By Rick Mauch
Candy’s Dirt Contributor
From meticulously styling hair to expertly placing individuals in their dream homes, Monica Spence possesses a remarkable talent for empowering people and enhancing their lives. Her journey into real estate is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to service, making her a standout figure in the competitive North Texas market.
Monica, a dynamic leader within the Willow Park-based Spence Real Estate Group, works hand-in-hand with her husband, Cliff. Before embarking on her real estate career, she dedicated 27 years to the beauty industry, owning and operating a successful hair salon. Her transition into real estate in January 2020 coincided with her marriage to Cliff, who had already established a strong presence in the real estate sector for several years. This pivotal life change, coupled with unforeseen global events, opened a new chapter for Monica, allowing her to leverage her innate people skills in a completely different, yet equally rewarding, field.
The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic shortly after her wedding proved to be a catalyst for Monica’s career pivot. With her salon temporarily closed, joining Cliff in real estate emerged as a compelling opportunity. What began as a necessity quickly transformed into a profound passion. Now, several years into her real estate journey, Monica is an indispensable part of the Spence Real Estate Group, actively selling properties across highly sought-after areas including Keller, Haslet, North Fort Worth, and the surrounding vibrant communities. Her deep understanding of these local markets, combined with her dedication to client satisfaction, ensures that buyers and sellers receive unparalleled guidance and support.
“I wear many hats within our team, but my official title is buyer’s agent and team leader for Spence Real Estate Group,” Monica proudly states. Her role encompasses everything from guiding first-time homebuyers to navigating complex transactions for seasoned investors, all while leading a team dedicated to excellence. Born in Amarillo 52 years ago, Monica moved to Fort Worth at the tender age of two, forging a lifelong connection with the DFW metroplex that now fuels her expertise as a local real estate authority. She recently took the time to share insights into her career passions, the unique aspects of her work, and the challenges and rewards of the real estate industry.
Can you elaborate on how you got into the real estate business, especially considering your background?
My journey into real estate was truly serendipitous, accelerated by circumstances no one could have predicted. Cliff and I had been discussing the possibility of me getting my real estate license for a while. The main hurdle was always finding the time to fit classes into my incredibly busy schedule as a salon owner. I began researching schools in March 2020, intending to map out a feasible study plan. However, almost immediately after I started my research, the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, leading to widespread closures, including all the real estate schools.
Not long after, my salon, like many other businesses, was also forced to shut its doors. Suddenly, I found myself with an abundance of time, something I hadn’t experienced in decades. Initially, there was a week of panic and uncertainty, grappling with the unknown implications of the pandemic. But then, a moment of clarity emerged. With my salon closed and extra time on my hands, the obstacle to taking real estate classes had vanished. I promptly enrolled in an online real estate school, embracing this unexpected “gift of time” that COVID-19 inadvertently provided.
Over the next six intense weeks, I immersed myself in the coursework, completing all my required classes and even delving into additional modules to deepen my understanding. When testing centers eventually reopened, albeit with significant backlogs due to cancellations, my determination led me on a journey to Waco. I drove all the way there to take my exam, circumventing the lengthy wait times in the DFW area. My persistence paid off, and I successfully passed, officially commencing my real estate career in May 2020. This unique entry into the industry, born out of a global crisis, truly shaped my perspective and commitment to my clients.
Does it help to have a spouse in the same business, and what are the advantages of such a partnership?
Having my husband, Cliff, in the same business is an immeasurable advantage; it helps tremendously. Our partnership is built on a foundation of shared goals, mutual support, and complementary skills that significantly benefit our clients and our team. Cliff has been in the real estate business for many years, so his experience and wisdom are invaluable. He provides mentorship, guidance, and often acts as a sounding board for new ideas or complex situations. This constant availability of expertise means I always have someone right by my side to consult with, learn from, and collaborate on challenging aspects of the business.
We approach every transaction and every client together, leveraging our combined knowledge to offer a comprehensive service. This synergy allows us to divide responsibilities efficiently, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. For instance, while I might be busy showing properties or meeting with clients, Cliff can manage market research, contract preparation, or administrative tasks, and vice versa. This collaborative effort not only enhances our productivity but also provides our clients with the benefit of two dedicated professionals working seamlessly on their behalf. It eliminates the typical competition that might arise in other fields and instead fosters a dynamic where we always work toward a unified success, both professionally and personally.
Do you sell together, or is there a friendly competition between you and Cliff?
That’s an interesting question! I am competitive by nature, so yes, there was certainly a period where a friendly competition occasionally surfaced, especially when I was just starting out and perhaps overestimated my initial understanding of the intricacies of real estate (I chuckle thinking back on it). However, it quickly became clear that our individual strengths and weaknesses are perfectly complementary, leading us to realize that working together is the most effective and ultimately rewarding approach for both of us, and more importantly, for our clients. We operate under the philosophy that when we collaborate, we both win, and our clients win even more.
