Letting go of stability led to an adventure beyond what I ever imagined, centering my life around helping others and connecting with the people I serve. In embracing uncertainty, I discovered a fulfillment I never knew was possible.

 

"Nancy, you just need to work another 35 years, and then you can retire," the regional manager told me as we attended a Wells Fargo pep rally. Their words hit me like a ton of bricks. It felt like a life sentence—I couldn't shake the feeling that there had to be more to life than clocking in and out every day, stuck in the corporate grind.

 

Growing up, I learned the true meaning of hard work early on. My mother had 12 children total, and I was the eldest. When my parents divorced, I was only 12. My mom remarried twice, and we moved often, regularly repairing these homes before moving on to the next. My mom never hired contractors; instead, we did the work to save money. From roofing to painting, I learned to do it all. This lifestyle taught me the value of hard work and adaptability, but also made me crave a stable, secure future.

 

At just 18, I started my career working at Wells Fargo, climbing the ladder with a clear path ahead of me. Yet, those words from my regional manager changed everything. The job was too comfortable, too predictable—I didn’t feel challenged. My husband, Chy Ways, saw my potential and encouraged me to leave the corporate world and pursue something different. 

 

First, I got my cosmetology license and spent 10 years in the field. It was fulfilling in its own way, talking with clients, building relationships, and honing my customer service skills. What I loved most was working with people one-on-one—that is where my true skills shine. Three years into my cosmetology career, my husband saw even more in me. He suggested I get into real estate as a REALTOR®.

 

My husband and I started flipping homes right after we got married. We would buy rundown properties and transform them into incredible spaces people wanted to live in. While my husband handled the heavy-duty tasks like knocking down walls and installing new fixtures, I focused on painting, cleaning, and ensuring the property was market ready. 

 

Despite my initial reservations, I knew my hands-on experience would be an asset. In 2009, I took the plunge, just after the market crashed. The first year, I focused on learning the ins and outs of the business. I worked with families facing foreclosure, often spending hours talking to them, and helping them understand their options. It was tough, but it taught me the importance of personal connection through these significant life transitions. I gradually built my reputation in St. Paul applying my knowledge of the area to match people to the perfect neighborhoods and homes. I began to specialize in listings too, using my experience flipping homes to present homes in a way that was very appealing to buyers.

 

Leaving behind my corporate job was difficult at first, but quickly became a liberating experience. Looking back, I see how my upbringing prepared me for the challenges of entrepreneurship. Real estate allows me to control my destiny, help people achieve their dreams, and provide for my family.

 

Our family is our ultimate motivation, with five kids, Kami (19), Christian (18), Chase (12), Violet (9), and Charlie (3). My husband and I work very hard to demonstrate to them the power of perseverance and pursuing your passions. Kami has started her own cleaning business working with rentals, including some of our own. Christian is starting school at Academy College. We are very proud of our kids and prioritize family time.

 

In embracing uncertainty, I found my true calling, transforming both my life and the lives of those I serve. I love using photography and social media like one big scrapbook to share our adventures with friends, family, and clients! I always find it exciting to connect with clients on a deeper level, learning about their families while sharing my own experiences. It makes my job even more rewarding and fulfilling!

 

With many years of experience in real estate, I often help newer agents find their footing and learn the ropes. One of the most common things I hear is that they “love looking at homes.” But the home is just a byproduct of our work. The real core of our job is helping people make decisions—often tough ones—when they’re overwhelmed with information and options. Everyone’s situation is unique, which is why it is so important to build trust and understand their needs, concerns, and dreams to create a personalized experience.

 

Working at Wells Fargo taught me valuable lessons in customer service and problem-solving under pressure. I know how to diffuse tense situations and find quick solutions. Similarly, my time as a hairstylist taught me how to create a comfortable space for clients to share their stories and experiences. My clients want to know that they can depend on me, that I will listen to them, and that I will meet their needs with the same level of dedication every time. The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the joy and relief on my clients’ faces when they achieve their goals—nothing compares to making a positive impact on their lives!

 

Sincerely,

 

Nancy Yang

Broker-Associate | LIC#40351579

Mobile (612) 600-5477

Office (651) 578-2272

nancy@nancyyang.com

nancyyang.com