As someone who exudes authenticity and is a known matchmaker, Chrissy Keys considers herself an “architect” of people and relationships. “I take pride in getting to know people and pairing them with they want and need,” says Chrissy, a Keller Williams agent on the Jersey Shore who entered the business in 2014. “Sometimes I have a better idea than they do about what they want and need!”

That’s because, given her background in psychology and her longtime work in helping professions, Chrissy knows listening is the most important aspect of communication. Her relational skills to help match sellers with buyers and homes with their intended owners. “I love helping get people to and from where they need to be, whether they have to buy or sell.”

With studies in the field of psychology and psychiatric rehabilitation, Chrissy recalls that when she entered real estate in 2014-2015, people wondered what she was thinking. But she was at a turning point, in need of a career change that would allow her the flexibility to take care of her own well-being while also helping others. She quickly realized how transferrable her listening and relational skills were to real estate. After joining a tremendously supportive brokerage, Chrissy quickly began ranking as a top agent among the 9,000+ agents in the Monmouth/Ocean MLS.

Currently an independent agent, she enjoys the support of a coach, a transaction coordinator, a mentor and an administrator. She is, however, considering the idea of building a team one day, in order to offer her unique brand of service beyond the Jersey Shore Points-Atlantic Highlands and the LBI/Barnegat area. After all, within three years of entering real estate, Chrissy was already drawing two-thirds of her business from referrals. “I’m real with my clients; I’m very much myself,” she says. “I can talk and build relationships with anyone!” Many of her clients become friends during their work together and remain friends long after.

The aura that surrounds Chrissy is one of energy, a fun-loving attitude, and even a “comedic side show,” she says with a laugh. People feel comfortable with her; from Chrissy, the gift of undivided attention comes naturally. “Listening skills are something you either have or you don’t,” says Chrissy. The same goes for the combined desire to stay in touch with people.

She knows that technology can either help or hinder relationships, so she uses both technology and a personal touch when connecting with others, including phone calls, texts, voicemails, coffee dates, mailers, cards and post cards, and fun client appreciation events. “We just did one where we went to the Silverball Museum in Asbury Park and everyone had a blast,” she says.

Furthermore, Chrissy offers equitable service. “Whether it’s a $150 thousand listing or $10 million, I use staging, professional photography, marketing materials, social media campaigns, broadcast blasts open houses and more,” she says. “People appreciate my enthusiasm, my knowledge of the real estate market, my determination and my work ethic.” Chrissy’s success is underscored by a remarkable level of humility; she truly focuses on the needs of others, including other agents.

“Success breeds success,” she says, explaining that she loves to inspire her peers. She is actively involved in the Keller Williams Shore Properties Agent Leadership Council and a member. She also gives personal time to fundraising efforts of charities like People’s Pantry and Hope Sheds a Light, and The Believe Project, which helps sick children and tier families during the holidays.

In addition, Chrissy cherishes quality time with friends and loved ones, plus singing, dancing, living in the moment, and spontaneous travel. “You truly are the company you keep,” she says, reflecting on her path, adding that she hopes that her unplanned journey into real estate success inspires others to surround themselves with people who encourage them. “Don’t listen to people who doubt you,” she adds. “I surround myself with people I can grow with. This is (the real) me – I’m Chrissy Keys – it’s a name that embodies my resilience and my matchmaking, certainly in real estate among many other ways.”

To learn more about Chrissy Keys, visit chrissykeys.com or go to Facebook, email chrissykeys@kw.com or call 732-485-9393