It was 2004 when Maryann Ries decided to do something entrepreneurial and start her own business. After 18 years in sales and marketing for the consumer packaged goods industry, it was time to make a change. “I went to a career coach who suggested I prioritize the most important things I wanted in my next career,” Maryann recalls. “He asked me to take the list to ten people who knew me, cared abou
t me and wanted to see me succeed, and ask them what they thought I should do next.” All ten suggested residential real estate when they read the list that included flexibility, helping people, project orientation, making a difference in the lives of others and using the skill set I had developed in a way that would make a difference.” One of the people she spoke to was an agent herself, who called her manager immediately to set up a meeting that afternoon. He gave her advice on how to get started, and the rest is history. So thriving, in fact, she needed to take on another agent. “At the time my husband, Steve, was going through a career transition so I asked him to help me out while he was searching for what his next career would be.” The two continued to grow the business before Maryann was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012. “During treatment, I worked from my couch a lot while he went out and met with clients,” Maryann said. It was at that time that Steve halted his search for other job opportunities, and together, they formed The Ries Team with Keller Williams. Serving greater Cincinnati as well as Northern Kentucky, Maryann has found great success and satisfaction in assisting clients in what is often the most challenging time of their lives. “I love that I can make an impact on someone’s life,” saysMaryann. “I really believe real estate is 50%psychology and 50% business, and the psychology aspect is a very important part of the trans -action. This is someone’s home we’re talking about and it can be emotional. Our job is to reduce the amount of stress and anxiety for everyone while keeping everything on task to make it a smooth transaction.”
Maryann credits a large part of their success to the business and marketing experience she and Steve possess. “We both have extensive business back -grounds so the level of business acumen is something many others don’t have.” In addition, the manner in which her team works together to create a seamless transaction is something her clients greatly appreciate. “When one person isn’t available, there is always someone else who can step in to help. We strive to go above and beyond any of our clients’ past experiences with real estate.”
Outside the office, Maryann enjoys snow skiing and traveling, especially to their vacation home in Colorado. She is active in volunteering within her church and community, serving on the City of Cincinnati Community Council and supporting organizations such as Boys Hope Girls Hope, Pink Ribbon Survivor’s Circle and Barrett Center. “Our philosophy for our business and our personal life is, to whom much is given, much is expected. When someone gives us the opportunity to market and sell their home, we want to exceed their expectations. We’ve been so blessed with amazing clients and we want to make sure we always pay it forward.”
