Allie Beth Allman Realtor Karen Luter has seen a lot of changes in the industry since launching her high-powered real estate business in the early 1980s. Within the first six months, the multi-million dollar producer was named Rookie of the Year and hasn’t stopped since.
You’ve got to marvel at her accomplishments.
“I had my nose to the grindstone all day, every day. You couldn’t pry me away,” she says. It obviously paid off. Look no further than her 100 percent referral-based clientele.
“I’ve never sold a property to anyone who wasn’t thrilled with their home,” she said. “It’s my job to find one that’s just perfect for them.”
While simple in theory, it’s harder than it sounds.
Take, for instance, the over-the-top Douglas Avenue mansion originally owned by Dallas’ quintessential cosmetic queen, Mary Kay Ash. The 12,000-square-foot, $3 million-plus pink palace was no easy sell.
(Writer’s note: Having worked personally for Mary Kay back in the ’80s and ’90s, I have a special affinity for the house — pink quartz toilet, Greek-style pool, and all.)
Karen did what five other Realtors couldn’t.
She got it sold, thanks to perseverance and some creative publicity.
“I’ve never really marketed myself,” she admits. Her real estate expertise has evolved organically, resulting in unique niches of specialization and an impressive portfolio of cumulative market knowledge.
This year, however, marks a change in the way the Allie Beth veteran is running her business. Her grandson, Carson Bryant, has joined her team, adding a timely and valuable technology-based component. With Karen’s encouragement, the Texas Tech business school major became a licensed agent at just 19 years old.
“Learning two markets has been a great experience,” says Bryant.
“I’ve enjoyed studying the statistics, touring properties, and learning more about the building and processes,” Bryant said.
“Real estate is in his DNA,” adds Karen. His mother, Lauren, has been a licensed Realtor since 2006.
Strong roots in the Highland Park community are yet another advantage for the Luter/Bryant team. And as for Bryant’s drive and determination? The Highland Park High School alum credits his years as a wide receiver for the HP Scots, winners of the Texas state championship for three consecutive years.
“Being part of a team that succeeded through intense hard work and discipline provided an irreplaceable sense of accomplishment,” says Bryant. “I plan on taking all that I’ve learned about consistency and focus to my work as a Realtor.”
Mentoring her grandson has been mutually rewarding, according to Karen. There’s a lot they can learn from each other. This fall, the pair will be spending even more time together, with Bryant planning to continue his studies virtually from home.
“It’s energizing to have a young partner,” says Karen. “Our connection has been inspirational in a way I didn’t anticipate.”
