REAL ESTATE IN ASL

TAMARA: “Hi! I'm Tamara Suiter. I'm a licensed real estate agent here in Austin, TX. 

What inspired me to become a real estate agent? Actually, growing up, I never thought I'd become a real estate agent. I never thought about that, but my love for houses already began when I was younger.

Growing up, my parents often bought, sold, and moved homes. So during that time, my parents would often bring us to open houses or model homes dragging us along on those trips! But I've always enjoyed seeing the homes. Plus, I watched my parents talk through what they liked and didn’t like about each home, weighing the pros and cons of buying versus selling— it gave me an early glimpse into how personal and complex real estate decisions can be.Then, years later, when I met my husband, Derek, he was already a real estate agent when we met. I still didn't think I would become a licensed real estate agent. Until he had a Deaf client who needed additional language and communication support I stepped in to help facilitate communication and that was when I realized how much it meant to me to support them in that way... and I enjoyed the process... and I felt good at the end. It feels like I saw magic happen and it happens every time there's a happy outcome.

How does being Deaf influence my approach to real estate? As the only Deaf female Realtor in Austin, I have lived and I understand the communication challenges our Deaf and hard-of-hearing clients face everyday, all their lives, everywhere. Really, there's a lot to talk about when buying or selling a home. There's so many layers and situations. “If this, or if that?" It's a complicated process and now to add communication barriers on top of that. You're about to make the biggest financial purchase in your lifetime, and you don't have full communication access? That's really tough!

So, my approach is that our clients should be able to ask questions whenever you need, without jumping through hoops. With me, you can text, send a video message, or FaceTime. No interpreters, no delays, no need to switch between ASL and English… just clear, direct access. That’s how it should be.

And for me, it goes even deeper. Austin is home to the Texas School for the Deaf, plus many other deaf-owned and deaf-run businesses and services Many Deaf people have job opportunities here and it draws so many families, educators, and professionals to Austin. So when Deaf people are able to own a property here, it strengthens our community from the inside out. We keep our teachers and families close to the school, businesses, and services that we all have. Without it, our Deaf community would be deeply impacted. When we build stability and and grow our roots, through real estate, it will ensure the long-term success of the Deaf community here in Austin.

I’m also passionate about increasing wealth equity. You know, marginalized communities, including the Deaf community, have historically been denied access to opportunities that build generational wealth. Homeownership is one powerful way to change that.

About my partnership with Derek,... he's my husband and he's a licensed real estate agent with over 10+ years of experience He's hearing and learned American Sign Language when we first met. When you work with us, it's like you get two-for-one agent. Like getting two agents for the price of one deal! His expertise plus my communication & community focus, and we tag-team every transaction make sure you get top-tier service from all angles. And yes, we still like each other after working together everyday!

What can you expect when you work with me? You can expect that communication will work and be easy, you won't give it a second thought. You'll have the peace of mind. Patience when it matters most. I treat you like an important member of the Deaf community— Which means I’ll celebrate your wins, explain the tricky stuff, and make sure you never feel lost or rushed. This process should feel empowering, not overwhelming.

My final thoughts? If you’re Deaf or hard-of-hearing and looking to buy or sell in the Austin area, we’re your people. Whether you’re ready now or just curious, let’s talk! Derek and I are here to make your real estate journey smooth, fun, and fully accessible. We want you feel confident about taking the next step!”