In honor of Women’s History Month, we asked three standout agents — Lianna Tomas Fetko, Teresa Alessandro, and Kirsten Aiello — to reflect on what it means to be a woman in real estate today — the leaders who shaped them, the moments that defined them, and the advice they would give to the next generation.
Their answers reveal something powerful: while the industry may be competitive, their approach is rooted in care, resilience, trust, and community. From building lasting client relationships to mentoring other women in the field, each brings a distinct perspective shaped by personal experience and professional discipline. Together, their reflections underscore how women continue to elevate the industry — not only through results, but through leadership that prioritizes empathy, integrity, and impact.
Teressa Alessandro
What does Women’s History Month mean to you in the context of real estate?
“Women are the heart of the home! We transform spaces naturally, and we dominate this industry because of our knack of making others feel welcomed.”
Who is a woman who shaped your leadership style?
“My Nonna (Grandmother). She took such pride in her space, her home, and always strived to make even the smallest achievements feel special. In the Making NYC Home team, we look for celebrate each other and uplift the women to put their heart into every sale.”
What’s one professional moment you’re most proud of?
“I helped a family of 4 declutter their LOFT in Flatiron and it completely transformed their children’s lives. I even taught their daughter how to make her bed, and this small act of organization make her feel independent and proud of her space.“
What advice would you give to women entering this industry?
“Care about people, and the business will come.”
How do you define success today vs. 10 years ago?
“Family.”
Kirsten Aiello
What does Women’s History Month mean to you in the context of real estate?
“As a real estate agent I take pride in being a woman. Real estate can be a lonely profession but from my life experiences of being an only daughter, a little sister, a wife and a mother I understand the value of knowing how to walk alone but I also understand how crucial it is to be able to work together with others to get things done and to do so in a way that is caring and kind.“
Who is a woman who shaped your leadership style?
“My mother and my daughters. My mom was my best friend. Watching her raise my three older brothers and me, manage the divorce from my father and lead countless boards, committees and work positions ALL while holding herself to the highest standards and treating others with respect and empathy taught me resilience and never-ending drive. My 26 and 22year old daughters keep it real with me. They pump me up but they also let me know if I might want to re-think something. Raising them is a journey in continuing the strong, powerful legacy of my mother.”
What’s one professional moment you’re most proud of?
“It’s impossible to name just one because each deal, each relationship has taught me something different about the business and about myself. What brings me joy is when my clients tell me “I treated them like family.” I want people to feel seen, heard and cared for- like family.”
What advice would you give to women entering this industry?
“Don’t quit! Own your vulnerability and use it to connect in your relationships. However, know when a certain situation requires you to walk away, walk away but again, don’t quit!”
How do you define success today vs. 10 years ago?
“Today I recognize the importance of taking a pause. 10 years ago I was reacting in the moment and not leaving enough room for breath and silent moments. You can learn a lot in the silent moments.”
Lianna Tomas Fetko
What does Women’s History Month mean to you in the context of real estate?
“Women’s History Month in real estate is a reminder of how far the industry has come and how much of that progress has been driven by women who pushed into spaces that weren’t always built for them. Real estate at its core is about trust, relationships, and community, and women have consistently elevated those areas.”
Who is a woman who shaped your leadership style?
“A woman who really shaped my leadership style is my mom. She wasn’t loud about it but she led by example every day. She showed me what it means to be consistent, do the right thing, and show up for people no matter what. That stuck with me. I try to lead the same way now, not about being the most vocal person in the room but being someone people can rely on and trust.”
What’s one professional moment you’re most proud of?
“One of the moments I’m most proud of is hitting Platinum Circle this past year and doing over $10M in sales. It took a lot of consistency and building real relationships with clients. It meant a lot because it showed that the work is paying off.”
What advice would you give to women entering this industry?
“Trust yourself early and don’t wait until you feel “ready.” You’ll figure it out by doing. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries and own your value. You don’t have to take every deal or say yes to everything to be successful. And most importantly, stay consistent. The people who win in this industry are the ones who show up every day.”
How do you define success today vs. 10 years ago?
“10 years ago, I was still figuring things out. I wasn’t even in real estate yet, so success just meant getting on the right path and starting to build something for myself. Today, it’s a lot more personal. Success is having control over my time and trusting myself.”
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