Joe Simms of REMAX Properties East
From Farm Roots to Real Estate Success — 45 Years of Dedication

For more than four decades, Joe Simms has been a trusted name in Louisville real estate. As the leader of the Joe Simms Group at REMAX Properties East, Joe has built a reputation for excellence, experience, and unwavering commitment to his clients. His journey into real estate began in 1979, and today, he and his team are consistently ranked among the top sales teams in Kentucky.
A Strong Foundation
Joe’s roots trace back to a farm in Manton, Kentucky, where he grew up alongside five brothers and a sister. Their education began in a two-room schoolhouse taught by the Sisters of Loretto. Within his family, careers spanned a variety of industries—including engineering, medicine, law, and home remodeling—but for Joe, real estate was the perfect fit. After graduating from Western Kentucky University with degrees in Economics and Business Administration, he later obtained a real estate degree, setting the stage for his lifelong career.
Joe’s roots trace back to a farm in Manton, Kentucky, where he grew up alongside five brothers and a sister. Their education began in a two-room schoolhouse taught by the Sisters of Loretto. Within his family, careers spanned a variety of industries—including engineering, medicine, law, and home remodeling—but for Joe, real estate was the perfect fit. After graduating from Western Kentucky University with degrees in Economics and Business Administration, he later obtained a real estate degree, setting the stage for his lifelong career.
Joe and his wife, Rita, have called Louisville home since 1976 and have lived in Lake Forest since 1999. Married for 45 years, they have two daughters, Renee and Melissa, both of whom work alongside Joe in his real estate business. The Simms family also cherishes their role as grandparents to six grandchildren, ranging in age from 4 to 14.
A Career of Growth and Leadership
Joe began his real estate career with Century 21, where he spent 20 years before moving to REMAX. In 2014, he and two business partners purchased REMAX Associates, which was recognized in 2015 as one of the top 50 real estate offices in the United States. In 2020, they merged with REMAX Properties East, and Joe continued leading his team with the same dedication and expertise that has defined his career. Since forming the Joe Simms Group in 2003, his team has been ranked among REMAX Kentucky's top 10 sales teams every year.
Joe began his real estate career with Century 21, where he spent 20 years before moving to REMAX. In 2014, he and two business partners purchased REMAX Associates, which was recognized in 2015 as one of the top 50 real estate offices in the United States. In 2020, they merged with REMAX Properties East, and Joe continued leading his team with the same dedication and expertise that has defined his career. Since forming the Joe Simms Group in 2003, his team has been ranked among REMAX Kentucky's top 10 sales teams every year.
Beyond his business, Joe has made significant contributions to the real estate industry. He has served as Vice President of the Greater Louisville Association of Realtors (GLAR) for three terms and was President in 2007. His involvement extends to the Kentucky Association of Realtors (KAR) and a three-year term as a National Director for the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Additionally, he has played an active role in the Home Builders Association of Louisville, serving as an Associate Vice President in 2019.
What Sets Joe Apart?
With over 45 years of experience, Joe has navigated every market shift—from the high interest rates of the 1980s to the housing downturn of 2008-2010. To stay ahead, he enrolled in a real estate coaching program with The Buffini Company, earning his team the Certified Full Service Professional (CFSP) designation. His team now boasts a combined 140 years of experience, ensuring clients receive top-tier service and expert guidance.
With over 45 years of experience, Joe has navigated every market shift—from the high interest rates of the 1980s to the housing downturn of 2008-2010. To stay ahead, he enrolled in a real estate coaching program with The Buffini Company, earning his team the Certified Full Service Professional (CFSP) designation. His team now boasts a combined 140 years of experience, ensuring clients receive top-tier service and expert guidance.
Advice for Home Buyers and Sellers
Joe emphasizes the importance of selecting the right real estate professional. "Buying or selling a home is a significant decision, and marketing real estate has become more complex over the years. I always recommend interviewing multiple agents to compare their experience, knowledge, and marketing strategies to ensure a seamless transaction with the best results."
Joe emphasizes the importance of selecting the right real estate professional. "Buying or selling a home is a significant decision, and marketing real estate has become more complex over the years. I always recommend interviewing multiple agents to compare their experience, knowledge, and marketing strategies to ensure a seamless transaction with the best results."
A Legacy of Excellence
Joe’s dedication to the industry has earned him numerous accolades, including being named REALTOR OF THE YEAR in 2008 and receiving the prestigious Wall of Honor Award from GLAR. In 2019, he was also recognized as the Associate of the Year by the Louisville Home Builders Association.
Joe’s dedication to the industry has earned him numerous accolades, including being named REALTOR OF THE YEAR in 2008 and receiving the prestigious Wall of Honor Award from GLAR. In 2019, he was also recognized as the Associate of the Year by the Louisville Home Builders Association.
Through decades of industry expertise, a commitment to professional growth, and a passion for serving his clients, Joe Simms continues to be a leader in Louisville’s real estate market. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, Joe and his team at REMAX Properties East are ready to help you achieve your real estate goals.
For more information, contact Joe Simms at JosephSimms@remax.net or (502) 296-7325.