The value of a native's knowledge can't be stressed enough, and Kuper Sotheby's International Realty's Whitney Harper has the experience of a true Hill Country local. She spent her childhood and early adult years on her family's ranch in the heart of Canyon Lake's Sattler, known as the original Sattler homestead. Harper herself is a descendant of Wilhelm Sattler, so the rich history of the Texas Hill Country possesses an even deeper charm for her that many of her clients find contagious.

Many years of self-marketing and big smiling paid off when Harper dove head-first into a career in real estate. Her previous experience in marketing and customer care are evident in every interaction, as Harper always puts her clients and their needs first.

"I like houses, and I love people," she says. "Helping others feel 'at home' is one of my greatest pleasures in life."

We chatted with Harper to find out more about her work and what drives her.

CultureMap: What inspires you to do what you do?

Whitney Harper: My inspiration comes from my two stepdaughters, Isis and Ariel. I want to not only provide a comfortable life for them, but also set the same standard that my mother and grandmother set for me. Each day I wake up with the intention to care about the joy of others, speak honestly in a pleasing tone, and build relationships with like-hearted people while showing kindness to those who aren't yet. Showing those girls the charm of a life lived on-purpose is what inspires me.

CM: What's one piece of advice you'd give to people looking for their dream home?

WH: The first step to finding your dream home is dreaming it! It is so helpful to truly put yourself in a pretend state and imagine what your home would be like and where it would be. Playing pretend can be transformative. Once you're there, be clear about your top must-haves, absolute deal breakers, and the true "why" that's driving you to this purchase.

CM: And advice to those who are selling?

WH: Be open to changing things up in the home you are selling. Repainting the interior a neutral color can make a world of difference! You want to be sure that a perfect stranger can feel at home and picture themselves in your house.

CM: Sum up the Hill Country in three words.

WH: Breathtaking, heartwarming, mystifying.

CM: What do you consider your "special skill"?

WH:Connection. Whether it's tuning into buyers' desires in order to see with their eyes as I aid them in their journey home, or easing the troubles of a seller as they seek the ideal candidate as the next steward of their once-beloved home, connection remains the constant theme.

CM: Finish the sentence: "It's a good day when..."

WH: It's a good day when I have made someone's day a little bit brighter.

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See Whitney Harper's latest listings here, or contact her at 512-644-9618 or whitney.harper@sothebysrealty.com.