Shelley Robert is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential in Atlanta

What was your first job in the realty industry? I started on the new construction side of the industry. We built residential and low-rise office buildings. I was responsible for all of the office work, but was also on site daily and worked very closely with my husband. We were a true “Mom and Pop” business.

Where did you grow up? In Atlanta, specifically Buckhead.

Growing up, what did you want to be? Probably a wife and mother, but then I grew up and realized I could be that and so much more.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Read, go for a walk and clean.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Kathryn Hepburn. I love her straightforwardness and lust for life. She was a force to be reckoned with.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? My front porch.

What do you love most about the industry? This is the most important purchase or sale in most anybody’s life. I take that very seriously, and understand that it is all about my buyer or seller, not me. Seeing the joy on a first-time homebuyers face is priceless. Negotiating a deal where it is a win/win for all parties is so important, and I strive to do this with all my clients.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? Being a native Atlantan has its perks. I have seen the city grow from a smallish town to this sprawling metropolis it is today. I know the city and its outlying areas like the back of my hand. I keep a close watch on the market daily so that when the question comes up, and it always does, “How’s the market in (fill in the blank),” I can answer truthfully and accurately.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Keeping my momentum going. I can never be too busy – the busier I am, the happier and better I am.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Neighborhood functions and the Chamber of Commerce. But honestly, I am always networking, even when getting my oil changed.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Raising my children when widowed at a young age.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? Mercy, I read so much its hard to pick just one. At the moment I am reading “The Big Short.” I believe it should be required reading for everyone in the real estate industry. My favorite movie is “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Its a great read as well.

What is your favorite restaurant? La Tavola in Virginia Highlands.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? The Biltmore

What kind of car do you drive? 528 BMW

Smartphone or paper? Smartphone all day, every day. I love my phone!

What is your favorite city after Atlanta? Seaside, FL

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? This is a job. You have to work.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Google Maps, CBX

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? There are so many funny ordinary people on Twitter. I like to follow them. I also follow other people in the industry. Gotta be careful with Twitter. Before you know it, you are down the rabbit hole – an hour has gone by and you have nothing to show for it.

Do you want to be featured in our Agent Snapshot? Fill out our questionnaire, and you’ll be featured too!