Reaching a breaking point forced me to rethink everything—what kind of life I wanted, and who I needed to become to better my life and set an example for my daughter.

 

The hours blurred together. I had a baby at home, was working graveyard shifts, sometimes six days a week, and trying to keep everything from falling apart. I was exhausted, barely sleeping, and constantly running on fumes. It wasn’t sustainable. I knew deep down this wasn’t the life I wanted, and definitely not what I wanted my daughter to grow up watching.

 

Years earlier, I worked in the same line of work—dairy production manufacturing—but I had left it behind when I moved to Southern California. Out there, I worked in the film industry: craft services, catering, short-term gigs on set. It was unpredictable and exciting, and it taught me how to be resourceful, stay adaptable, and connect with all kinds of people.

 

When I came back to Modesto, it was to start a new chapter with my now-husband, Neal, and to be closer to family. Neal and I had been best friends for years and when we started our relationship, we knew it was special. Coming home meant building a life with him, but I was also starting over again.

 

In 2010 jobs were hard to come by. I tried temp work and worked in a vet clinic but eventually ended up right back in production manufacturing. It wasn’t my dream job by any means, but it paid well, came with benefits, and at the time, that’s what we needed. Still, I knew I couldn’t stay there forever.

 

Eventually, the long hours and constant stress caught up with me. I got sick often and didn’t feel like I could be the mom I wanted to be. I finally took a disability leave to focus on my health and rethink everything. That time gave me a breather—and also the space to take a risk. I started Little Foodies, a small business making healthy lunches for kids. It felt good to build something myself. Even though I had to shut it down during COVID, it showed me that I was capable of running a business. I realized I didn’t just want to work. I wanted to create something of my own and have more control over my life.

 

For years, people would tell me I’d be good at real estate. I was always the type of person who would walk around work at the start of my shift, saying “Hi” to everyone and forming real connections with my coworkers. I genuinely care about people and know how to problem-solve under pressure. While balancing Little Foodies, waitressing, and being a mom, I earned my real estate license.

 

Starting out wasn’t easy as I had to build systems and a client base from scratch. But real estate brings together all the skills I’ve built over the years: problem-solving, staying organized, communicating clearly, and thinking on my feet. I love that no two clients or transactions are ever the same. I love guiding people through a big decision and helping them feel confident in the process. This work has given me independence, flexibility, and purpose. It has allowed me to be there for my family, while also building something impactful through serving others.

 

Now, life looks a little different for us. I get to be more involved with Charlotte's life, and we can afford to give her more opportunities like jiu-jitsu, summer camps, and family trips. Everything Neal and I do is for her. More than anything, I want her to grow up knowing she has options. Success doesn’t have to look one way. You can change direction, start from scratch, and build a life you’re proud of. Life isn’t just about finding a job that pays well. It’s about building a life you actually enjoy living. Real estate has done that for me.

 

My approach to real estate is personal, honest, and hands-on. It is not just a transaction to me, but a partnership that lasts well beyond closing. Whether you are buying your first home or selling a place you have outgrown, I want you to feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the entire process. I ask a lot of questions because I want to understand what matters most to you. Once I do, I can create a plan that fits your goals and your timeline.

 

I am organized, responsive, and committed to putting in the work. That includes scheduling showings, preparing market analyses, writing strong and competitive offers, and making sure nothing falls through the cracks. Having lived in Modesto most of my life, I bring valuable local insight and can help match you with the right neighborhood for your lifestyle. I also have a strong network of trusted professionals to support you whenever something comes up.

 

At the end of the day, I am not just here to sell homes. I am here to help you move forward with clarity, with trust, and with someone in your corner who genuinely cares.

 

Sincerely,

 

Heather Bagley

REALTOR® | LIC# 02090630

Call/Text 209.556.3917

heather@fastagents.com

heatherhomeshearts.com