Chasing my dream has taught me that it’s never too late to change, grow, or start over. I’ve learned what’s possible when you trust yourself, stay open to learning, and keep moving forward—no matter where you’re starting from.

 

When COVID shut everything down, I realized it was time to finally make a change. I’ve been a hairstylist for 35 years. It was my dream job, starting as young as 10 years old sweeping the salon floor. I loved working with people and building those lifelong relationships. But when COVID happened, I realized it was the opportunity to finally try something I’d been wanting to do for years: real estate.

 

The dream had always been there, but the timing was never quite right. For the better part of my life, I have been a single mom of three. My children were just 5, 6 and 15 when their father passed. I worked long hours in the salon to give them everything—charter schools, private schools, boarding schools and, through their academic successes, getting full scholarships to college. Whatever they wanted, I made it happen. Whatever it took, I figured it out.

 

My work ethic came from watching my parents. They didn’t have high-paying jobs; both were social workers, but they were smart, educated, and resourceful. When I was 10, they bought a brownstone through a city program. It cost $10,000, and it was a total fixer upper. I remember walking in with my mom and seeing the stairs basically falling apart. But they rehabbed the whole place and created something lasting. That house changed the trajectory of our family. Even after my father passed when I was just a freshman in high school and my brother was in junior high, my mother continued to maintain it, rent out units, and even run a bed and breakfast. The impact that single investment made left a lasting impression on me, leading me to not be afraid to take on the same challenge at age 31, when I purchased a complete fixer-upper which I still reside in today. 

 

When I finally stepped into real estate, all my past experiences came with me—the hustle, the resilience, and a deep understanding of what owning property can mean to shape generations. My background as a hairstylist gave me years of practice connecting with people, listening closely, and building trust, which became the foundation of my real estate business. In the beginning, during the fast-paced COVID market, I was learning the industry while navigating bidding wars and writing offer after offer for clients. It was intense, but I stayed committed and leaned on my skills. 

 

Over the years, I’ve helped people buy their first homes, supported upgraders, downsizers, and investors, and worked with clients facing more difficult situations. As the in-house REALTOR® for Justice 4 Housing, I help people reentering society after incarceration to secure stable housing, and I also work with several local shelters to assist individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness. Supporting people through all stages of life has taught me the value of patience, empathy, and meeting people where they are. I love what I do and am grateful for every person who has entrusted me to guide them into the next chapter.

 

From my own journey and the many stories I’ve been able to be a part of, I’ve learned that growth and change don’t have a deadline. Taking a new path—whether at 25 or 53—can truly change your life. In this chapter of my life, I’ve been able to focus on myself and follow my dreams helping people navigate major transitions and life changes. I love what I do and am proud of myself for taking that leap. 

 

Outside of work, I make time for self-care because it allows me to be my best self! I love to travel and spend time near the

 water whenever I can, even working from the beach when the weather’s right. Taking those moments to reset helps me stay grounded and focused so I can continue showing up 100% for the people I work with and support.

 

Every client deserves to be treated with care, no matter where they are in the process or what their budget looks like. Whether it’s a rental, a first home, or a million-dollar listing, I bring the same level of respect and professionalism to every transaction. Taking the time to understand each person’s goals, concerns, and timeline is important to me because no two paths are the same. This work isn’t about quick deals—it’s about building trust and helping people feel supported through a major life decision.

 

Being hands-on is a key part of how I work. Instead of just sending clients to open houses, I go with them, walk through the property, and listen closely to what matters most to them. That allows me to craft strong, personal offers that truly reflect their voice. Communication stays clear and consistent throughout, and I make sure people feel informed and empowered at every step. Many clients stay connected long after closing, and I’m honored when they refer friends and family, knowing I’ll give them the same care and commitment!

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Liana Williams

REALTOR®

Contact (617) 594-2577

liana@forthillbrokerage.com

lwilliams.forthillbrokerage.com