Christy Tornelli brings a relationship-driven approach to The Agency Santa Fe, shaped by decades of leadership, a deep understanding of community, thoughtful judgment, and a genuine appreciation for the architecture, history, culture, and distinctive character of Santa Fe.
Real estate has been part of Christy's life from an early age. She grew up with parents in the business, including her mother, who founded Austin Homes and Gardens magazine, and developed an early appreciation for homes, design, and the communities built around them. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, she went on to spend 30 years in education, including 15 years as Director of a 75-year-old private school in East Dallas. Leading a multigenerational community of families and faculty required trust, discretion, sound judgment, and the ability to navigate complex decisions with care, qualities that now define the way she serves her real estate clients.
Her connection to Santa Fe began with childhood visits and deepened over decades of returning with her family. She and her husband, an architect, eventually purchased a second home in Santa Fe, which she personally managed as a short-term rental. After years of dividing their time between Texas and New Mexico, they chose to make Santa Fe their full-time home. Having experienced that progression firsthand, she understands what it means to discover Santa Fe, invest in a second home, relocate, and ultimately build a life here.
Outside of real estate, her own interests naturally keep her connected to the qualities that draw so many people to New Mexico. She enjoys hiking, live music, gardening, painting, and traveling, particularly to Mexico City, where her husband grew up. Her connection to art, culture, and community continues to deepen her appreciation for what makes Santa Fe unlike anywhere else.
Christy brings a thoughtful, people-centered approach to her work. At The Agency Santa Fe, she combines a lifetime of leadership and relationships with a personal understanding of the decisions involved in buying, selling, and making Santa Fe home. She works alongside fellow broker J.L. Forke, bringing together their complementary strengths to serve clients across Northern New Mexico.