Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Nicole Baker

Nicole Baker shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Nicole, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something outside of work that’s brought me joy lately is getting married to the love of my life after 8.5 years of dating. He’s truly my soulmate, and I can’t imagine life without him. To top it all off, we just bought our second home together, and I feel incredibly blessed that God has given me the opportunities to experience this season of love, growth, and new beginnings.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Nicole Baker soon to be Braisted (when I get around to changing my last name!) — an Arizona native, second-generation Realtor, and your go-to girl for all things moving to Phoenix. I specialize in helping people relocate to the Phoenix suburbs. My goal? To make moving feel less overwhelming and way more exciting.

After relocating to Denver and then back again to Arizona myself, I know firsthand the emotional (and logistical) rollercoaster that comes with uprooting your life. That’s why I focus on educating my clients, sharing real, honest insights, and keeping the whole process as stress-free as possible — with a sprinkle of sarcasm, iced coffee, and real estate knowledge.

Most of my clients find me through social media — YouTube, Instagram, TikTok — where I share neighborhood tours, relocation tips, and behind-the-scenes of what it’s really like to buy or sell a home here.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
Without a doubt, my parents. My dad busts his butt every single day and never complains — even in 115° Arizona heat. My mom is my mentor and the one who inspired me to become a Realtor. I wouldn’t be close to the agent I am without her.

Together, they taught me that no dream is too big and that I’m capable of creating any life I want if I’m willing to work for it. I carry those lessons with me every day — and more than anything, I hope I can pass them on to my own kids one day.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Probably more times than I’d like to admit! One of the hardest seasons was when I moved to Denver — trying to build a brand-new real estate business from scratch was brutal. I eventually joined a brokerage and team that felt like the right fit… until I was “let go” just days before Christmas because the lead agent didn’t think I was trying hard enough.

It was crushing — but looking back, it was the biggest blessing. It pushed me to keep going on my own terms. I continued to create content on social media consistently, even when no one was watching. And after a year of posting consistently and 3 months after being “let go”, I finally closed my first YouTube client!

That moment meant everything. It was proof that the hard work was worth it. Couldn’t have done it without my faith in God.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. I’m exactly who I am online, in real life and in business. What you see is what you get. I know I’m not for everyone, but if you’re for everyone, you’re for no one. I’d rather attract the right people by being real than try to please the wrong ones by pretending.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What will you regret not doing? 
I will never regret the hard work and consistency I had to dedicate to posting on social media. My clients who find me online are my biggest blessing!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Nicole.beckygarcia.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolebraistedrealtor?igsh=MW1qbGJ0aTNqYmV4NA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Av6ffttjy/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: Zillow – https://www.zillow.com/profile/nicole2766