Home is not defined by square footage or finishes. It is the quiet witness to our everyday lives. It holds our routines, our memories, and the pieces of ourselves we collect along the way. As designer Nate Berkus once said, “Your home should tell the story of who you are and be a collection of what you love.” In this Home Is… Q&A series, we sit down with three female real estate agents who understand that truth deeply, each offering a personal perspective on what transforms a house into a place that truly feels like home in Fayetteville.
Margaret Schloss
Margaret Schloss is incredibly kindhearted, the kind of person who naturally puts others at ease. In a process that can often feel overwhelming, she believes knowledge is power and takes care to ensure her clients feel informed, confident, and truly supported every step of the way. She brings both strategy and intentional heart to the table, balancing a strong sales background with a deeply personal approach to real estate. Margaret understands how to advocate and negotiate with clarity, but what truly sets her apart is the way she honors each client’s story. She believes a home should reflect who you are and what you love, and that buying or selling one is never just a transaction. With a calm, thoughtful presence, she helps first-time buyers, seasoned homeowners, and investors alike feel grounded, understood, and confident in the decisions they are making.
Home is…
Home is a place of peace. It is where you can be your true self. For me, home is my favorite place to be. It is my safe place, it keeps me warm and comfortable, and I am surrounded by the three people who mean the most to me, my family.
First thing you notice when you walk into a house?
The smell and the natural sunlight.
Best advice for first-time buyers in Fayetteville?
Before you start your search, be financially prepared so you do not stretch yourself too far. Know your budget before you begin. This saves time and helps you stay on track. Also, take the time to find an agent and lender who fit your personality. Not everyone is the right match, and that is okay.
Dream feature you secretly hope every listing has?
Laundry in the primary closet. It just makes sense. I have never understood why you would carry dirty laundry across the house to a laundry room by the garage.
Favorite neighborhood in Fayetteville and why?
Lovers Lane and the Canterbury neighborhood. Every home has character like no other. They all have their own personality, which I love. The large lots, mature trees, and privacy are things you do not find in many neighborhoods.
One thing that makes a house feel like “home.”
Personal touches. In my home, that is my plants, photos of my family, and a latte to start the day.
Christine Cook
Christine Cook carries a deep sense of place with her, shaped by years of living, working, and building relationships in Northwest Arkansas. She understands Fayetteville not just as a market, but as a collection of neighborhoods, rhythms, and stories that evolve over time. Christine approaches real estate with steadiness and intention, helping clients slow down and see the bigger picture in what can feel like a fast-moving process. She believes home is where life unfolds, and that belief guides the way she listens, advises, and advocates. With a calm confidence and genuine care for the people she serves, Christine helps buyers and sellers make decisions rooted not only in value, but in lifestyle, longevity, and a true sense of belonging.
Home is…
Home is where your life happens. Your everyday moments, memories, and your sense of belonging.
First thing you notice when you walk into a house?
How the home feels. I pay close attention to natural light, ceiling height, layout, and flow. Buyers decide emotionally within the first few seconds of entering a home, so how the spaces connect really matters.
Best advice for first-time buyers in Fayetteville?
Work with a local lender, get pre-approved early, and do not panic. Fayetteville is a unique market with distinct neighborhoods. Having lived and worked here for decades, I help buyers focus on long-term value, lifestyle, and resale potential.
Dream feature you secretly hope every listing has?
Natural light, especially floor-to-ceiling windows, and some kind of outdoor living space. A porch, deck, or backyard that lets you enjoy the surroundings makes all the difference.
Favorite neighborhood in Fayetteville and why?
Downtown Fayetteville will always be my favorite because it is home. I love being able to walk to restaurants, trails, and community events. I have lived in several neighborhoods over the past 40 years, and each offers something special. Fayetteville has a rare way of feeling like a small town while still evolving.
One thing that makes a house feel like “home.”
How the indoor and outdoor spaces support everyday life. It is about where people gather, cook, relax, and make memories.
Gabel Realty
Led by founder Melanie Gabel, the idea of home is woven into everything the Gabel Realty team does. They believe that finding the right home is as much about people and connection as it is about property. Their approach is thoughtful and relationship-driven, grounded in the understanding that buying or selling a home marks an important chapter in someone’s life. With a deep love for the Fayetteville community and a commitment to guiding clients with clarity and care, the Gabel Realty gals create a process that feels supportive, informed, and intentional. They believe a home should reflect who you are, hold what you love, and give you a place to truly settle in and feel at ease.
Home is…
Home is far beyond a physical place. It is the people, memories, routines, and comforts that allow you to relax and truly be yourself.
First thing you notice when you walk into a house?
The natural light. Bright spaces instantly make a home feel more open and welcoming.
Best advice for first-time buyers in Fayetteville?
Get pre-approved before you even start browsing online. Use a local lender you can build a relationship with and be clear about your total monthly payment, including taxes and insurance. Leave room in your budget for travel, dining out, and savings. Then, choose a local agent who truly understands the area you are buying in.
Dream feature you secretly hope every listing has?
Storage. Walk-in closets, a pantry, linen closets, and an attic.
Favorite neighborhood in Fayetteville and why?
The Washington Willow Historic District because of its charm, walkability, beautiful homes, and close proximity to downtown, dining, and local events.
One thing that makes a house feel like “home.”
Personal touches that make it uniquely yours. Favorite scents, meaningful artwork or prints, fresh flowers, and framed memories.
Margaret Schloss - Collier & Associates (417) 293-8975 - margaret@collierpropertiesrealty.com
Christine Cook - Collier & Associates - (479) 530-5070 - christinecooksells@gmail.com
Gabel Realty - (479) 485-0695 - info@gabelrealty.com