Interview by Kelly Postiglione.
We’re thrilled to introduce Jennie as the real estate expert on the Rye & Rye Brook Moms team! As our go-to pro, she’ll be keeping us updated on everything happening in the local market—from the latest housing trends and insider tips on buying and selling to advice on making the most of life in the Rye area.
As a Rye resident, mom of three, and experienced real estate professional, Jennie brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to the table. Having moved nine times in 13 years—including internationally and across the country—she understands the challenges of relocation on a personal level. Her expertise goes beyond just finding the perfect home; she helps families seamlessly transition into their new community.
Jennie shares her journey, top tips for home buyers and sellers, and what makes Rye such a special place to call home. Whether you’re thinking about making a move or just want to stay informed on the local market, Jennie is here to help!
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your professional background? What brought you to Rye?
I’m originally from the UK and moved to the US in 2011. I currently live in Rye with my husband, our three kids, and two dogs. Prior to getting into real estate, I spent many years in corporate sales, including as the Head of Partner Sales for Dell UK. However, after moving nine times in 13 years—including an international move and two cross-country relocations—and experiencing everything from renting and being a landlord to buying a teardown and building a home, I realized I had gained extensive personal knowledge about the moving process. I saw an opportunity to combine that experience with my extensive sales skills to help others navigate their own moves and relocations. My lived experience of navigating all the ups and downs of the moving process with a family gives me a unique ability to empathize with my clients, anticipate their needs and concerns, and offer valuable guidance along the way.
In 2023, we moved back to the East Coast for my husband’s job after spending five years on the North Shore of Chicago. Before moving back, we explored different areas, and having previously lived in Old Greenwich, CT, for seven years, we ultimately chose Rye for its exceptional schools, proximity to New York City, charming downtown, and access to beaches. It felt like the perfect place for our family, and we’ve been thrilled with our decision ever since.
How has your experience of moving so often given you a unique perspective on relocation?
I have a deep, firsthand understanding of the relocation process—not just logistically, but also emotionally and socially for the whole family. Each move has given me valuable insight into what truly matters when choosing a new community and settling into a home. I know the excitement and challenges of adjusting to a new environment, finding the right schools, building a social network, and making a house feel like home.
This personal experience allows me to guide my clients with empathy and insight, helping them not just find the perfect property but also feel at home in their new surroundings. Whether it’s recommending great local spots, navigating school choices, or understanding the nuances of different neighborhoods, I bring a level of personal experience that makes the transition smoother and more enjoyable.
What advice do you have for families moving to Westchester from NYC or from another state or country?
First, take the time to carefully consider your budget—this means factoring in all costs of homeownership, not just the mortgage payment. Once you have a clear budget, think about your priorities. Every town and home will come with trade-offs, so it’s important to know what’s non-negotiable for you. With your budget and goals in mind, you can find the town and then the home that meets the most of your goals within your price range.
What’s one piece of advice you give every client when starting the home-buying process?
Don’t skip the financial prep work. Before diving into home tours, it’s essential to get pre-approved for a mortgage and understand your full budget—including closing costs and potential renovations. This not only makes you a stronger buyer in a competitive market but also helps you move quickly and confidently when the right home comes along. A little preparation upfront can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and stress-free home-buying experience. In this market, buyers have to move really quickly, which can be overwhelming, so the more work done up front, the less stressful the contract phase of buying will be.
How have you seen the local market change in the past few years, and what trends should buyers and sellers be aware of?
It’s no surprise that the pandemic caused a major shift in the U.S. real estate market, which had been comparatively slow in 2019. Years of underbuilding, shifting homeownership demographics, and ultra-low interest rates created a perfect storm where demand began to far exceed supply early on in the pandemic. As interest rates then began to rapidly climb in early 2022, many would-be sellers were reluctant to sell, feeling trapped by their low rates.
For the past few years in Rye, we have continued to see prices rise (11% in 2024 year over year), with most homes receiving multiple offers. It’s extremely important to have a great buyer’s agent to help you put together a compelling and winning bid and guide you through the buying process. For sellers, the market is hot and demand is high, but expert guidance on preparation, presentation, and pricing is essential to ensure you get the most the market will bear for your home.
How many children do you have, and what are their ages?
I have three children who are 17, 14, and 12, and they attend Rye Middle and High School! I also have two fur babies, who are 10 and 5 (a corgi and a mutt!).
How do you balance being a mom and a real estate agent? Any tips for other working moms?
It’s always a juggling act for all moms in all careers! Real estate isn’t a 9-to-5 job; we work seven days a week and often find ourselves taking calls or writing offers late at night or while out at events or on vacation. The upside, however, is that we can work around our ‘mom schedule’ and still be present for our kids. Personally, I’m an early bird, so I get a lot done before the kids wake up, then I’m there to make breakfast and handle the school run and pickup. My tip? Try to be around for at least some of the driving to and from activities; some of the best conversations I’ve had with my kids over the years have happened during car rides, with no distractions.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
I’d say the deep connections I build with my clients throughout the buying or selling journey. Selling a home can be an intense, fast-paced process, while working with buyers can sometimes span over a year or more. During that time, I get to know my clients on a truly personal level—their hopes, concerns, and what home really means to them. Being part of such a significant life transition is an honor, and nothing brings me more joy than guiding them through it, reducing stress wherever possible, and ultimately seeing them step into their next chapter with confidence and excitement.
What makes Rye such a desirable place to live for families?
Rye is a top choice for families due to its highly ranked public and private schools, strong sense of community, and small-town charm with big-city access. The schools are ranked among the best in Westchester, and the town is incredibly walkable and bikeable, with a vibrant downtown, great restaurants, and plenty of local shops and boutiques. Just 40 minutes from NYC by train, Rye offers the perfect balance of suburban tranquility and city convenience.
Families love Rye for its outdoor spaces and beaches, including Rye Town Park, the Marshlands Conservancy, and Playland Beach. The town is safe, community-focused, and packed with family-friendly activities, from sports leagues to the Rye Nature Center and Arts Center.
What are some of your favorite spots in the Rye area for dining, shopping, self-care, or family fun?
One of my favorite things to do is walk on the boardwalk at Playland at either sunrise or sunset. We have lots of great restaurants, coffee shops, and health and wellness spots in town as well as many in the surrounding areas. Arora is probably my favorite Rye restaurant, Sunrise Pizza is our go-to Friday night pizza spot, and Sunshine Coffee or The Granola Bar are where I love to meet a friend for a catch-up! I am excited for the NYC restaurant ‘Antique Garage’ to open soon! The Rye Nature Center is great for families with young kids, and as a bit of a history nerd, I love the Rye Historical Society too.
How can potential clients get in touch with you?
Drop me an email at [email protected] or text/call me at 203-321-3027! Happy to talk real estate or anything Rye-related!
We’re incredibly grateful for our amazing community and the wonderful people and places that make it so special. Explore our Blog page for features that spotlight local businesses and more. Looking for something to do in the Rye area? Check out our Local Guides and Calendar pages to discover what’s happening locally and follow along on Instagram for more!