WOMEN TO WATCH

Ashley Fondren Jones

Commercial Real Estate Agent
Haybar Real Estate

I work in commercial real estate with Haybar Real Estate overseeing sales and leasing for both company-owned and third-party properties, primarily within our portfolio. We are a value-add firm focused on acquiring underperforming assets, improving them through leasing and light renovations and repositioning for hold or sale, while actively managing our own multi-tenant properties in-house.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

What I learned from my first job

It taught attention to detail, organization and professionalism. It built strong communication and time-management skills, shaping my work ethic and supporting success in contracts, negotiations and client relationships.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

How important relationship management would be. Success isn’t just deals, it’s networking, communication, trust and maintaining long-term connections.

Best advice I ever received

There will always be someone smarter or more experienced in the room, and that’s not something to be intimidated by. Instead, see it as an opportunity to learn something new.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

It is more than buying and selling. It requires strategy, problem solving and relationships. Every deal is complex, demanding creativity and patience where trust and reputation matter just as much.

Best career moment so far

They're more milestones, but closing my first million-dollar deal in my first few months to being selected to lease the commercial spaces in the new Artspace building.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Women & Children First. Their mission is to empower women and children impacted by domestic violence through shelter, advocacy and support services, helping them achieve safety, independence and long-term stability.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

The people and relationships keep me coming back. It feels like a community, not just work. With something new every day, I stay engaged. It's meaningful, not just a job.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

Being intentional with my time, prioritizing family, staying organized and planning ahead helps reduce stress. Accepting what I can't control, staying flexible and maintaining a positive mindset keep me grounded.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Just taking a step back, giving myself a little time helps me come back with a clear head. Also talking with my colleagues to gain their perspectives can be helpful.

How I knew this was my passion

It came together through different seasons of my life, combining my skills, real estate license and experiences into a role that naturally aligned with what I love.

Biggest challenges in my career

I wouldn't necessarily call them challenges, but being one of a few women in the industry and many of the relationships and networks have been built over years.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Little Rock

I can’t start my day until

I’ve had my 7Brew

Hobbies

Cooking and baking

Binge watch

Anything Taylor Sheridan

Dream vacation

Taking our kids back to Turks and Caicos

Favorite meal in town

Steak and au gratin potatoes from Sonny Williams’

Best recent local discovery

The Artspace project on Eighth Street

Latest splurge

My new car

Most-used app

Outlook for email

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