While Amy Fries can’t read your mind, chances are, she will be able to understand your emotions better than most. Three years after first gracing the pages of Real Producers, Amy has firmly established herself in the Lincoln real estate market after transitioning from a seasoned psychologist to a dynamic REALTOR at Woods Bros.

"Real estate, much like psychology, is deeply personal. It's about understanding people, their needs, their fears, and their dreams," Amy explains. “With my background, I'm equipped to guide my clients through these high-stress decisions not just rationally, but empathetically and with sensitivity.”

 

Born and raised in the quaint town of Cairo, Nebraska, (population: less than 800), Amy pursued higher education at Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she ran track while delving into the field of psychology and sociology to earn her undergraduate degree. She continued her studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she obtained both her master’s and doctorate degrees in psychology.

Amy then dedicated the next decade of her career to helping others through psychotherapy, a role that equipped her with unique insights into human emotions — a skill she finds invaluable in real estate.

"I think when buying or selling a home, there are a lot of emotions in that huge decision. Being able to understand how that impacts people’s decisions, especially in residential, is critical,” she points out.

After suddenly landing at a difficult emotional and career crossroads herself, and in need of direction, a good friend suggested to Amy that she give real estate a chance.

“I had a drastic turn of events, and knew enough about myself that working an 8-5 job would kill my soul,” she recalls.

Amy decided to make the big leap into the business in June of 2019 with the help of retiring agent Russ Quick, who introduced her to the nuances of the industry.

"Working with Russ for six months gave me a solid foundation, and observing the successful women around me in the industry shaped the Realtor I wanted to become," she reflects.

 

Since 2019, Amy has quickly risen through the ranks, supported by her meticulous assistant, Ashlee Gordon, and diligent transaction coordinator, Manette Kidney. Last year alone, Amy closed 50 transactions totaling north of $15 million in sales volume and is on track to match or exceed those totals in 2024.

“I feel like it takes a village to be successful in this industry,” Amy chuckles. “Ashlee has been a godsend in helping keep me organized and Manette doesn’t miss a thing. They both really help make sure my contracts are complete and compliant while I’m client-facing.” Amy also credits her work with Jennifer Hagan of Destination Homes as a major factor in her success. “Jen and I love working together and we are proud of how we elevate one another’s business”.

Amy continues to stand out with her commitment to ethics and relationship-building, while also being recognized for these attributes by her colleagues. She was honored with Real Producers’ Realtor on the Rise for 2022, and Office Salesperson of the Year for 2023. Additionally, Amy has received the Woods Bros Award of Excellence and has been a member of the Chairman’s Club for both 2022 and 2023. Despite all of these impressive recognitions though, the accolade that resonates most deeply with her is the "Realtors Realtor" award she received at the RP Gala last year.

“I truly care about those I represent, but I also truly care about my professional relationships,” Amy emphasizes. “The Realtors’ Realtor award meant so much to me because this work is very collaborative. If we can find common ground and still be respectful and kind to each other, we can work together to get things done and serve  our clients well, too.”

Amy readily offers straightforward advice to newcomers in the industry, emphasizing the value of persistence and understanding the human side of transactions.

"Real estate is a grind," Amy remarks candidly. “Find someone you admire in the industry and watch them — how do they represent themselves? How much do they work? And how do they interact with other agents and clients?”

 

Outside of work, Amy’s world revolves around her family life. Married for over 20 years to her wonderful husband, Judd, she is a devoted mother to two active boys, Carter and Davis.  

Whether it’s watching basketball games or enjoying time together at their getaway cabin, Amy’s family is her anchor. Not to forget their adorable pet cockapoo, Bogey, who keeps the family entertained and theoretically safe.

“Bogey is the cutest dog on the planet and is currently trying to protect our yard from an adorable family of foxes that have made a den under our deck (a mama and four kits),” Amy smiles.

In her spare time, Amy prefers to stay active with hobbies like working out, particularly lifting and kickboxing, which she describes as her forms of therapy.

As for the future, Amy sees herself continuing to excel in real estate, but never at the expense of her loved ones.

“I want my kids to see me work really hard, but I also want to show up to their games and activities,” Amy concludes. “Maintaining a balance of work and family is critical for me, that’s why it’s been so helpful to have Ashlee and Manette on board. I want to be a present parent in life while still providing terrific service to my clients and making friends along the way.

"Some of the greatest people I’ve ever met in my life are in real estate.”