Christina Sharp grew up in the house her father built on a quiet, leafy street in Town & Country. She moved away for college, but says she returned to her hometown three years ago because of “the unusually strong bonds St. Louisans have with friends and family.” Sharp has worked in commercial real estate with her father most of her life, but recently decided to obtain her residential license. “It’s exciting—there is so much more style and personality involved,” she says. In November, she joined the team at Upper End Properties in Clayton and now helps first-time buyers find homes in neighborhoods like University City, the Central West End and Ladue, where she, herself, lives.

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What is your favorite restaurant?
Cardwell’s. It’s the only place I can find Sancerre by the glass.

Which park/outdoor spot do you most enjoy?
Tilles Park. It’s good for everything—walking paths, ducks, playgrounds.

Where do you grab a good cup of coffee?
Deer Creek Cafe on Clayton Road. I go for their Americano and coconut, gluten-free Maui muffins!

What qualities make this a great neighborhood?
I love the connections, the way everyone knows each other.

What is your favorite thing about Ladue?
I’m a runner, and the loop I take through the St. Louis Country Club grounds is one of the prettiest in the area.

What sets Ladue apart from other areas in St. Louis?
People here are extremely proud of their homes and lawns. They really take care of them.

NOTEWORTHY: In the short time since she switched to residential real estate, Sharp has already sold two houses.

Photo: Bill Barrett