned out to be the perfect path. It helped me create the life I always wanted: empowered, independent, and deeply connected.

 

What sets me apart as a REALTOR® is strong communication, creative problem-solving, and detailed follow-through.

 

I stay closely connected with my clients from start to finish, making sure they feel informed and supported at every step. My project management background means I handle timelines, inspections, photography, and marketing with precision, so nothing falls through the cracks.

 

Pricing strategy is one of my key strengths. I don’t just suggest a list price—I walk clients through the data and market conditions behind it. I want them to feel fully confident in the choices they make.

 

When touring homes, I observe where clients light up, ask thoughtful questions, and help them consider possibilities they might not have seen. I truly listen. During negotiations, I think outside the box and tailor my strategy to fit each client’s goals—always aiming for smart, win-win outcomes.

 

Whether you’re buying, selling, or planning your next move, I’m here to help you make it happen with confidence, clarity, and care.

 

Sincerely,

 

Kristin Lanham

REALTOR® | DRE# 01401244

Cell 925.899.7123

kristin.lanham@bhghome.com

kristinlanham.com