I started with an entrepreneurial spirit and a love for business. My sensitivity, passion for human connection, and eye for problem-solving led me to a career that brings all my interests together. 
 
After years of accumulated experience in a range of industries, I found a job where I excel because of that diverse background. It’s awe-inspiring to see the dots of my life come together.  
 
I grew up among the saguaro cacti in Tucson, Arizona, and was drawn early on to singing, guitar, and piano. In college, I studied Business Management with an emphasis on Hotel Restaurant Management, paying my tuition through some scholarships and performance gigs. I worked as a singing cocktail waitress and as the weekend entertainment at a Mexican restaurant. These experiences were fun and proved that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. 
 
 I got married right after college. We moved to California, where I started my career as a manager at Marriott Hotels, taking us to Phoenix, AZ and back to Sacramento to work with La Quinta Inns as an Area Sales Manager. I spent nine years in the hotel industry, overseeing daily operations—including housekeeping, restaurant management, front desk management, and sales. After my daughters, Lindsey and Claire, were born, my priorities shifted. I wanted to work from home in a less stressful job, so I left the hotel industry and began a new chapter as a cosmetic consultant with Mary Kay. I was able to build a successful career, eventually becoming a senior sales director, and working as a consultant for them until this day. 
 
 We moved to Gig Harbor, Washington, in 2003 to be closer to my family. I started a new venture by publishing a local magazine that promoted small businesses and community members. The magazine allowed me to connect deeply with business owners and local residents, listen to their inspiring stories, and host events with local establishments. Small businesses have a special place in my heart –- I believe that if we all opted to hire small businesses, our economy would be stronger.  
 
 Meanwhile, I developed another business on the side. I had been helping friends sell items on eBay and Craigslist, and word spread quickly. People who didn’t know what to do with their belongings, often discarding items that could be sold or donated, began to contact me. I started organizing estate and garage sales to clear out homes, donating unsold items. This service became a full-fledged business, and real estate agents began referring their clients to me for my efficient approach. I developed an LLC and website called “Real Estate Furniture Exchange” that is widely known in WA, with a goal of expanding nationwide.  
 
 
As I entered the real estate industry, my husband and I divorced. For the first time in years, I was on my own, needing a job that could fully support me. Real estate felt like a natural step forward; I knew I could bring my sales, marketing, and leadership experience to my new role as a REALTOR®. The pivot was at first challenging since it’s a commission-based job with no guarantee of a paycheck. I had to learn budgeting skills and time management, but my strong work ethic paid off. I fell in love with the job –– every day is different, and I love that variety. 
 
Becoming a real estate agent was the culmination of everything I’d done so far; I drew on my background in hotel management, sales, and the sensitivity to people gained from performance and storytelling. I believe every career and experience, even from a young age, adds up to create the perfect career for you. All my past experiences have led me to excel as a REALTOR® today.  
 
 
In my free time, I play piano, sing, paddle board, hike, and waterski. I spend time with friends and family whenever possible, including some intense Scrabble games with my 84-year-old mother! And we must not leave out my dog, Sophie, who is my roommate and running buddy every morning! 
 
I’ve walked alongside clients through significant life changes, supporting them through every up and down. I enjoy navigating the real estate journey together and celebrating a successful sale. Because I truly care about my clients, I put myself in their shoes to understand their perspectives and provide exceptional support. 
 
Communication is key, so I’m always accessible and respond promptly. I also offer a downsizing service to help clients clear out homes before listing. My team will sell and donate items, ensuring the house is ready for staging without unnecessary disposal or storage expenses. After 21 years in Washington, I have a strong local network of reliable referral partners, including general contractors, plumbers, electricians, photographers, stagers, and more, to meet all my clients’ needs. I also excel at determining simple and effective solutions that save my clients time and money. For example, sometimes it doesn’t make sense to flip a house with extensive changes, like repainting or lighting updates, when a good cleaning and appropriate pricing are all that’s needed to complete the sale. I’m the kind of REALTOR® who seeks elegantly simple solutions. 
 
Sincerely, 
 
 
 
Leslie Fleming 
Real Estate Services 
Broker-Associate 
Call/Text (253) 225-5578 
leslie@unitedpsw.com 
leslieflemingREservices.com