River City Six – Katie Frazell
Meet Katie Frazell, co-owner of G. Lee Homes (www.omahasbuilder.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
We have a new construction and remodeling division. I’m also a licensed realtor at Berkshire Hathaway, so we really offer the full scope when it comes to getting you in your dream home. G. Lee Homes is known for building to a higher standard. We regularly receive compliments from appraisers, agents and inspectors for our attention to detail and quality construction standards. In a time when builders will settle for what is cheaper over what is right, we appreciate these compliments. We’re also very committed to ensuring there isn’t anything overlooked in the budget so there won’t be any costly surprises down the road.
How did you get started in the business?
My husband Greg and I started G. Lee Homes in 2004. We also got married and bought our first home within the same month. It was right after graduating college. In the beginning, I primarily oversaw the financing and business management side of things. My level of involvement has evolved as I balanced raising our kids. It was very important to me that my role as a mom was a priority. When my youngest entered kindergarten, I pursued my real estate license.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Being twice selected as the People’s Choice Award Winner during the Street of Dreams, the region’s most premier home tour event. I’m also very proud of our team. Most of our employees were once a subcontractor or vendor of ours before they asked to work for us. It’s a huge compliment!
Tell us a little about your family.
Greg and I have five children, ages 18, 15, 14, 11, and 6.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Becoming an agent. It’s opened up a lot of opportunities for relationships, and I absolutely love it. It’s not “work” for me. I genuinely love going through the buying and selling process with people. With my experience in the industry, I feel like I’m really helping them.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Watching Husker football, going to the lake, and spending time with my family.
Who inspires you?
My dad and of course, my husband. My dad built his business on creating strong relationships and taught me its value.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Dedicated.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Make-A-Wish Nebraska. My daughter is a Make-A-Wish kid, and I’m on the Young Leaders Council.
What is your favorite movie?
Dirty Dancing.
What is your favorite TV show?
Friends is my all-time favorite, but I’ve been watching Schitt’s Creek recently.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Nicola’s Italian Wine & Fare.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Jesus.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 871-9170; katie@omahasbuilder.com; www.omahasbuilder.com.