For many, her face and incredible talent are instantly recognizable. Several years ago, Olivia Sharber captivated audiences with her signature high kick, securing a coveted spot among the most elite cheerleading squads in the NFL: the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Her powerful solo performance on the CMT original series “Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team” undeniably won over the judges, signaling to everyone that this young woman was destined for extraordinary achievements. Sharber’s journey in professional dance continued as she went on to perform with the legendary Radio City Rockettes, further cementing her status as a premier performer.
Today, this accomplished retired professional dancer has embarked on a new, equally demanding, and illustrious career path. Olivia Sharber has now joined the ranks of @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, bringing her unparalleled drive, precision, and charisma to the world of luxury real estate. Her transition into this competitive industry has been marked by the same dedication and excellence that characterized her dance career. Daltxrealestate.com recently had the privilege of sitting down with Sharber to delve into her fascinating journey, exploring how she transitioned from dazzling stages to becoming a shining star in the Dallas real estate market with @properties Christie’s.
Interviewer: When did you first venture into the world of real estate, and what inspired that decision?
Olivia Sharber: My initial foray into real estate began in the vibrant, fast-paced environment of New York City in 2019. At that time, I was still fully immersed in my professional dance career, balancing rehearsals and performances with a growing interest in the real estate market. It was an incredibly exciting period, and I quickly found success, learning the intricacies of the New York market. However, the unexpected arrival of Covid-19 drastically altered everything. The city, which never truly sleeps, simply shut down. This unprecedented global event brought an abrupt halt to daily life and, consequently, my burgeoning real estate endeavors there.
The sudden shutdown was a profound shock. I had established a really promising trajectory in real estate, but my husband and I were also expecting our first baby, and suddenly we found ourselves confined to our tiny New York apartment. I distinctly remember the initial thoughts when the lockdowns began: “This will only be for a few days,” then “maybe a few weeks.” Those few weeks stretched into many agonizing months. The sheer uncertainty and the prolonged confinement in a bustling city brought to a standstill made us reconsider our immediate future. We had to ask ourselves, how long could we realistically sustain living under such restrictive and isolating conditions?
This situation prompted a significant life decision. We chose to move to Dallas, my hometown, initially planning for a temporary six-month stay. We rented a lovely home in Preston Hollow, believing it would be a brief respite. Yet, as fate would have it, the Omicron variant emerged, extending the global crisis and our stay in Dallas. What began as a temporary relocation morphed into a permanent one. Consequently, I pursued and obtained my real estate license here in Texas in 2021. Upon my return, I was incredibly fortunate and deeply honored to be offered a position on the esteemed Eklund Gomes team at Douglas Elliman, a testament to the reputation I had built. My journey then led me to my current esteemed position at @properties Christie’s, where I continue to thrive.
Interviewer: Could you describe the real estate market in New York City at the onset of the pandemic, and what were some of the early signals or “rumblings” you observed?
Olivia Sharber: Prior to the full impact of the pandemic, the New York City real estate market was operating at its usual bustling pace, always vibrant and incredibly active. I was with Douglas Elliman at the time, and we were handling multiple high-value transactions. I recall vividly that in February 2020, just as concerns began to mount, we had three or more prominent million-dollar listings actively on the market, generating significant interest. The initial signs of trouble weren’t directly market-related, but rather deeply intertwined with the city’s unique density and daily rhythms.
New York City is, by its very nature, an incredibly dense and interconnected urban environment. The initial lockdowns started with office buildings, which then cascaded into widespread apprehension. People grew increasingly nervous about using public transportation, especially the subways, and navigating crowded streets. The communal aspect of city living, once a hallmark, became a source of anxiety. Soon after, the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) made the unprecedented decision to halt all in-person showings. This presented an enormous challenge for agents like myself. We suddenly found ourselves questioning how we could possibly sell these valuable listings, many of which were luxury properties, without the ability to conduct physical tours or open houses. The traditional methods of engaging potential buyers were simply gone. In response, we had to innovate rapidly. I began conducting open houses through Facebook Live, leveraging social media to connect with potential buyers remotely. For private viewings, I adapted to using FaceTime, conducting virtual tours while wearing full masks and gloves for safety. It was a surreal experience, but somehow, we managed to get transactions completed during an incredibly challenging period, showcasing the resilience and adaptability required in this industry.
Interviewer: How did New York City, a place synonymous with constant motion and energy, adapt to its “new normal” during the pandemic? What was that experience like?
Olivia Sharber: The transformation New York City underwent was drastic, almost beyond comprehension for those who hadn’t experienced it firsthand. It felt as though everything simply ceased to exist. For a city that prided itself on its relentless energy, its 24/7 pulse, the silence was deafening. The moment Broadway, the heart of New York’s cultural life and a major economic engine, announced its indefinite closure, that’s when the gravity of the situation truly sank in for New Yorkers. It was an unprecedented event, something that had never happened before in modern history. The cessation of live theater, bustling restaurants, and vibrant street life was a stark reminder that this was unlike any crisis the city had ever faced.
