In a business like this, with so many steps, requirements, forms and deadlines, it can be easy for clients to get caught up in the day-to-day stresses of the transaction. 

That’s where you come in … With the experience, expertise and sense of calm to help them moving forward.

That’s an area where Melisa McGuire excels, as well.

As a real estate agent with Jim Garland Real Estate, Melisa helps her clients keep their eyes on the prize. 

“I try not to take myself too seriously and try to keep the business as light as possible and have them look at things in a different way,” Melisa says. 

“It tends to be very emotional. I like to help them focus on what they want and not what they have to do.”

There’s also a part of Melisa that enjoys the chance to solve problems and find a way ahead.

“I enjoy the unpredictability and you can have a really bad day and the next day can completely be different … not knowing who is going to reach out to you from the past,” Melisa says. 

“I’m continuously hearing from people and the connections I’ve made.”

Melisa earned her real estate license in 2013. Prior to that, she worked in property management. 

“It felt like the next big step. Being interested in real estate inside of that platform gave me the drive to get into real estate,” she says. 

“I had always been in sales and loved working with people.”

At first, Melisa faced a tough transition into the business. 

“My husband provided me with great support. He pushed me to really dive in and go full-time … to go all-in,” Melisa remembers. 

“Getting the business was a little daunting … not knowing what you don’t know. There are a lot of moving parts. Once you get the business, you need to know what to do.”

Melisa kept learning, staying focused and earning more business while she helped her clients achieve their goals. Along the way, she earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2013.

“I was part of a big team for six years of my career. I was doing more than 100 deals a year as a buyer’s agent and then I evolved into wanting different things. I wanted to get less transactional and more hands-on with people,” Melisa says. “I believe in the importance of reputation in this industry. A huge part of my success, especially given the challenging market conditions over the years, has been a large part due to relationships I have built with other real estate agents in the area. I believe we build each other up and work together to overcome obstacles not just within the transaction but in the ever-changing market.”

Today, Melisa averages between 30 and 40 transactions a year. In the process, she delivers a dedicated, personalized level of service.

Away from work, Melisa treasures time with her husband, Ian, and their two daughters — 16-year-old daughter, Mia; and 10-year-old daughter, Aubree.

In her free time, Melisa looks forward to time with Ian and their daughters. They have a love for live music and also enjoy shorter, weekend getaways. Inspirational trips are a huge motivator for her, as well.

When it comes to staying engaged with the community, Melisa has been deeply involved with the Springfield Black Tie Committee for the past nine years in support of the local LGBTQ+ community.

As Melisa reflects on her continuing growth in the business, she also offers helpful advice for others who are looking to take their own steps ahead.

“First, I’d say that it’s important to put yourself out there. And in the process, don’t make it just about real estate. Remember that you are building relationships. In the process, don’t be scared to ask your friends for help while you start this new path,” Melisa says. 

“I think one of the best things you can do in this business is to learn to get uncomfortable. Just do it and get into action and keep going.”

That’s the kind of attitude and focus that allows Melisa McGuire to keep her eyes on the prize. 

In turn, she does the same for her clients … encouraging them to look at the end-goal and know that all of the steps along the way will help them get to their goals.