LYDIA WOLHETER 260.668.1541
What did I choose real estate as a career?
My husband and I earned our real estate licenses during our senior year at Purdue University. It was the perfect timing and we had a great instructor of the course. Initially, I didn’t plan to pursue a career in real estate; I intended to assist my husband while continuing my role as a sales representative for an o ce furniture company.
Though a next working group, I met the manager of a local title company, who suggested I apply for a position in title. I knew nothing about title work at the time, but I decided to take the job- and I loved it. I quickly leaned the ins and outs of the industry, connecting with local real estate agents, lenders, and clients. I enjoy guiding buyers and sellers though the closing process, making it as smooth and stress-free as possible while helping them understand every document they sign.
After having my rst child, my husband and I decided I would stay at home to raise our children and assist on the farm. My boss o ered me the opportunity to ll in during vacations or busy closing periods, and I happily accepted. That experience marked the beginning of my mobile closing business. For 12 years, I worked with several title companies, handling closings wherever it was most convenient for buyers.
Eventually, my husband and I discussed my transition into selling real estate. I’ve loved the shift-I enjoy building long-term relationships with clients, problem-solving, and researching properties to help buyers and sellers achieve their goals. Everyday, I’m grateful to combine my passion for real estate with the opportunity to make the process easier and more rewarding for those I work with.
Expanding My Client Base:
Strategies
My main way of growing my client base is through active involvement in the community. I grew up here and still live here, which has allowed me to build strong, long-term relationships. I’ve served on the local 4-H board, volunteered with the schools’ FFA programs, and contributed my time to the Lions Club. Being involved in the community helps me meet people, build trust, and be a resource when someone needs guidance in real estate. Doing life with others and lending a hand when I can is not only important to me—it brings me great joy.
I start each morning by reviewing new listings and recent sales—it’s the rst thing I do to stay on top of the market. I also attend local real estate lunch-and-learns and read the monthly updates from our o ce to stay informed on local trends and industry news. I’m a big fan of current events, both locally and nationally, and I like to stay informed by watching or listening to the news in the morning and, when possible, while making dinner. Staying informed helps me provide the best guidance and insights to my clients.
What makes you stand out?
First and foremost is my 15 years of experience in title insurance.
What I feel sets me apart is my in-depth knowledge of the real estate process and my strong connections with the people who are critical to making a transaction run smoothly. I enjoy researching properties thoroughly and preparing net sheets so my clients have a clear understanding of what to expect and how it aligns with their goals and plans. While it’s impossible to prevent every unexpected challenge in a transaction, I do everything I can to minimize potential issues. I make it a point to plan carefully and discuss each step of the process with my clients so they feel informed, con dent, and supported from start to nish. I also have my license in both Indiana and Michigan and this de nitely helps due to our proximity to the state line.
Mentors
Over the years, I’ve gathered valuable insights from many people, but the lessons that have stuck with me most are simple: treat people right, take care of your clients, and always be honest. I strive to do what I say I will, and to do it in a timely manner. I see my clients as friends, and I genuinely want to help them achieve their goals and dreams. Real estate is one area where I can make a meaningful di erence, and I approach it with dedication, care,
I would encourage anyone interested in real estate to gain experience in a title company or work as an o ce assistant for an established agent. These roles provide invaluable opportunities to meet people, learn the ins and outs of the industry, and understand the full transaction process. Additionally, getting involved in your community and building your network is key. And above all, always treat others the way you would like to be treated—honesty, respect, and integrity go a long way in building lasting relationships.
For me, working with clients isn’t really “work”—it’s simply part of how I operate. I genuinely enjoy helping others, and my mindset is always focused on helping clients reach their goals. My family is an active part of my work life. Sometimes my husband will drive me to showings or help put up signs, and my children are learning about the work I do. As they get older, they become more involved, discussing properties with me and learning how to research them. I believe in sharing your work with your family rather than letting it feel like a separate obligation.
With the exibility of real estate today, I can work from anywhere, hopping on my computer whenever needed. I’ve always been an early riser, starting my day while others are still asleep to get a head start before unexpected schedule interruptions occur. At the same time, I prioritize attending my children’s activities and spending quality time with them, discussing their day and experiences. Whether it’s real estate or farm work, my husband and I have always included our children in our work, helping them learn and participate along the way.
