In the fashion world, Emily Schlabs had mastered the art of styling—in a space where creativity and confidence came naturally. But something inside her was calling for more. Emily decided to step away from the familiar and leap into the unknown. “I walked away from the world I loved to pursue something that felt equally thrilling but full of uncertainties—it was a risk, but there’s no looking back now,” she shares jokingly. That fearless move wasn’t just about a career change but about growth, passion, and embracing a new chapter with open arms.

 

Thriving in her role as a sales associate, Emily eventually stepped into a manager and buyer position at Hemline Lubbock, where she shined curating stylish looks for clients.  But then, COVID hit. Almost overnight, the world paused. Events were canceled, travel plans vanished, and fashion shifted to one word: loungewear. “I hated it,” Emily admits. The creative spark that once lit up her days had dimmed.

 

All the while, REALTORS® she had styled over the years kept nudging her—“You’d be amazing in real estate,” they said. At first, she brushed off their remarks. But as the world changed, so did her perspective. With some encouragement (and a stimulus check), Emily made a bold move: She signed up for real estate classes, leaned on her REALTOR® clients for guidance, and started soaking up everything she could. “Thanks to the support of my now-husband and parents, I took the leap, quit my job, and became a full-time REALTOR® in 2020,” she shares. 

 

To support her new career, Emily knew she needed more than just a brokerage—she needed a place where people would believe in her potential, align with her values, and guide her growth every step of the way. She chose Keller Williams because its faith-based foundation of putting God first, followed by family and business, immediately gave her peace and comfort. The office environment was welcoming, with an incredible camaraderie and a strong sense of community. Tara Newton and the leadership team genuinely care about each agent’s success; that support made all the difference for Emily. She also loved the office dynamic and the agents. “Now, those agents are some of my closest friends, and we truly do life together,” Emily smiles.

 

For Emily, real estate is a calling. What fuels her most is helping first-time buyers, especially those who never thought homeownership was within reach. “There’s nothing like seeing someone realize their dream of owning a home,” she emphasizes. “Being a part of that moment is incredibly rewarding.”

But Emily’s passion doesn’t stop there. She’s also a champion for the Lubbock community, proudly highlighting everything the city has to offer—from its vibrant culture to its welcoming neighborhoods. Emily is a trusted guide through one of life’s biggest transitions, and her business relationships often grow into lasting friendships. “Many of my clients become like family,” she says. “Knowing they trust me for future needs and refer me to others makes this work truly fulfilling.” 

Additionally, Emily has been a proud partner with the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization for the past five years, directly impacting the lives of local youth. She also leads the Keller Williams volunteer group for St. Benedict’s; her deep commitment to Lubbock goes beyond real estate—she’s dedicated to making the city a better place.

When Emily isn’t helping her clients in real estate, she’s soaking up time with the people who matter most—her family and friends. She and her husband, Darren, met at Texas Tech, and they at almost every Red Raider sporting event, cheering on their alma mater. They share their lives at home with their fur baby, Zara. They love weekend getaways and hanging out with their nieces and nephews. “We’re also fortunate to have an amazing community of friends and family in Lubbock—whether grabbing drinks or Sunday family dinners, we love doing life with them,” Emily shares. 

 

Looking back on her journey into real estate, Emily wouldn’t change a thing. “I truly believe everything happens for a reason,” she says. She’s passionate about becoming a leader in the industry and helping others succeed just as she did, especially as a solo agent. She also envisions building a family of her own. She is determined to strike that meaningful balance between career and personal life—proving that having both is possible with heart, hustle, and purpose.

 

Emily Schlabs 

Keller Williams

210-241-2824