20 Under 40: Kimberly Cocotos
Kimberly Cocotos – REAL ESTATE
Age: 39
Business: Virginia Cook Realtors
High School: Berkner High school
College: Texas Tech University
Community Involvement: Good Shepherd Episcopal School Parents Board Member, Friends of Northaven Trail, Marianne Scruggs Garden Club, Room mother at Preston Hollow Presbyterian, Graduate of MetroTex Leadership Program, Ruth Altshuler Annual Food Drive, Friends of Northaven Trail, Volunteer for the Jonathan’s Place Chance to Soar Annual Luncheon, Chaired the Good Shepherd Episcopal School Annual Carnival twice and VP of Fundraising
Kimberly Cocotos wears many hats, and she wears them all well. Besides being selected as a D Magazine “Best of D” in the real estate category and a top producer at Virginia Cook, Realtors – a goal she set for herself and achieved in five years – she is heavily involved at her children’s schools as a room mom, vice president of fundraising, and even the chairman of the school’s carnival. Cocotos began her career in medical sales at a Fortune 500 company before moving into real estate where she’s continued her education by obtaining her Texas Real Estate Broker License, graduating from the Metrotex Leadership Program, and obtaining her GRI Certification.
What is the best advice you received when beginning your career? Always tell people, thank you! I was lucky enough to have Virginia Cook take me under her wing. She writes some of the best notes you will ever receive in the mail.
What is your business philosophy? Show up, follow up and always do what is right. The rest comes naturally with a little hard work.
What inspires you? Seeing my clients happy and knowing that I got to be a part of finding their home.
If you could tell 16-year-old you anything, what would you say? Buy real estate in the best location as soon as possible and make sure you live abroad at some point.
What is your proudest career accomplishment? The first time I was a top producer. I had set my goal of hitting it before my 5th year in the business. I had a baby during that time which made it a little hard but it all worked out.
What did you learn from your best boss or mentor? I’ve been fortunate enough to have a few bosses that are incredible mentors as well. My first professional job was in medical sales I got to sit at the table with the CEO regularly and learn how they ran a Fortune 500 company. When I started my real estate career Sheila Rice and Virginia Cook guided me. I followed their recommendations and owe my success to their wonderful guidance.
What was your first summer job? I worked at Enzo in Northpark mall selling women’s shoes
What do you love about your community? So much to say! Dallas is a different city than I grew up in. The arts are world class. The city is Always evolving welcoming new residents daily. I love the constant change! The food and shopping are top notch. The people are warm and welcoming. We are centrally located and can get anywhere in the world easily. We have a neighborhood for everyone’s interest and more entertainment options than you can imagine.
Where is the best place for a business power lunch in Park Cities or Preston Hollow? I have to say Hillstones. It is always a great experience with fabulous food and great service.
What is your fondest Park Cities or Preston Hollow memory? I love attending the Park Cities Fourth of July Parade.
Where will we find you enjoying your hard-earned time off? The mountains, NYC, the beach or Texas Hill Country listening to some country music.
What do you want your last meal to be? A fun dinner with my closest friends and family. I don’t think the menu would matter.
What is your favorite color? Cobalt Blue
What fictional world or place would you like to visit? Somewhere tropical with crystal blue water and white sand beaches.
If you could be on a reality TV show, which one would you choose? Southern Charm, the cast always knows how to enjoy the southern culture.
What would your superpower be? Time, I wish I had more time in the day. As well as being able to enjoy my boys longer. They are growing to fast!