The atmosphere shifted profoundly, almost immediately, from the vibrant, pulsating New York we all knew to what felt like a “Dooms Day” scenario. There were no familiar noises – no honking taxis, no distant sirens, no chatter from crowded sidewalks. All the characteristic sounds of the city, which usually formed an intricate symphony of urban life, were replaced by an eerie quiet. It was profoundly odd, unsettling, and almost surreal. During that time, we were actively discouraged from using the subways unless it was absolutely unavoidable. Given my pregnancy, my husband would often drive me to my doctor’s appointments, navigating streets that were usually gridlocked. I distinctly remember driving down 5th Avenue, typically one of the busiest thoroughfares in the world, and being the only car on the road. The sight of iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building or Rockefeller Center against a deserted backdrop was both beautiful and deeply unsettling, a poignant symbol of a city brought to its knees, yet still standing.
Interviewer: Before your illustrious career in real estate, you dedicated four years to the iconic Radio City Rockettes. Could you share some insights into your time at Radio City Music Hall?
Olivia Sharber: My years with the Radio City Rockettes were, without a doubt, some of the hardest and simultaneously most rewarding days of my life. The level of dedication and physical endurance required is immense. Our rehearsal schedule was grueling, typically running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day. However, once we transitioned into tech rehearsals for the Christmas Spectacular, those days extended to an intense 12 hours, demanding absolute focus and stamina. The performance schedule during the holiday season was equally demanding: we would perform an astounding 15 shows a week, often with four shows packed into a single day. Precision dancing, the hallmark of the Rockettes, means every single movement is meticulously choreographed. You have to “toe the line” in the most literal sense, ensuring every arch, every kick, and every formation is perfectly synchronized. Your body endures a tremendous amount of stress and strain.
Yet, despite the physical toll, the experience was incredibly enriching because you share it with an extraordinary group of women. You go through all of this—the intense rehearsals, the demanding performances, the relentless schedule—together, particularly during the holiday season encompassing Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. This shared crucible forges an unbreakable bond, and your fellow dancers truly become an extended family. Even though I’m no longer performing in the show, those bonds and the feeling of family remain incredibly strong to this day. What’s even more remarkable is how I landed the role; it was somewhat by chance. While I was still cheering professionally, I visited some friends in the city who encouraged me to join them at the Rockettes audition. My initial intention was simply to see how many cuts I could make, to test my abilities. But to my surprise, I kept getting called back, progressing through each round until I was offered a spot. I feel profoundly lucky and genuinely honored to have had the opportunity to perform in such an iconic show for as long as I did. It was a dream come true, born from a spontaneous decision.
Interviewer: Prior to joining the Rockettes in 2015, many people first saw you audition to become a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader on CMT’s “Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team.” How would you describe that audition process? Was it as grueling as it appears on television, or even more intense in person?
Olivia Sharber: The audition process for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is undeniably a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s especially challenging for rookies. The television show accurately captures a good deal of the intensity, but experiencing it firsthand adds another layer of pressure and rigor. The first round is a high-stakes improvisation dance, where you have just 1.5 minutes to showcase your unique style and stage presence. This demands not only physical agility but also the ability to think creatively and literally “on your feet,” adapting to the music and expressing your individuality under intense scrutiny. It’s a true test of spontaneous performance.
The second round focuses on technical skill and endurance. Contestants must quickly learn complex dance combinations and then perform a rigorous kickline, a signature element of the DCC. This segment is designed to demonstrate your ability to pick up choreography quickly, execute it with precision, and prove you have the stamina required for the demanding performances throughout a season. Following the physical rounds is the equally crucial interview round, where judges assess your personality, communication skills, and how well you represent the DCC brand. Finally, at the finals, the existing veterans join the process, which can be incredibly intimidating. Their presence adds another layer of competition and raises the stakes even higher, as you’re not just trying to impress the judges, but also earn the respect of those who have already achieved the dream.
It is by no means an easy process. While I had the advantage of being a little more seasoned due to my background as a professional dancer, having already experienced numerous auditions in a highly competitive industry. As a professional dancer, you learn to develop a thick skin; you genuinely hear more “No’s” than “Yes’s,” and this prepares you mentally for rejection, toughening you up for those inevitable setbacks. Despite that experience, the DCC audition was still one of the most demanding and rigorous processes I’ve ever gone through, pushing me to my physical and mental limits. It taught me invaluable lessons in perseverance, adaptability, and resilience, qualities that are just as vital in real estate today.
Interviewer: Looking back at your time dancing for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, what stands out as your best memory or experience?
Olivia Sharber: There are so many incredible memories from my time with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, but a few truly stand out. The USO tours were exceptionally special and profoundly moving experiences. Only a select group of 12 cheerleaders were chosen to participate, which made it an even greater honor. We traveled to places like Bahrain and Kuwait, bringing a small piece of America, a sense of home, and a burst of joy to U.S. soldiers serving overseas. These were places that very few civilians ever have the opportunity to visit, making the experience incredibly unique and impactful. Seeing the soldiers’ faces light up, sharing moments of connection, and offering a brief respite from their demanding duties was truly unforgettable and deeply humbling for me. It was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices they make and the profound impact a simple show of support can have.
