Whether she's fly fishing in Crested Butte, Colorado, or fostering a rescue dog, Kristi Maxwell is the kind of person who gives everything her all. She learned early on that anything is possible when you set goals and put forth your maximum effort, and later applied this concept to her college work, graduating from UT Austin with honors and a business degree in petroleum land management.

Now, as a Realtor with Kuper Sotheby's International Realty, it's only natural that Maxwell uses her business skills and determination to help buyers search for that perfect home or sellers find that ideal buyer for their residence.

Combining her longtime San Antonio knowledge with a friendly, down-to-earth style, plus solid organizational and planning expertise, Maxwell strives for the absolute best results for her clients. She understands the importance of timely communication, keeping her clients up to date on all transaction developments so they can stay more relaxed and ready to make sound decisions when necessary. Another major part of Maxwell's "maximum effort" approach is her attention to detail, and she does what she can to keep everything on track and on schedule, ensuring her clients enjoy a smooth and stress-free transaction.

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

CultureMap: What inspires you to do what you do?

Kristi Maxwell: Of course I'm inspired by those I help. I had wonderful role models! I am the daughter of an Air Force pilot, who met my mother on a blind date while briefly here in San Antonio for training. He exited the military and he and mom ultimately settled here, had three daughters, and were married for 55 years.

My mother's story is intriguing: She immigrated from the Philippines when she was 15 years old. When I was young, she attended law school, graduated first in her class, and ultimately became one of the first female partners at a major law firm. She chose to focus her law career on helping those less fortunate. It is from my parents that I learned a strong work ethic, giving back to the community, and always doing the very best I can.

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

KM: Make two lists: The first is a "must-have" list and the second is a "wish it has, but not a deal-killer list." One list per family, so everyone is forced to negotiate their priorities. It really helps buyers focus on the "we" and not the "me."

CM: And advice to those who are selling?

KM: If you listen to me regarding what is needed to sell your house, including make-ready projects and best price strategy, your home will sell. We all have to do our part.

CM: Sum up San Antonio in three words.

KM: Tacos, bluebonnets, generous.

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

KM: Keeping a transaction together. Getting a home under contract is not the hardest part of a real estate agent's job — keeping it under contract is where the difference between real estate agents' skills quickly becomes evident. My 18-plus years of real estate experience, advanced mediation training, and ability to be hyper-focused with details have allowed me to become an expert negotiator and problem-solver.

CM: What's one thing people might not know about you?

KM: My love for a "good quest." I collect Majolic, a 19th century earthenware modeled in naturalistic shapes and glazed in lively colors. I also love antique quilts. Both of these represent items once owned by families long ago. Much like our lives, each piece has its own history and story.

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

KM: I get to make the phone call to my client and say, "you got the house!" There is nothing better than that call, especially if my client is a first-time homebuyer. Who forgets their very first house? That’s right, no one! So being able to share that special moment in someone's life is priceless and makes for a very good day.

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See Kristi Maxwell's latest listings here, or contact her at 210-288-6211 or kristi.maxwell@kupersir.com.