Hickman helps people reach real estate goals

When Donna Hickman originally pursued a career in office equipment sales, she had not considered becoming involved in the real estate industry until she sold her home one day.

“I watched my agent sell my house and thought that was something I’d like to do, so I got into it,” said Hickman.

She became a licensed real estate agent in 1978 and went on to earn her broker’s license in 1993.

Hickman is pleased to have two significant areas of expertise: horse property and real estate for senior living.

“I love to sell horse property,” she said. “I know what horses need.”

With three horses of her own, Hickman is more than competent in searching for the right equine site.

In looking for horse property, Hickman recommends finding acreage with level areas. Depending on how large or small a buyer wants to go, Hickman assists them in finding a property with a barn, pasture and arena.

According to Hickman, if a property site with usable land has been found but does not have existing horse facilities, Hickman can help potential buyers create the perfect equine haven.

On a personal level, Hickman is more attracted to horse properties that are away from high-volume traffic. “Though horses can get used to the noise,” she said, “I think the animals still find it disturbing.”

It doesn’t take long to see that Hickman has a soft spot for horses, as her very own trusty steeds are rescue animals. “I got into horses very late in life, after I raised my family,” she explained. “Horses are so sweet and such a joy.”

Hickman said her horses have a tendency to whinny when they see her car motoring up the pathway. “They are wonderful creatures and they give back a lot of love.” And Hickman would be remiss is she did not place her beloved 90-pound rescue dog in this category as well.

As mentioned above, another area of expertise Hickman has is as a Senior Real Estate Specialist. Additional education gave her this designation, where she learned the more detailed process of what seniors are interested in and what concerns they have.

“Seniors are usually sizing down,” said Hickman. “They want to be close to shopping, don’t want to drive long distances, want to be close to family, be near medical facilities and are on a fixed income.”

Hickman gets to the heart of the matter with her senior clientele, understanding their needs and finding the right residential property in an efficient way.

Hickman has a great deal of experience in the real estate industry, remains a true people person and has incredible patience with her clients. “I really like to find the proper property for everyone; it’s my favorite part of the job.”

Hickman is pleased to be working with Willis Allen because her business philosophy is in sync with their mission. “Willis Allen has a lot of integrity and is client-oriented.”

When not busy with business dealings, Hickman receives happiness from being with her family, horses, and dog. “I love helping out with my grandkids and being with my animals. It’s my thing.”

Donna Hickman can be reached by calling Willis-Allen at (760) 723-2353 or at (951) 201-5786.