Parmenter and Company
We thoroughly enjoy getting to know our members and finding out what makes their businesses tick. It’s even more fascinating when the owner, Cindi Parmenter, is a former member of the Williamson, Inc. team!
Hi Cindi. How long have you lived in the area?
I (thankfully) arrived in the Nashville area in 1984 and Nashville has been home to me for 34 years. I became a single mom in my 30s and have two amazing daughters and sons-in-law and five irresistible grandchildren who live nearby.
What is your business and how/why did you start your business?
Parmenter and Company is a Real Estate firm. I established this company ten years ago to create an agency where I could “park” my real estate license while I focused on other career pursuits, including working at the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber of Commerce and later, Williamson, Inc. About four years ago, one of my daughters, Kate Cortner, who had become a realtor and affiliated with another agency, asked if she could transfer her license to my firm. Things began to change for me shortly after that.
Tell us about the events that led up to where your company is now.
After seven enjoyable and rewarding years at the Chamber, I was ready for a new challenge. I accepted a position at the Nashville Technology Council and worked there for a year. During that time, I was increasingly restless to run my own business again. I watched Kate being very successful as a realtor with a flexible schedule, earning a rewarding income and having fun. One day I just realized that my obvious solution was already in place. It was time for me to join Kate and focus on my real-estate career.
I suppose I should add a bit of the backstory here. I have been an entrepreneur most of my professional life. As a single mom, I founded a corporate housing company, Executive Relocation Services, in 1989 and sold it in 1997. I then built a Retreat Center, Leatherwood Forge, which I ran and sold in 2007. I have had many enriching experiences partnering with other businesses and meeting extraordinary people. I have many stories, of both ups and downs, but I’ll save those for a conversation over coffee with anyone who wants to know more. There is nothing like building something from the ground up, helping others to be successful, and learning along the way…loads of learning along the way.
What is unique about your business (what sets you apart from the rest)?
Buying or selling a home is a significant investment. Still it is much more than that; it is a place where we spend our time living, playing, recharging, entertaining and so much more. You want that place to reflect who you are and to make you feel happy, comfortable and safe. There are as many different features that are important to clients, as there are individual lives and situations. We are passionate about helping each client find that special place that not only meets their needs, but also gives them a sense of “belonging” in a way that compliments who they are. So, we ask tons of questions and we listen. We become their trusted advisor and often we are a mirror for them.
We are a small group of accomplished women who have deep connections in the community. Small does not apply to our service or expertise; it means we pay closer attention to our clients. We take a concierge approach to serving our clients, and we find creative ways to match them with their perfect home.
Allow me to tell you a little about our team. Thelma Kidd was the founder/owner of iconic David Kidd Booksellers. Thelma is a Life Coach and is a Certified Senor Housing specialist. Many will remember Leesa LeClaire as the former Membership Director at Williamson, Inc. She is prominent in the Nashville hospitality scene and is a talented trainer and facilitator. Kate Cortner has a degree in Interior Design from TCU and is extraordinary at helping sellers present their home for the market in a way that highlights the best of the house and helps it sell quickly. We wear lots of interesting hats. All our experience, both individual and collective, adds something unique to our company for clients.
What is one piece of advice you’d give those selling property?
It’s worth the cost to retain a real estate professional who can guide you and help you get the best outcome for your property. Even the most desirable homes sometimes run into snags as properties change ownership. A professional can navigate the legal and technical waters and get you through to the finish line. That’s why 85% of sellers still list with a real estate professional. Take the time to prepare your home for sale. We have a complimentary list of Top Ten Tips for Preparing Your Home for Sale to get the highest price in the shortest amount of time. We like to say we can help make the process drama free.
Why did you choose Williamson County to open your business?
Williamson County is very business friendly. We have competent and progressive leaders in both the private and public sectors. There are many resources here, and the business to business community is vibrant and supportive. It’s no secret that Williamson County schools are one of the most significant assets for relocation and focusing our company in the county where parents want to raise their families is an advantage.
How has being a part of the overall business community in Williamson County helped you?
Williamson County has always been at the center of all my businesses. People here are open and receptive to supporting each other. There is pride and a commitment to education, economic growth, and quality of life. There are many opportunities to get involved, network, engage in business, and give back in Williamson County.
Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what advice (general or specific) can you offer to the readers?
I have always believed that being a member of the Chamber of Commerce is an essential business tool – it indeed has been and still is for me. But you must show up, and you must get involved. Building relationships take time but they are long-lasting and rewarding. Face to face networking is invaluable and foundational. Getting involved and volunteering on a committee can lead to building lasting relationships with other influential members and volunteers. I have seen people choose to do business or refer to another chamber member merely because they got to know them and admired them for their involvement in the chamber, without knowing anything at all about how they do business. Healthy relationships are transferable to business credibility, not to mention the lifelong friends you will make.
How can readers take advantage of your products and services?
You may not be in the market to change homes right now, but maybe you know someone who is. The highest compliment we can receive is a referral from friends and associates. We offer an easy way to do that here. If you are considering selling or buying a home, or just want to say “hi”, contact us to discover how we can help you achieve your goals. Please follow us on Facebook or Twitter or visit our website, parmenterandcompany.com.
As a thank you to the Chamber, we would like to offer members of Williamson, Inc. complimentary tickets to the Nashville Home + Remodeling Expo Feb 9-11 at Music City Center, by clicking here.
Cover Photo: Left to right; Thelma Kidd, Kate Cortner, Cindi Parmenter, Leesa LeClaire
Photo: Laura Atwood