Realty Works is a third generation, family owned Lincoln business originally founded in 1957. Matt Kirkland is currently the Vice President of Realty Works, in addition to his role as a Realtor with the company.
Tell me a little about your business. – Realty Works is a real estate company owned by my wife Jennifer Kirkland. We specialize in residential property management and real estate sales representing both buyers and sellers. We both were born and raised in Lincoln and love helping our fellow Lincolnites find new homes for their families.
How did you get started in the business? – In 2002, I earned my real estate salesperson’s license when Jennifer and I were still living in Kansas City. We knew we were going to be moving back to Lincoln and getting into the family business, we just weren’t sure when.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – I’ve been in sales my whole career and have wanted to ‘have my own business’ for many years. I guess finding the courage to make the leap and go into business for myself.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I find satisfaction every time I help a client. All interactions make a difference in someone’s life no matter how big or small. I love interacting with people, and try to find importance in all of my achievements.
Tell me a little about your family. – I have four awesome children: Patrick, Kaley, Charlie and Ted. We are a busy family for sure. My wife Jennifer and I have been married since 2001.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – No doubt it was somehow convincing my wife Jennifer that I was a keeper.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Day off? I’m in real estate, what’s a day off? No, I like to spend time with the family, watch a little baseball or football and play a round of golf when I can.
What are you the most proud of? – I am very proud of my family and of our growing real estate company.
Which talent would you most like to have? – I would have loved to have been a rock star, but I have neither the musical talent nor the courage to pursue my love for music.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I love working with children and do some volunteer youth sports coaching every year. We are members of many industry organizations including The Real Estate Owners and Managers Association of Lincoln, National Association of Realtors, Nebraska Realtors Association, Realtors Association of Lincoln, LIBA and The East Lincoln Business Association.
What is your favorite movie? – I am very easily entertained. I love the classic comedies like Caddy Shack and Animal House. I am also a big Star Wars geek.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – I love the locals! Valentino’s, Runza, Misty’s, Doozy’s, and Yia Yia’s to name a few.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Bono. If I put anyone else here, all of my family and friends will immediately know that I am not being truthful!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – At (402) 483-1214, via email at matt@realtyworksne.com, or visit www.realtyworksne.com.