I’m a study in contrasts. I’m first on the floor for an Abba song, love TV costume dramas ,musicals and can eat chocolate for days. I was a stage mum when my girl was little, and I love anything Hamptons. But I’m also one of the only women in Australia with their own range of house plans in the male dominated building industry. I’m one of a handful—perhaps the lone unicorn!—who founded their own property business over a decade ago and has created not just forever homes or great investments for clients, but over $50 million in sales.As the director of Carnelian Projects, I’m armed with a real estate agent licence, a building and construction qualification, an arts degree and over 30 years’ experience in the property, sales and customer service industries.Real estate got under my skin early. I joined my parents’ agencies fresh from school, rising to selling and managing properties. Then at 40, as a mum of two who was nailing but not in love with a sales career, I wanted more freedom and to make more impact.So in 2011 Carnelian—servicing Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, Central Coast and Queensland—was born. What sets us apart is we don’t deal in older homes. Strictly new builds. Strictly what you want and need.So, yes, I’m a new home specialist. I’m passionate about helping people build, from first home owners with house and land packages to investors and those ready for their forever home. I also specialise in forensically checking outside tenders with an honest eye.That honesty is my calling card. Real estate isn’t always an industry where people have trust or faith in outcomes. As a second- generation real estate specialist, my mission is to change that using my straight shooter reputation and long relationships with buyers and builders.Think of me as your NEW BUILD WING WOMAN. I’ll be your advocate from the start of the sales process until handover. I advise on everything from interior design choices, budgets, improvements to plans. I liaise with builders. I give clarity.At bigger companies you’re passed from one person to another at a time when you’re financially and emotionally vulnerable. With me, you always get me. You get consistency, attention to detail and a bespoke service. Away from work, I’m still all about building and design. I love home magazines and the smell of paint. Love a laundry with great storage. So think of me if you’re thinking of building. I know it inside out—literally.