Julie Winger’s path to real estate was far from linear, marked by a journey through various professions before ultimately embracing the career she long resisted. Despite growing up with a mother who was a pioneering Realtor in Denver, Julie was determined to forge her own path.

 

"I never wanted to be a Realtor," Julie recalls. "My mom, Nancy Morgan, got her license in 1967, and I saw firsthand how consuming and stressful it could be. I vowed never to follow in her footsteps."

 

After graduating from Manual High School, Julie pursued a degree in Music Business and Audio Engineering at UCD, dreaming of working for the Rolling Stones. She began her career as a sound technician at The Denver Center Theater, working under Bruce Odland during the company’s thrilling early seasons.

 

Julie then moved to The Mercury Café, a central hub of Denver's vibrant local music scene in the ‘80s. National acts like X, The Dead Kennedys, and Leon Redbone performed there. It was here she met her husband Nate, who was part of a local band with his brothers. Together, they moved to LA, where Julie continued her career in the arts, acting in films like “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles” and TV shows such as The Young and The Restless.

 

Fast forward to Julie’s return to Denver with her young son, where she struggled to find stable work as an actress. After brief stints in sales and the mortgage business, she finally heeded her mother’s long-standing advice to get her real estate license. “It could be kind of like a family business,” Julie thought.

 

Julie started her real estate career at Devonshire, where her mother worked. Despite the challenging market conditions post-9/11, she persevered. “My first year was very difficult,” Julie admits. “I wanted to make my own way and build my own business.”

 

With support from her colleagues and a dedicated managing broker, Julie found her footing. By her fifth year, she was thriving. However, the 2008 recession presented new challenges, teaching her valuable lessons about financial preparedness.

 

Julie’s approach to real estate is grounded in service rather than sales. "I’m not sales-focused. My philosophy is that being a Realtor is a service job. I aim to help, guide, and problem solve for my clients, rather than trying to ‘get’ them to buy or sell."

 

Volunteering has been a cornerstone of Julie’s success, allowing her to build a strong network while contributing to her community. “I wasn’t volunteering to build a sphere, but to be involved in my son’s life and the community,” Julie says. Her leadership roles and consistent presence proved her to be reliable and capable, indirectly boosting her real estate business.

 

Julie’s deep roots in Colorado, dating back to her great-grandfather who ran the general store at The Tomboy Mine in Telluride, have always influenced her sense of community. Her family’s long history in Denver, including her grandparents who built homes in the city, reinforced her desire to raise her son there.

 

Reflecting on her career, Julie acknowledges the influence of her upbringing. “Real estate is in my DNA,” she says. “I grew up around it 24/7.” Many Realtors in Denver share similar backgrounds, following in their parents’ footsteps into the business.

 

The real estate community in Denver is one Julie deeply appreciates. “Our Realtor community in Denver and Colorado is incredible. There’s so much knowledge, connection, and cooperation.”

 

Julie’s gratitude extends to her company, Kentwood Real Estate, where she finds continuous support and resources. “Kentwood is constantly working at bringing our agents the best tools for success,” she notes. Julie eventually teamed up with her mom at Kentwood, co-listing several iconic homes before her mom retired.

 

Julie’s son, Billy, now 32, is an actor and musician in LA. Helping Billy’s former classmates with their real estate needs is a special joy for her. She also cherishes her rescue dogs, Roy and Georgie-Boy.

 

In addition to real estate, Julie remains active in the arts, attending local theater, enjoying music, and taking classes for fun. She loves movies and, as a SAG member, voting for the SAG Awards. Her philanthropic efforts focus on animal welfare, environmental causes, and children’s support, reflecting her commitment to the community.

 

“Success to me means having meaningful work, correct motives, time for creative pursuits and relationships with loved ones, and a peaceful heart,” Julie reflects. “I strive to be authentic in my approach to life and work, and to be of service. I feel truly grateful for my career in real estate.”

 

From her diverse career beginnings in the arts and music to becoming a trusted real estate professional, Julie Winger’s journey is a testament to finding one's true calling despite initial reluctance. Her deep connection to Denver, dedication to her clients, and commitment to community involvement illustrate a life led with purpose and passion.