Beyond the tours, I also fondly recall the everyday “locker room shenanigans” and the unique camaraderie forged among the squad. There’s a certain bond that forms when you share such intense experiences, both the highs and the lows, with a group of like-minded women. It truly felt like having a perpetual sleepover with all your 12-year-old best friends, but experiencing that magical feeling as an adult. The laughter, the support, the shared understanding of the demanding schedule and high expectations—all of it created a sisterhood unlike any other. Those friendships and that sense of collective spirit were incredibly supportive and remain a cherished part of my life. I absolutely loved every aspect of it, and the memories of those bonds are just as vibrant as the performances themselves.
Interviewer: In your real estate career, have you had a mentor or someone who significantly guided you, and what invaluable lessons did they impart?
Olivia Sharber: I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had exceptional mentors in my real estate journey, each offering unique and profound insights. When I first started in New York City, I was mentored by someone who had been navigating the complexities of the industry for over two decades. Her guidance was foundational. The main lessons I absorbed from her were centered on the absolute necessity of honesty and integrity in this business. She taught me that these aren’t just admirable traits, but fundamental pillars for sustained success. When you consistently treat people well—whether they are your clients, fellow agents on the other side of a deal, or even service providers—with respect and genuine goodwill, that respect is reciprocated, and those favors are often returned. This philosophy has shaped my entire approach to real estate, emphasizing long-term relationships over short-term gains.
Additionally, when I moved back to Texas, I was honored to join the Eklund Gomes team as part of their expansion into the region. Working alongside titans of the industry like Fredrik Eklund, John Gomes, and Julia Spillman was an unparalleled learning experience. From them, I gained not only an incredible amount of knowledge about what it takes to be a highly effective and successful agent but also invaluable lessons on what it means to be a truly good person within and outside of the profession. Their dedication, ethical standards, and genuine care for their clients and team members left a lasting impression. I hold the utmost respect for each of them and feel genuinely honored to have had the opportunity to learn from such influential figures. Their guidance has been instrumental in refining my skills and solidifying my ethical compass in this competitive field.
Interviewer: Which part of town do you currently reside in?
Olivia Sharber: I currently live in Preston Hollow, a wonderful neighborhood here in Dallas.
Interviewer: What do you find to be the best aspects of living in Preston Hollow, and are there any favorite “gems” that people might overlook about your neighborhood?
Olivia Sharber: The best part about living in Preston Hollow, for my family and me, is definitely the incredible accessibility to all of our favorite restaurants and amenities. We are spoiled for choice with fantastic dining options just a stone’s throw away, including esteemed establishments like Ill Braco, Shin Sei, Carbonne, Jose, Eddie V’s, and the classic Al Biernat’s. This allows for spontaneous family dinners or elegant evenings out, all within a convenient distance. Beyond the culinary scene, the neighborhood offers a fantastic quality of life, especially for families. We cherish being so close to beautiful green spaces like Thackery Park and Bluffview Park, which are perfect for spending quality time outdoors with our children. These parks provide wonderful recreational opportunities and a sense of community that we deeply value. And, of course, a truly invaluable gem that absolutely cannot be overlooked is the proximity to Northpark Center. It’s more than just a mall; it’s a premier shopping, dining, and cultural destination that adds immense value and convenience to living in Preston Hollow, offering everything from high-end boutiques to art installations. It truly embodies the sophisticated yet family-friendly lifestyle that defines our neighborhood.
Interviewer: What factors led you to choose @properties Christie’s International Real Estate as your brokerage?
Olivia Sharber: My decision to join @properties Christie’s International Real Estate was driven by several key factors that truly set them apart in the industry. Foremost among these are their cutting-edge technology and unparalleled marketing capabilities. In today’s competitive real estate landscape, having access to innovative digital tools and a robust, sophisticated marketing platform is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity. @properties Christie’s provides top-notch resources that empower agents to present properties in the best possible light, reach a wider, more targeted audience, and streamline the entire transaction process. This commitment to technological advancement and superior marketing support ensures that our clients receive exceptional exposure and service, which is incredibly important to me.
Furthermore, the degree of support they furnish for their agents is genuinely unmatched. From comprehensive training programs to readily available resources and a collaborative environment, @properties Christie’s invests heavily in empowering its team. This strong support system allows agents like myself to focus more intently on serving our clients with dedication and expertise, knowing we have a powerful infrastructure backing us. This emphasis on agent development and client satisfaction aligns perfectly with my own professional values and goals. The combination of innovative technology, sophisticated marketing, and unwavering agent support creates an environment where both agents and clients can achieve optimal outcomes, making it an ideal place for me to continue building my real estate career.