Recently, Real Estate Agent Magazine sat down with Julie Kuhlmann, Real Estate Broker at Coldwell Banker Tomlinson, to discuss her path from public relations to real estate and the values behind her success in the Inland Northwest.
REAM: What inspired you to pursue a career in real estate after studying Public Relations?
JK: My first ‘big girl’ job was as a marketing assistant for a Seattle home builder, and that’s where I caught the real estate bug. My role involved visiting developments and collaborating with agents to create effective marketing materials, with each day bringing something new and exciting. After experiencing my own personal, less-than-ideal transaction with a Realtor (which is a reason so many of us have taken the plunge), I knew that I could be successful and also love what I would be doing. With a 2-year-old at home, I was inspired by the flexibility and independence a career in real estate could offer—I wanted to be my own boss and set my own schedule.
REAM: Can you share some of your favorite experiences working with clients in the Inland Northwest?
JK: I develop close relationships with about 90% of my clients, which is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. My favorite experiences go beyond helping with home purchases and sales—I get to stay in touch and celebrate life’s ups and downs with them. Many clients have become good friends I spend quality time with. It’s truly fulfilling to still be part of their lives long after the transaction is complete.
REAM: How has your background in Public Relations influenced your approach to real estate?
JK: My background in public relations helps me adapt to various personalities. I naturally adjust my approach to suit each client’s unique style, as well as those I work with on a daily basis. This flexibility has been especially valuable in cross-sales—where others may find interactions challenging, I work to find common ground, making transactions smoother and more collaborative.
REAM: What do you enjoy most about living in the Inland Northwest compared to your hometown of Richmond Beach?
JK: I loved growing up in NW Seattle but living in the Inland Northwest offers a unique quality of life. When I got married, we decided to settle somewhere that provided more space and affordability, especially for starting a family in a home rather than a condo or apartment. Seattle had become too congested, and we weren’t using many of the city amenities because they were so hard to access. I recently visited for a conference and enjoyed revisiting the homes where I grew up and my old stomping grounds, but I’m grateful for the more relaxed pace and accessibility of this area.
REAM: How do your values of integrity and honesty shape your relationships with clients?
JK: Integrity and honesty are the foundation of every relationship. I believe that trust is earned through transparency, so I’m always upfront and clear with my clients, providing them with all the information they need to make confident decisions. And I tell it like it is, no sugar-coating here. Real estate can be a complex process. It is my duty to guide clients truthfully and respectfully, always prioritizing their best interests. This approach not only leads to successful transactions but also builds lasting relationships, as clients know they can rely on me to be straightforward, supportive, and committed to their goals.
REAM: What are some challenges you’ve faced in your real estate career, and how did you overcome them?
JK: In real estate, there are certainly challenges that have turned my hair gray! I’ve even been berated over things completely out of my control, but I know it’s often just a reaction to the stress and emotions my clients are feeling. In those moments, I take the beating and encourage them to get some rest. By the next morning we are again moving forward together.
REAM: How do you balance your personal interests with your professional responsibilities?
JK: Balancing my personal life with professional responsibilities is all about prioritization and smart time management. My goal is always to make each client feel like they are my only one, but sometimes I need to set boundaries to protect time for family, hobbies, and self-care. Whether it’s enjoying wine with friends, crafting or spending summers at the lake, these personal moments recharge me and ultimately make me a better agent. By planning ahead and keeping a flexible but organized schedule, I’m able to stay fully present in both my personal life and my work.
REAM: What motivated you to support the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery, and how do you get involved with the organization?
JK: My oldest child is an artist who, at just six years old (now 22), decided to sell prints of their artwork in order to earn some money. We discussed donating some of the proceeds to a charity that benefits children, which led us to the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery. Things really took off when we were invited onto a morning TV show to promote the initiative, and by the time we returned home, we had raised over $1,000! I was busy mailing out orders and, through this, we connected with a now close friend—a former officer involved in the Vanessa Behan case—who introduced us to the organization personally with a tour and check presentation. Since then, Vanessa Behan has become our primary charitable organization, where we’re committed not only to financial support but to giving our time as well.
REAM: How do you approach negotiations when working on behalf of your clients?
JK: When negotiating for my clients, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. I make it a priority to understand their needs and use market data to set realistic expectations. I’m firm but fair, aiming for solutions that work for everyone. By staying calm and reasonable, I work to get the best possible outcome while keeping things positive with everyone involved.
REAM: What advice would you give to first-time homebuyers looking to navigate the market?
JK: For first-time homebuyers, my advice is to start by talking with a lender to get clear on what’s achievable so we can focus on homes that truly fit your goals, while also remembering they will need to pay their utility bills, replace an appliance if it breaks and put food in the cabinets. Keep in mind, buying a home can be an emotional rollercoaster—you might feel heartbroken if your offer isn’t accepted, but I always remind clients it’s only because a better home is waiting for them. Staying open-minded about neighborhoods and features is also key; sometimes the perfect fit appears in unexpected places.
REAM: Tell us a bit about yourself outside the office.
JK: Outside the office, I love spending time with family and friends, often over a good glass of wine. I’m a creative at heart, so I enjoy working on crafts, whether it’s a closing gift for a homebuyer or something special for the house. Our lake cabin is my go-to escape for relaxation—there’s nothing like a water view, and even the chilly plunges as fall sets in! I also enjoy weekend road trips to visit family and because I’m a summer girl always up for traveling somewhere warm.
