I loved being a stay-at-home mom, but as my kids grew up, I felt called to find a new way to make a difference.
A parent understands the bittersweet feeling of watching their kids become teenagers. You’re so proud, but you also know a chapter of your life is ending. They don’t need you the same way they used to. So, after being a stay-at-home mom for many years, I began to wonder: What else can I do?
I was no stranger to work––in fact, I began working at the age of 13 and paid for college myself, assisting a condo manager. Eventually, I began managing apartments—handling payments, submitting maintenance requests, and dealing with tenants. I loved it—especially meeting the residents and helping them out.
When the company relocated me to Idaho, I continued managing apartments there. That’s where I met Kevin. He was a resident, and we happened to meet at the gym. We sparked a conversation, and after a friendship grew, we started dating. Within a year, we were married and welcoming our children, Katie and Kris. It all happened so fast and we just celebrated 25 years of marriage. My wedding advice? Don’t sweat the small stuff. Marriage is challenging enough without adding drama over silly things like toilet seats and toothpaste. We were fortunate to live off a single household income, and I was delighted to be a stay-at-home mom. I believe it makes a difference when a parent is around. For many years, I focused on raising my kids, being there for them at sports and school events, while volunteering in my free time. Eventually, though, the time came when my kids didn’t really need me around as much. It was time to find something else, and I got my real estate license. It was a challenge—studying, learning a new industry, understanding all the regulations—but my kids were old enough to take care of themselves, so I went for it. Real estate turned out to be a great fit. In fact, I found so much success doing it that I was able to open a sandwich shop on the side. There wasn’t anything like it in town, and Kevin and I were excited to try something new. Running that business turned out to be one of the most challenging and eye-opening experiences of my life. We hired local teenagers to help us run the place. They cooked, worked the register, and I supervised—while also juggling my real estate work. Over time, I realized these kids were struggling. Some were lonely, others were homeless, and a few even admitted they were having thoughts of ending their lives. It broke my heart to see the lack of parental involvement. These teens were dealing with so much and had no guidance.
That sandwich shop became more than just a business. For some of them, it became a reason to keep going—a place where they felt seen and safe. I felt like a parent to them, training them and cheering them on. I believe that’s why we were meant to open that shop. Though we have now sold the sandwich shop, the experience opened my eyes to what teens go through. Both of our kids were very involved in sports, and my husband and I were volunteer coaches. Sports are so important for kids—it builds confidence and gives them purpose. No child should miss out just because of money. Now I donate $100 from every real estate transaction to help children who can’t afford sports gear. These days, I love watching football and baseball, and spend time with my family. I feel blessed to have not only raised my own kids, but to have also been a parent figure to others in the community. Helping people is at the heart of everything I do.
My job is to help people get into their dream home—and I take that seriously. Homeownership is a powerful investment, and I’m here to guide clients every step of the way with personalized, one-on-one service. When you hire me, you work with me directly—no handoffs to other agents. I’m upfront about fees, with no hidden costs or last-minute surprises.
What sets me apart is how proactive and focused I am. I handle tasks the same day instead of pushing them off. I believe in being honest from the start—if my client’s expectations are unrealistic, I’ll explain why, and offer solutions. I also make sure clients stay within a budget they can truly afford. I don’t want anyone to lose their home because of financial strain. I genuinely care and give advice with their best interest in mind.
About 90% of my business comes from referrals—because clients know I help them build a secure future. Many become friends and meet my wonderful family. Once they work with me, they’re stuck with me—in the best way possible.
Sincerely,
Jeanette Kirkpatrick
Salesperson
Direct Call/ Text 208.870.3252
Jeanette.kirkpatrick@compass.com
