For Aspire North REALTORS® Board Member Cherese Villareal, real estate is about much more than buying and selling property, it's about helping people navigate one of life's most important and emotional journeys with confidence and care.
Cherese currently serves on the Aspire North REALTORS® Board of Directors and is a REALTOR® with Century 21. Her path into real estate began in 2023 after encouragement from a close friend who recognized her genuine concern for others and believed those qualities would make her successful in the industry.
"They felt my personality and true concern and care for others would make a great fit for helping people buy or sell property," Cherese shares. "It can sometimes be such an emotional journey, sometimes good and sometimes not so good, and I want to make it as stress-free as possible."
Before joining Century 21, Cherese worked with Real Estate One in Bellaire, where she credits Managing Broker Kim Hejka for helping shape the foundation of her career.
"I was so blessed to have started under Kim's guidance," she says.
A Commitment to Leadership
Cherese's involvement with Aspire North REALTORS® began when former board leader Deirdre Carroll invited her to serve as a reverse mentor. Through that experience, she witnessed firsthand the positive momentum and vision guiding the association.
"I was inspired by the changes and great direction the Board was heading," Cherese explains. "I wanted to be an integral part of that journey. I felt the only way to help ensure we continued moving forward was to become heavily involved."
When she was selected to serve on the Board of Directors, Cherese felt both honored and humbled.
"I was so incredibly honored to be selected and entrusted with the responsibility of helping advance the mission of Aspire North REALTORS®. I love being involved and meeting all the other REALTORS®. We have such incredible members."
Bringing a Unique Perspective
One aspect that sets Cherese apart is her legal background. Holding a law degree allows her to approach contracts, negotiations, and problem-solving from a unique angle.
"My law degree sometimes makes me look at contracts and issues completely differently than others," she says with a smile. "Sometimes that's a good thing and sometimes it's a bad thing."
She is also passionate about addressing one of Northern Michigan's most pressing housing challenges: affordability and inventory for first-time homebuyers.
"What I'm seeing in Antrim County and the surrounding area is a strong need for housing for first-time homebuyers. It doesn't have to be big, but it does have to be livable."
At the same time, she's encouraged by younger buyers who are willing to invest sweat equity into a home.
"I'm seeing more young people realizing that a little sweat equity can add tremendous value to a property."
Giving Back to the Community
Service extends far beyond real estate for Cherese. She is actively involved in several community organizations, including Bellaire Community United Methodist Church, serves as Vice President of the ASI Community Center Board, and volunteers with GRRoM (Golden Retriever Rescue of Michigan).
Her love for animals is evident at home, where she's kept busy by her three Golden Retrievers—Ceva, Gracie, and Clyde.
Cherese also has an adventurous side. Before moving to Michigan in 2021, she was an avid Harley-Davidson rider.
While many people have a favorite Northern Michigan destination, Cherese finds it impossible to choose just one.
"My favorite Northern Michigan spot is simply anywhere outside. This state is too beautiful to pick just one place—they're all special to me."
Why REALTOR® Associations Matter
Cherese believes REALTOR® associations play a critical role in shaping communities and housing opportunities.
"This association is crucial because we have the power and membership to influence so many aspects of the housing and property industry," she says. "Whether it's zoning decisions, short-term rental regulations, or incentives for builders willing to create housing for first-time homebuyers, REALTORS® have an important voice."
She also hopes to see greater public recognition for the work REALTORS® do behind the scenes.
"I would love to see REALTORS® recognized not only for the work people see but also for everything we do behind the scenes that so many never know about."
Fun Facts about Cherese
Coffee or Tea?
Tea—for sure. "I can't choke down coffee!"
Early Bird or Night Owl?
Night owl, all night long.
Mountains or Beach?
Mountains!
Favorite Podcast?
Quote of the Day with Sean Croxton.
Advice for New REALTORS®
If Cherese could give one piece of advice to someone just starting in the industry, it would be simple:
Ask more questions.
"I don't know a single working REALTOR® who wouldn't be happy to help a newcomer if they'll just ask. I was afraid at first, but I quickly learned how willing everyone was to help. We truly need to have each other's backs in this industry. That's how we survive."
Why Real Estate Matters
Like many REALTORS®, Cherese occasionally faces challenging days and moments of doubt. But one experience always reminds her why she chose this profession.
"There are days when I think, 'Why am I doing this?' Then I help a first-time homebuyer achieve their dream of homeownership, and I remember exactly why I'm in real estate."
It's that passion for helping others, combined with her commitment to service, leadership, and community, that makes Cherese Villareal an invaluable member of Aspire North REALTORS® and the Northern Michigan real estate community.