Our partnership is a classic example of synergy. I tend to be the “people person,” thriving on direct client interaction, understanding their needs, building rapport, and navigating the emotional aspects of buying or selling a home. My background in hairstyling honed my ability to listen, empathize, and communicate effectively, skills that are invaluable in real estate negotiations and client relations. Cliff, on the other hand, excels as the “desk person.” He possesses an exceptional knack for market analysis, contract details, legalities, and the meticulous administrative tasks that are crucial for successful transactions. He’s the strategist, the detail-oriented backbone of our operations.
By combining my interpersonal skills with Cliff’s analytical prowess, we offer a comprehensive service that covers every facet of the real estate process. This division of labor allows us to play to our individual strengths, maximizing efficiency and ensuring that our clients receive expert attention at every stage. We don’t just sell properties; we guide people through one of the most significant decisions of their lives with a unified, professional, and empathetic approach.
What would you say truly separates you and the Spence Real Estate Group from others in the industry?
Several key elements truly set the Spence Real Estate Group apart in a crowded market, but at the core of it, our dedication to service and our unique approach to giving back are paramount. First and foremost, we are passionate about helping people and making a tangible difference in their lives, extending beyond the typical transactional relationship. A prime example of this commitment is our affiliation with Homes for Heroes. Through this incredible program, we proudly donate 25 percent of our commissions back to military personnel, first responders, healthcare workers, and teachers. This initiative covers a vast majority of the selfless individuals who contribute so much to our communities, allowing us to express our gratitude and offer significant financial support to those who truly deserve it. It’s more than just a donation; it’s a way to honor their service and make homeownership more accessible for these vital community pillars.
Beyond our philanthropic endeavors, what truly distinguishes us is the “two for the price of one” advantage. When you choose to work with the Spence Real Estate Group, you don’t just get one agent; you get both Cliff and me. This means our clients benefit from a dual perspective, a broader range of expertise, and double the dedication. Clients receive the combined experience of a seasoned veteran and a passionate, empathetic leader, ensuring round-the-clock availability and comprehensive support throughout their real estate journey. Whether it’s my client-centric approach and negotiation skills or Cliff’s analytical prowess and market insight, our combined efforts provide an unparalleled level of service and strategic advantage. This collaborative model ensures that every aspect of the transaction is handled with meticulous care, offering peace of mind and superior results that single agents often cannot replicate.
Can you explain what a probate real estate agent is and why that’s important to you?
My commitment to continuous education and professional development is a cornerstone of my career, as evidenced by the numerous classes, certifications, and designations I’ve pursued. However, the certification that holds the deepest personal significance for me is my recent achievement as a Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist (CPRES). This designation allows me to specialize in handling real estate transactions that involve the probate process, a legal procedure that validates a will and distributes a deceased person’s assets.
Becoming a CPRES agent means I possess specialized knowledge of the legal intricacies, timelines, and emotional sensitivities associated with selling property during probate. It requires understanding court procedures, working with estate attorneys, and ensuring that all transactions comply with state and local probate laws. This is not a typical real estate transaction; it’s often a complex, time-sensitive, and emotionally charged process.
This area of expertise is profoundly important to me because of my own personal experience. I have sadly lost both of my parents and had to navigate the probate process firsthand. I intimately understand not only the legal complexities and administrative burden but, more importantly, the profound pain of grief that individuals and families are enduring during such a difficult time. This personal journey has instilled in me a true, deep compassion when working with probate clients. My role extends far beyond simply facilitating a property sale; I strive to be a supportive guide, an empathetic listener, and a trusted resource. I provide not just real estate expertise but also emotional support, sharing resources, and even teaching grief classes as a way to help my clients heal and move forward. This specialized niche allows me to offer comfort and clarity during one of life’s most challenging periods, transforming a daunting process into one that is handled with sensitivity and professionalism.
What are your thoughts on the challenges presented by do-it-yourself apps for potential home buyers?
The rise of do-it-yourself real estate apps and platforms has certainly introduced a new dynamic to the industry, and while they promise simplicity and savings, my primary concern is how easily buyers can be taken advantage of without professional guidance. These apps often create a false sense of security, leading many individuals to believe they can navigate complex transactions on their own. However, the reality of real estate is far more intricate than what these platforms reveal. For the most part, people don’t take the time to meticulously read and understand the “fine print” in contracts, which can contain critical clauses, deadlines, and responsibilities that can have significant legal and financial ramifications. There are countless hidden fees, unexpected closing costs, and dense legal jargon that laypeople simply gloss over or fail to comprehend fully. This oversight can lead to disastrous consequences.
Many buyers using these DIY apps end up leaving substantial amounts of money on the table, either by overpaying for a property, failing to negotiate effectively, or missing out on crucial credits and concessions they could have secured with an experienced agent. They often have no idea of the market nuances, property defects, or contractual pitfalls that only a professional can identify and mitigate. Without an advocate on their side, buyers are vulnerable to making costly mistakes, exposing themselves to legal liabilities, and ultimately experiencing a far more stressful and less successful home-buying journey. These apps, while convenient on the surface, often strip away the invaluable protection, expertise, and negotiation power that a dedicated real estate agent provides, making them a significant challenge to consumer protection within our industry.
