Silicon Valley is a unique and wonderful place to live. With year-round comfortable weather, countless amenities, top schools, and ample professional opportunities, in many ways, it’s a paradise. However, there is one major challenge: housing costs are astronomical, meaning the dream of homeownership is out of reach for many.

Years ago, Julia Wixted found herself steeped in this predicament.

“Newly married with our young son, [my husband and I] were both working and building careers. There was a point where we seriously considered relocating to another state to purchase a home,” Julia explains. “It was a difficult possibility we found ourselves torn about; we wanted to stay close to family and recognized the unparalleled opportunities our children would have growing up here if we stayed.”

Instead of leaving, Julia and her husband got creative. After much self-education and dedication, they were able to turn their dream into a reality, purchasing a condo in 2017.

“I often share this experience in my business because I want others to know that anything is possible,” Julia continues. “After purchasing our first home, I witnessed firsthand how empowering homeownership is for families. It was then that I decided I wanted to help others achieve the same financial security and generational wealth building through real estate here in Silicon Valley.”

Growing up in a military family, Julia lived in several places, but Santa Clara always felt like home. It’s where the foundational years of her childhood unfolded and where her parents still live today.

“My parents kept me busy and instilled in me, from a young age, the belief that anything is possible if you work hard, approach the world with a good heart and intentions, and contribute to positively impacting the community you are part of,” Julia says. “These values are still deeply ingrained in me today, and I strive to pass them down to my children and those around me.”

Julia graduated from Santa Clara High School and earned a degree in finance from San Jose State University. Before beginning her career in real estate in 2021, she worked in the banking industry. During that time, she held various positions, including Senior Loan Specialist, underwriting and processing residential mortgages.

In 2017, Julia’s condo purchase inspired her to consider a career in real estate. She finally had the chance to experience the benefits of homeownership and wanted to share that with others. Simultaneously, she recognized she lacked professional guidance while purchasing her condo and wanted to help others avoid the same experience.

“We didn't realize at the time that we could have had our own representation involved in the purchase… we were just working directly with the builder,” Julia explains. “Navigating the purchase without the knowledge and expertise of a real estate professional was extremely stressful. I knew I had the background to bring value to clients in real estate and wanted to prioritize and personalize the experience in the best way possible.”

Julia has been selling real estate for three years. Her business has steadily grown, making her one of the fastest-rising agents in the Bay area. She’s currently with Rainmaker Real Estate with Side.

Julia is especially grateful for the chance to positively impact the lives of others. She hopes that her work can make positive ripples in the community she lives in and serves.

“I have the opportunity to assist individuals and families during some of the most significant and challenging moments in their lives as they navigate buying and selling real estate. Witnessing the impact this has on their lives, I never take for granted the trust my clients place in me,” she shares. “Every client I work with is more than just a client to me. I take immense pride in getting to know and understand the people and families I work with on a personal level.”

When she’s not working, you’ll find Julia with her family. She and her husband, Erik, have two children, Ryan and Elyse. Her parents and sister also live locally.

“Everything I have gone through and experienced has shaped me into who I am today,” Julia shares. “This encompasses all the successes, failures, and pivotal moments. As I navigate life, raise my family, and develop my real estate business while contributing to the community, I acknowledge that all that lies ahead will further mold me into the person I am meant to be. I am eager and excited for the journey ahead.”