Elena Kovrigin, a two-time eXp Realty ICON agent, is lighting up the Asheville, North Carolina, real estate scene. Elena brings a lot of hard work and a touch of her rich heritage as founder of Nesting Dolls Realty, named after her beloved Russia where she was born and raised in the frosty climate of Western Siberia.
Elena arrived in the U.S. in 2004 and has been in real estate since 2016. She joined eXp Realty in October 2021, a decision driven by her desire for greater support and autonomy in her career. Dissatisfied with the support she received from her previous brokerage, she found eXp Realty to be the perfect platform to take charge of her own success through her hard work and determination.
“There is no ceiling at eXp,” said Elena. “I am in full control and in charge of my success. The possibilities are endless.”
Her YouTube Channel Caught Fire
One of Elena’s most significant achievements is her YouTube channel “Living in Asheville,” which she started almost seven years ago. Initially, progress was slow, despite her efforts to follow various strategies and advice from industry gurus. However, in 2019, she received an email from someone who had watched her video about Asheville and had questions about relocating to the area. This was a turning point for Elena, as she realized the potential of focusing her content on what it’s like to live in Asheville.
Since then, Elena has dedicated herself to creating informative and engaging videos about life in Asheville. Elena holds a pilot’s license to fly a drone, allowing her to capture stunning aerial footage of her community. This hard work has paid off, as her videos began to attract numerous leads who appreciated her insights and wanted to work with her.
Elena Was Selected to Host the American Dream TV Show
Elena’s commitment to promoting her local community and supporting local businesses did not go unnoticed. Her passion and enthusiasm led to her being selected among dozens of agents to host the American Dream TV show, an Emmy-nominated national TV show. The producers were searching for someone who could serve as an ambassador for the Asheville area, and Elena was the perfect fit.
“Everyone who knows me here locally knows that I always promote local businesses and support them,” Elena said. Her dedication to her community and her role as a local influencer have cemented her status as a trusted and beloved figure in Asheville.
Learn More About Elena Kovrigin:
Years in real estate: Since 2016
Gross sales and transactions in 2023:
$15M (2021), $15M (2022), $11M (2023)
Brokerage history:
- eXp Realty (Sept. 2021-current)
- Realty One Group Pivot (Oct. 2019-Sept. 2021)
- Coldwell Banker King (2017-Oct. 2019)
Main territory:
Asheville and Hendersonville, NC
Main focus:
Relocation specialist, single-family homes, investment properties
Accolades, accomplishments & awards:
- 2X ICON Agent (2022, 2023)
- AVL top 100 agents twice (recognizing top 100 agents in Asheville)
When and why did you join eXp?
“I joined in October 2021 after hearing Rich Tomasini on a podcast talking about time and how it’s flying by way too quickly while our small kids are growing up way too fast.”
What were you NOT getting from your prior brokerage?
Help, technology, all the ways I can earn more money and be rewarded financially not just with a social media post or a trophy.
What is one thing about eXp that surprised you?
“I am closer to our group in Asheville in a cloud-based brokerage and connected to everyone more than when I was in a traditional brokerage. Everyone is helping each other in our group.”
What kind of collaboration have you experienced at eXp?
“On a city level as well as on a whole company level. Just got to reach out and people are ready to help. You get what you put out and that’s very refreshing.”
Best tip to share with other agents:
“If you succeed – it’s your accomplishment and if you fail – it’s also all on you, too. Stop blaming others. This company has all the resources – use them!”
10 Fun Things About Elena Kovrigin
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Being able to travel with my family and see the world.
Who is the person you most admire?
My husband, who is always consistent, determined, humble and super supportive.
One thing you can’t live without?
Chocolate
One trait that has led to your success?
Consistency and slow pace, not looking for immediate gratification
What celebrity would play you in a movie or TV show?
Courtney Cox
Pet peeve?
Slow drivers in the left lane
Little known fact about yourself?
I was born and raised in Western Siberia (Russia)
Song you never tire of?
“Sweet Caroline,” by Neil Diamond
Favorite meal?
Anything Italian with red sauce and cheese
Your epitaph will say:
She didn’t take herself too seriously.