What do you see as the biggest challenge in the industry today, particularly with evolving technology?
In today’s rapidly evolving real estate landscape, I identify two primary, interconnected challenges that significantly impact our industry: the pervasive competition from do-it-yourself (DIY) apps and the ongoing need to educate consumers on the immense value and behind-the-scenes work that professional Realtors provide. The first challenge, the proliferation of DIY platforms, has fundamentally shifted consumer expectations. Many potential buyers and sellers now believe that technology alone can facilitate a seamless transaction, diminishing the perceived need for a human expert. These apps, while offering convenience, often oversimplify the complex realities of real estate, leading individuals to believe they can handle what is often the largest financial transaction of their lives without professional guidance.
This leads directly into the second, and arguably greater, challenge: educating the consumer on all the work Realtors truly do. Until I became a Realtor myself, I confess I had no idea of the incredible depth of work, specialized knowledge, and sheer effort involved in every transaction. The general public often underestimates the extensive duties of an agent, thinking we are simply “overpaid for putting a sign in the yard.” This misconception is further fueled by negative experiences some individuals have had with “bad Realtors,” which unfortunately taints the perception of the entire profession. In my relatively short career thus far, I’ve encountered numerous people who genuinely believe they can sell their homes themselves or navigate a purchase solo, not realizing how much intensive work, strategic negotiation, market analysis, legal compliance, and crisis management goes into every deal. They often remain unaware of how much more money they could have made or saved, and how much stress they could have avoided, by partnering with a knowledgeable professional. It is our collective and individual responsibility as Realtors to proactively educate each client we encounter, demonstrating our intrinsic value beyond merely opening doors or listing properties, and showcasing the critical expertise we bring to protect their interests and maximize their outcomes.
If you could change one thing in the industry, what would it be and why?
If I could unilaterally change one thing in the real estate industry today, my immediate answer would be to get rid of the Zestimate feature from Zillow. This might sound specific, but its impact on both potential sellers and buyers is profoundly negative and creates significant hurdles for real estate professionals. The Zestimate, while presented as a convenient and authoritative valuation, is fundamentally flawed and notoriously inaccurate in many cases. These numbers are generated by proprietary algorithms that often fail to account for critical local market nuances, specific property conditions, unique upgrades or deteriorations, and the emotional value or distress factors that influence real-world pricing. Essentially, they provide an automated valuation without the indispensable human touch and on-the-ground expertise required for accurate appraisal.
The primary problem arises when these usually inaccurate figures give potential clients a false sense of what their property is truly worth. Sellers, seeing an inflated Zestimate, develop unrealistic expectations about their home’s potential sale price, making it incredibly difficult for professional agents to present them with accurate, data-backed comparative market analyses (CMAs). When we, as local experts, provide them with precise market valuations based on recent sales, current trends, and the property’s specific attributes, they often don’t want to believe us. This disconnect creates tension, delays, and often leads to homes being overpriced, sitting on the market longer, and eventually selling for less than they would have if priced correctly from the start. Conversely, buyers can also be misled, either overvaluing or undervaluing properties based on Zestimates, complicating negotiations. Eliminating this often misleading tool would allow for a clearer, more honest conversation about property values, fostering trust and efficiency within the real estate transaction process.
Beyond your demanding career, what are your passions and hobbies?
Despite the demanding nature of a career in real estate, I believe in maintaining a balanced life filled with activities that recharge my spirit and allow me to give back to my community. My hobbies are a reflection of my values and my energetic personality. One of my deepest passions is volunteering at my church. This involvement is incredibly fulfilling, offering me a chance to connect with my faith community, support various outreach programs, and contribute to meaningful causes that extend beyond the professional realm. It’s a grounding experience that provides perspective and reinforces the importance of compassion and service in everyday life.
athletically, I am an avid participant in triathlons and endurance events. These challenges, which combine swimming, cycling, and running, require significant discipline, mental fortitude, and consistent training. I am drawn to the personal challenge and the immense sense of accomplishment that comes from pushing my physical and mental limits. This dedication to endurance sports not only keeps me physically fit but also instills a strong sense of perseverance, goal-setting, and resilience – qualities that are undeniably beneficial in the dynamic and often demanding world of real estate. The lessons learned from training and competing in triathlons, such as overcoming obstacles and maintaining focus under pressure, translate directly into my professional life, allowing me to approach complex transactions with unwavering determination.
Furthermore, giving back to the community is a core part of who I am, and I am deeply involved in raising money for charity. Currently, I proudly serve on the board for Children’s Charities of Fort Worth. This organization is dedicated to improving the lives of children in our community by supporting various non-profits focused on their health, education, and well-being. My involvement allows me to actively contribute to causes I care deeply about, channeling my energy and resources towards making a tangible positive impact on the lives of vulnerable youth. Whether through organizing fundraising events, advocating for children’s needs, or simply spreading awareness, this charitable work is a profound source of joy and purpose, reinforcing my belief in building stronger, more supportive communities.
If you know of an agent for us to profile, please email Rick Mauch or [email protected]