What inspired you to become a realtor?

I started my career in corporate sales, working for a commercial printer, and I really loved that world — especially the connection and relationship side of sales. I’ve always believed that when you’re a natural salesperson, those skills carry into anything you truly believe in. After I had kids, I chose to stay home and raise them, which was always my priority. Over time, as they grew more independent, it felt like the right moment to return to work. Real estate became a natural transition — it allowed me to step back into sales while still having the flexibility to be present for my family, which was most important to me.

What first drew you to live and work in Hunterdon County, and what continues to inspire you about this community today?

I was born and raised in New Jersey, and even after spending time away — for college, in Northern Virginia, and in New York City — there was always a pull to come back. In my experience, there’s no place quite like the Garden State, with everything it offers from farms to the shore, to its proximity to incredible cities like Philadelphia and New York.

What drew me to Hunterdon County specifically was the small-town feel and the sense of community. It’s the kind of place where you can buy eggs on the side of the road, pick up local honey from someone at church, and where people genuinely look out for one another. There’s a slower pace here, a sense of patience, and a strong foundation of hometown values. It’s a community of like-minded people, and it continues to inspire me every day.

Outside of real estate, where might we find you enjoying a perfect day along The River Loop?

One of the things I’ve loved most about living in Hunterdon County is how many hidden gems there are. Every time you give yourself the chance to go out and explore, you discover something new — from small local shops to tucked-away spots you might not expect. There’s always something that draws you in and makes you want to come back and see what else you might find.

On a perfect day, we love biking along the towpath or spending time on the river tubing. But the truth is, you never really turn off being a realtor. Even on a day out, I find myself noticing the architecture, looking at homes, and remembering the ones I’ve sold. You’re always observing, always thinking about the people in your life, and how a place might fit them — it’s just part of how you see everything.

What do you attribute your success to?

I’ve learned to focus on what matters and not just fill space. Communication is a big part of that — my clients feel comfortable with me, and I’m very honest, but also approachable. A lot of my business has come through referrals, not just from clients I’ve worked with directly, but from their families or people who have come through my open houses and connected with how I work.

It really comes down to personality and trust. The ability to build a relationship quickly, understand what matters to someone, and make them feel confident in the process. Having strong local knowledge and being able to bring real value to my clients is what has ultimately driven my success.

When people choose their home, what are the most important things to keep in mind?

The old saying “location, location, location” really does hold true, but that can mean different things depending on the person. Here in Hunterdon County, it’s about choosing the right town for your lifestyle. If you’re raising a family, you’re looking at the school system, whether public or private, and what opportunities are available for your kids, from sports to community activities. If you’re commuting into New York City, it’s about understanding how you’ll get there and what your overall quality of life will look like being about 60 miles outside the city.

For many, it’s about finding that balance — accessibility, lifestyle, and affordability — which is what originally drew me here. And for buyers who may not be familiar with the area, it’s incredibly important to work with someone who truly knows it. Not just someone nearby, but someone who lives here, understands the nuances of each town, and can guide you toward the right fit based on your individual needs.

If someone wanted to become a realtor, what is the best advice you would give them?

Real estate isn’t for everyone. I think there’s a misconception that it’s easy or that it’s a quick way to make money, but that’s not the reality. While there is flexibility, the most successful realtors are truly available to their clients and committed to the process.

It takes time, dedication, and a deep understanding of the market. Knowing the inventory, staying current, and building strong relationships with other realtors is essential — it’s very much a team effort. There’s always a buyer and a seller, and usually two agents working together to make that happen. Most importantly, you have to really know your community. That foundation is what sets you up for success.

An Interview with Linda Okupski