Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennie Konomos.
Hi Jennie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born and raised in Kansas City, and I’ve called it home for more than 40 years. Growing up, my mom was a real estate agent involved in community service through the Junior League, and my dad worked in several businesses, including construction. Their careers gave me early exposure to the worlds of building, planning, and real estate—and an understanding of how personal a home can be.
After college, I began my professional life as an elementary school teacher. It was a natural fit for my desire to help others, my patience, and my willingness to go above and beyond to make a difference. But after years in the classroom, I found myself burning out and ready for a new chapter.
Around this time, I began considering real estate—the same path my sister had chosen and thrived in. Then life steered me further in that direction. My husband’s grandparents, whom I adored, began experiencing significant health challenges. I stepped into the role of advocate, navigator, and caretaker as we worked through the transitions many families face in the aging process. That experience opened my eyes to a real need in our community: compassionate support, guidance, and advocacy for older adults and the people who love them.
After earning my real estate license and working with a variety of clients, I discovered that my heart is with older adults and their families. These clients often face emotional, overwhelming decisions—aging in place, downsizing, or selling a longtime family home. I welcome them warmly, listen closely, connect them with trusted resources, and pitch in wherever I can. My goal is always to reduce stress, provide clarity, and offer steady, compassionate guidance throughout their journey whether it is an immediate need or a years long process.
If you or someone you know could benefit from this kind of support, it would be my honor to help them navigate this important stage of life with confidence and care.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In my teaching career, I often became frustrated by how much was out of my control—policies, resources, and circumstances that affected my students but that I couldn’t change. That lack of autonomy eventually wore on me. One of the things I appreciate most about real estate is the ability to run my own business, create my own model of service, and make decisions that directly impact the clients I care about.
So far, I’ve felt both comfortable and confident supporting families through aging in place, downsizing, or selling a longtime family home. I do this either through personal guidance or by connecting them with trusted community resources. But that doesn’t mean the work is without challenges.
The biggest struggles often arise when planning—especially financial planning—hasn’t been done in advance. When families are forced to make major housing and care decisions quickly, without a roadmap, the process can become far more stressful and emotionally taxing. It can be difficult, but it’s never impossible. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to meeting clients where they are, helping them navigate whatever obstacles arise, and offering steady, compassionate support even in the toughest moments.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I work with Compass Realty Group, and I truly love being part of this company. Compass offers exceptional tools and programs that support both agents and clients. For example, Compass Concierge provides funding to help sellers make updates or improvements before listing, and the Compass One Dashboard gives clients a single, easy-to-use hub for communication, documents, home searches, task lists, and more. We’re also given the flexibility to market each property in the way that best fits the client’s needs.
While I proudly dedicate myself to every buyer and seller I work with, my heart is especially with clients preparing to sell a longtime family home. That process can be emotional and overwhelming, with many steps along the way. I truly enjoy guiding these clients, reducing stress, and helping them and their families focus on what matters most during this transition. My deep commitment, empathy, and understanding of the challenges older adults and their families face is what sets me apart from agents who may not specialize in this type of work or share this passion. But this commitment and understanding is something I bring to every client and every deal.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Kansas City offers something for everyone, with a variety of distinct neighborhoods and experiences. I especially love the food scene and the exciting urban renewal happening in the city. But after 41 years here, what stands out most to me are the people. There’s a unique blend of Midwest friendliness, politeness, and humility that makes Kansas City feel truly special.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.compass.com/agents/jennie-konomos/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniekcompass/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Jennie-Konomos-100086183065405/
