International Church Realty

Carol Gray

Carol taught school for 9 years before joining her sister, Mary Phillips, in commercial real estate in 1978. After Mary lost her battle with breast cancer in February 2000, Carol decided to continue in her footsteps and specialize in the sale of religious properties. Growing up in a Christian home and being an active member of her church, she understands the politics, government, and emotions of church operations. Many years of experience with church real estate has given her knowledge and respect of other religions as well. Carol has always said "I can’t sing or preach, but I know real estate and can help churches with their real estate needs - this is truly a ministry for me".

Christina Hipps

Christina received her bachelor’s degree in Marine Fisheries from Texas A&M in Galveston, Texas in 1993. After working in the field of marine biology for several years and a 2 year sabbatical in the Cayman Islands, Christina decided to join her mother, Carol, in May 2000 and work in the church real estate business and assist her on all real estate transactions. Christina says she admired her Aunt Mary and feels honored to continue in the ministry of helping churches with their needs.

Mary Phillips (1933-2000) - A Special Tribute
Phillips International Company

Mary Phillips, also known as the 'Church Lady', was a legend in her own time. Mary was one of the first women in commercial real estate in the early 1970’s. She founded The National Association of Women in Commercial Real Estate, a non-profit organization geared to promoting and educating other women in commercial real estate.In 1980 Mary was invited to the White House to participate in the Special Task Force For Women to discuss the real estate problems, and opportunities facing women. She was listed in 'Who’s Who of American Women' and 'Who’s Who of Houston'. Mary also was appointed by Mayor Kathy Whitmire to serve a 2-year term as a Planning Commissioner in the City of Houston Planning Department.In 1986 the Houston economy was going through a difficult period, being a devout Christian, Mary decided to change her company’s direction and specialize in selling churches and land for new church sites. Phillips International Company became the first real estate company in Houston to specialize in religious properties. Mary was instrumental in helping over a hundred churches and religious organizations fulfill their dreams.Mary Phillips will be remembered as a pioneer, as an entrepreneur, as a woman of integrity, but most of all as the 'Church Lady'.