Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessie Erickson.
Hi Jessie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Real estate runs deep in my family. My dad, Tom Hetland, was a longtime agent and broker, and today he shares his knowledge as a real estate instructor at Kaplan. I grew up surrounded by open houses, contracts, and conversations about market trends, so the world of real estate always felt familiar—but for years, I kept it at arm’s length.
Then something shifted. In September of 2022, at 40 years old, I felt this undeniable pull to finally follow the path that had always been quietly calling to me. I signed up for my real estate course—taught by none other than my dad—and something magical happened. Literally within 48 hours of enrolling, I had an interview with Deanna Bennett, one of the top agents in Duluth and that day, she offered me a job!
I laughed and said, “Deanna, I just signed up for the Real Estate class—I haven’t even started!” But she smiled and said, “I know. You’ll learn alongside me. This will be fun.”
It felt like the universe was giving me a big, sparkly green light. So I said yes, jumped in headfirst, and started working with her and her team just one week later. Since then, I’ve grown into my role as both a buyer’s and listing agent on the Deanna Bennett Real Estate Team. Starting a brand-new career at 40 wasn’t just a leap of faith—it was a leap into alignment. And I haven’t looked back since.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not exactly smooth—but absolutely worth it. Starting a brand-new career at 40 is no small thing. I came in with passion and curiosity, but also a million questions—and I asked every single one! I had so much to learn, from contracts and client relationships to navigating the fast-moving pace of the market.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve had along the way, especially from the amazing team at Messina & Associates—and most of all, from Deanna Bennett. She’s been more than a mentor; she’s helped shape me into the agent I am today. I wouldn’t be nearly as detail-oriented or confident without her guidance and grace.
And beyond the business side of things, Deanna helped me elevate in ways I didn’t expect. I owned a yoga studio for over a decade, and let’s just say my wardrobe was 90% yoga pants. Deanna didn’t just help me align with my passion—she helped me align with my style! I still keep my roots in comfort, but now I feel like I truly show up as the professional I am, inside and out.
So yes, there were challenges—but every step, even the hard ones, has felt like it was leading me exactly where I was meant to go.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a licensed Realtor with the Deanna Bennett Real Estate Team at Messina & Associates in Duluth, Minnesota—and I absolutely love what I do. With over 23 years of sales experience and a deep connection to this incredible city I’ve called home for two decades, I specialize in helping both buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process with confidence, clarity, and ease.
Real estate is in my DNA. My dad, Tom Hetland, was a longtime agent and broker, and now teaches real estate at Kaplan. I had the privilege of learning from him—and the moment I stepped into this field, it felt like a natural fit. What sets me apart is the unique mix of professional expertise and personal connection I bring to every transaction. I’m committed to creating a professional experience that feels both detailed and personal.
I’m known for asking smart questions, being highly responsive, and handling every detail with care. I understand that real estate is often one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions a person will make—and I honor that by providing information clearly and ethically, always empowering my clients to make the right decision for them.
Before real estate, I was the co-owner of a yoga studio and led yoga retreats. I bring that same entrepreneurial drive, energy, and adaptability into my work today. Whether it’s finding a hidden gem of a property or developing a thoughtful pricing strategy, I’m proud to be a resource my clients can trust.
And let’s be honest—starting a brand-new career at 40 can be daunting. But I’m incredibly proud of the growth I’ve experienced and the trust I’ve earned. I’m especially grateful to work alongside Deanna Bennett, who has not only shaped my professionalism but also helped me grow into a more polished, confident version of myself—wardrobe included!
At the end of the day, I’m here to offer ethical, professional, and personalized service rooted in community. I’m passionate about Duluth, about real estate, and about creating a client experience that’s clear, comfortable, and maybe even a little fun.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Playing all day outside! I grew up on a horseshoe-shaped street, and from sunrise to sunset, we were out riding bikes, running through sprinklers, and playing games with the neighborhood kids. I definitely grew up drinking from the neighbor’s hose, covered in grass stains and runing wild in the woods. Once the sun started to set, we’d play kick the can and capture the flag until the streetlights came on. I was pretty good at both—and I absolutely loved every second of it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.deannabennett.com/agents/jessie-erickson/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deannabennettrealestateteam/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeannaBennettTeam
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/jessie.erickson.re/
