From the Stage to Sales: My Creative Path to Real Estate

From the Stage to Sales: My Creative Path to Real Estate

Team Member Spotlight: Mary Grace McGivney

Looking back at my younger self, it’s intriguing to see how the pieces of my life’s puzzle fell into place, ultimately leading me to a career in real estate. 

Growing up, my world revolved around soccer, singing and the arts. I played soccer from a young age, pretty much as soon as I could walk, but I began singing even earlier. I attended an arts high school where creativity flourished, and my passion for musical theatre guided my college years. At the time, I never envisioned a future in real estate. Yet, as I reflect on my journey, I can see how the threads of my past were woven together in unexpected ways. 

From an early age, I thrived on the energy of performing. Being a part of shows and working alongside musicians and actors taught me about teamwork, communication, and the power of connection. These experiences instilled in me a deep understanding of people—how to read emotions, engage effectively, and build rapport. In real estate, these skills have proven to be invaluable. Whether it’s negotiating a deal or hosting an open house, the ability to connect with clients and understand their needs is paramount.

My years playing soccer taught me strength, resilience and community. Just as a team must work together to achieve victory, I’ve learned that successful real estate transactions rely on steadfast collaboration—whether it’s with clients, other agents, attorneys, lenders, you name it. The competitive nature of soccer has equipped me with the drive to go above and beyond for my clients, ensuring they receive the best possible experience.

My love for musical theatre and passion for singing may seem distant from real estate, but both share a common thread: connection. In theatre, every performance is a narrative that captivates an audience and tells a story. Truly connecting with an audience is an artist’s greatest accomplishment. Similarly, real estate is about connecting with your client, whether they’re buying, selling or renting, listening to their stories and really figuring out their ‘why’. Each home has a unique narrative and I find joy in helping clients envision their lives within those walls. This storytelling aspect of my work allows me to channel my creative background into something tangible and meaningful.

Entering the real estate world was not a linear path, but rather a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Each experience—whether on stage, in the classroom, or on the soccer field—has equipped me with a diverse skill set that complements my role as an agent. My background in the arts has made me not only a more effective communicator but also a more empathetic listener and efficient problem solver — all traits I’m grateful to have while navigating the complexities of New York City real estate.

As I reflect on my journey, I’m grateful for these moments that have shaped who I am today. Real estate might not have been my original plan, but it feels like a natural culmination of my passions and skills. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, and I embrace them with the same enthusiasm I once reserved for the stage and field. Who knew that my artistic roots would blossom into a fulfilling career in real estate? It just goes to show that sometimes, the most unexpected paths can lead to the most rewarding destinations.