My family and I have been living in Hampton Roads since 1993 when we were transferred here with the Navy (My husband, Mike, Retired Intelligence Senior Chief). We had a daughter in 1994 and son in 1997. They’re now grown and live here and in Fredericksburg. It took me a while to get used to being an “empty nester,” but have truly come to enjoy it! I’ve been a Realtor for over 15 years (I can’t believe that already!). It’s a wonderful occupation which gives me freedom to make my own schedule and to help people make one of the largest decisions of their lives.
About Kelly R. Klaers
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
We currently have 2 fur-children – Basil Rathbone is my 5-year old Beagle who loves everybody and Charlie Chaplin, our 6-year old Terrorist! I mean Yorkshire Terrior. He is also very friendly, but protective of Basil (his dog).
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
When the kids were little, I tried to stay home with them as much as I could. I worked part-time as a legal secretary until my son went to Kindergarten, then I stayed home all day, which was wonderful. However, as everyone knows having a family isn’t cheap, so I decided to go into Real Estate. I always thought I’d be good at it, and it turns out it’s perfect for me and my clients.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
No one can do it all, so don’t even try!
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Retired (helping only friends and past clients as needed) and traveling!
Kelly R. Klaers & Our Community
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Aldo’s Italian Restaurant in Virginia Beach is my favorite (go out for your birthday nice dinner). We love Park Lane Tavern, closer to home and their Tuesday Fish Fry (buy 1 get 1) is a favorite! Then, there’s my try-not-to-go-too-often place… Jersey Mike’s!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Since 1993
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Well, back when the Reality show Survivor started, Rudy Boesch, was on the original cast in 2000. He was a local retired Navy Seal and quite a character. He really enjoyed the spotlight after that show. Very sweet man. Then I would have to say when I was President of the PTA at Salem Elementary, I invited Mayor Oberndorf to come speak to the children. Whether or not you liked her politics, she was a genuine lovely woman; very generous and caring for the school children.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
RE/MAX Alliance
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
That my family loves to visit because we have an ocean beach!
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Oh my, so many are popping into my head. There are many actors whom I respect for their talent and humanity. Trisha Yearwood keeps popping to the front of my brain. I’ve always loved her music and her voice (and back when my voice was decent, I could sing right in her range)! I would have her to my home for lunch. She just seems so genuine and sweet and I don’t feel like she’d be looking at her watch waiting to leave. I doubt that Garth would join her, but that would be cool too!
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Now I’ll be dating myself (especially since it was an oldy before I was born)… Auntie Mame with Roselind Russell! Hands down. She is so amazing in that movie, so witty, hilarious! TV – That 70’s Show holds up and is always funny! But my go-to late at night, almost every night is a Carol Burnett sketch from her variety show in the 70’s.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
My original “goal” in life was to be on Broadway. I was a theatre major in college and went on a regional audition and didn’t make it. Unfortunately, I didn’t pursue that avenue more, but I have acted in many plays in various states and local. Being a Realtor it’s been difficult to do, but I’m hoping to get back into it again soon!
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Christmas time and the lights. They are my favorite and my favorite time of year.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My children.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Dorothy. Oh, sorry… haha. Here, my home in VB, I can’t imagine ever moving (or packing!) from here. Mike and I have lived in this house since 1999 when my kids were 2 and 5, so it’s home. My sisters, they are my home and God.
