"Hard work will get you where you want to be," says Charis Smith. Charis learned that life lesson at an early age when, as one of three concurrent jobs, she worked as a steamer in women's apparel at the Dallas Market Center. She stuck with it and worked her way up, becoming a full-time manager and assistant buyer. "Looking back, I love that I started that way," she says. "It taught me all sides of the business and I was able and willing to do more than the average manager."

After 10 years in the retail industry, Charis decided to transition into real estate sales, a career change that capitalized on her marketing and customer service expertise. "I chose to work at Greenwood King Properties because it's a local, woman-owned business with a 'team-player' atmosphere that I very much respect."

Patience is one of Charis's virtues and being of service to others gives her joy and purpose. She sources her business through a network of personal and professional contacts, social media, hand-written letters, and neighborhood flyers. She especially enjoys helping first-time home buyers find the right neighborhood with the right house, and growing families to sell their home and find "the next step up."

Born in Houston, Charis attended Memorial High School and earned a degree in business management from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi. She has volunteered for several charities including Triumph Over Kid Cancer and the American Cancer Society. When not working, Charis enjoys sewing, home design projects, time with her family and friends, and yoga and other physical activities.