We had the good fortune of connecting with Marni Rueger and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marni, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business as a real estate agent was a decision driven by a combination of passion, knowledge, and the desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I have always been drawn to the dynamic nature of the real estate industry, where every day presents new challenges and opportunities. My deep understanding of the local market, coupled with my strong communication skills, made me confident that I could offer exceptional service to clients. I saw the potential to help people navigate one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives—buying or selling a home—and knew that I could bring both enthusiasm and expertise to the table.

Moreover, I wanted the flexibility to create my own path and build a brand that reflects my values: integrity, hard work, and a commitment to client satisfaction. I recognized that by becoming my own boss, I could implement innovative strategies, stay ahead of market trends, and provide a personalized experience that truly meets the needs of each client. This drive to succeed, paired with my motivation to continually learn and grow in the field, solidified my decision to start my own real estate business.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m thrilled to share more about my real estate business and what sets it apart. My business is built on a foundation of deep market knowledge, personalized service, and a true passion for helping clients achieve their real estate goals. What really sets me apart is my commitment to understanding each client’s unique needs and providing a tailored experience that goes beyond just buying or selling a property. I pride myself on being more than just a transaction facilitator—I’m a trusted advisor, a problem-solver, and a resource for my clients long after the deal is done.

Getting to where I am today was not easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding. The journey has been filled with challenges, from navigating market fluctuations to building a client base from scratch. However, these obstacles have taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning. I’ve learned that success in this business requires not only hard work and dedication but also genuine care for the people you serve.

What I’m most proud of is the reputation I’ve built for being a reliable, knowledgeable, and approachable agent who truly has my clients’ best interests at heart. I’m excited about the future and the opportunity to continue growing my business while helping more people find their dream homes. My brand is all about trust, integrity, and excellence, and I want people to know that when you work with me, you’re not just getting an agent—you’re gaining a partner who is fully invested in your success.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Denver for a week, I’d want to show them the best that this city has to offer, combining outdoor adventures, delicious food, craft drinks, and unique local spots.

Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Exploration
Morning: Start with breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, known for its inventive twists on classic breakfast dishes.
Afternoon: Explore the Denver Art Museum, which offers a stunning collection of Native American art, as well as rotating exhibits from around the world.
Evening: Head to Larimer Square for dinner at Rioja, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. Then grab a craft cocktail at The Cruise Room, a speakeasy-style bar that feels like stepping back into the 1930s.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure & Red Rocks
Morning: Start with a hike at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, one of the most iconic spots in Colorado. The views are breathtaking, and we might catch a morning yoga session if possible.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at The Fort in Morrison, a historic restaurant offering a unique menu that incorporates Colorado’s Western heritage.
Evening: Return to Red Rocks for a concert if the timing is right, or catch a movie at their summer film series.

Day 3: Art & Culture
Morning: Visit the RiNo (River North) Art District, which is filled with street art, galleries, and creative spaces.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Central Market, a food hall with diverse options from sushi to gourmet sandwiches.
Evening: Take a sunset walk around City Park, and enjoy views of the Denver skyline against the Rocky Mountains. For dinner, try Uchi, a contemporary Japanese dining experience with an emphasis on sushi and small plates.

Day 4: Day Trip to Boulder
Morning: Drive to Boulder and hike at Chautauqua Park, known for the Flatirons.
Afternoon: Explore Pearl Street Mall for shopping and lunch at The Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant that’s a local favorite.
Evening: Head back to Denver and relax at one of the city’s many breweries, such as Great Divide Brewing Co. or Denver Beer Co.

Day 5: Mountains & Mining Towns
Morning: Take a scenic drive up to Georgetown, a former mining town where you can ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad.
Afternoon: On the way back, stop at Idaho Springs for lunch at Beau Jo’s, home of Colorado’s famous mountain pies.
Evening: Return to Denver and enjoy dinner at Acorn in The Source, a hip food hall in RiNo, followed by a drink at Death & Co., a sophisticated cocktail bar.

Day 6: Garden & River Fun
Morning: Head to the Denver Botanic Gardens, and enjoy stunning displays.
Afternoon: Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Confluence Park and spend some time on the South Platte River.
Evening: Have dinner at El Five, which offers panoramic views of the city and a menu full of Mediterranean-inspired small plates. Finish the night with a rooftop drink at The Woods, located at The Source Hotel.

Day 7: Brunch & Wrap-Up
Morning: End the trip with brunch at Denver Biscuit Co., famous for its delicious biscuit sandwiches.
Afternoon: If time allows, visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science or take a walk through Washington Park.
Evening: Union Station, a beautifully restored train station that’s now a hub of dining and shopping.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! My journey as a real estate agent has been shaped by the support and guidance of some incredible people and resources. First and foremost, I have to give a huge shoutout to my mentor, who not only taught me the ins and outs of the industry but also instilled in me the confidence to take the leap and start my own business. Their wisdom and experience have been invaluable to me, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without their encouragement.

I also want to recognize the amazing network of colleagues and friends who have always been there to offer advice, share insights, and celebrate the wins along the way. Additionally, books like “The Millionaire Real Estate Agent” by Gary Keller provided me with the strategic thinking and business acumen needed to build a successful practice. Lastly, I owe a great deal to my family, whose unwavering support and belief in my abilities have fueled my drive to succeed. Their love and encouragement have been the backbone of my journey, and I’m forever grateful to have them by my side.

Website: marnirueger@kw.com

Instagram: @marnirueger

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562016103161

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.