Kym Howie is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Atlanta in Cobb County
What was your first job in the realty industry? I began in commercial property management. I went to work part time for a company to answer their phones and worked 12 hours the first day. I have not slowed down since.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in East Cobb in the Merchants Walk area. When we moved in near Walton High School, there were no subdivisions in the area. What a great experience to watch them go up, but to also know the history of the land.
Growing up, what did you want to be? That’s easy – the boss. I would think of something that would be interesting to do, and then figure out how to get the top.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I love photography. We have a lake in our backyard, and there is always wildlife or one of my kids to snap a picture of.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? I would love to have lunch with Dolly Parton. Has anyone ever been so underestimated, but went on to have such lasting success? I don’t really listen to her music, but I do love a lot of the songs she has written. Her business sense is amazing. Everyone knows she started Dollywood, but did you know she has numerous other successful businesses. What I admire most is her reaction when people doubt her. She laughs along with them…all the way to the bank.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? My house. I am a homebody, but love to have people over. On any given weekend during the summer, there are 20 or more people here for an afternoon of riding ATV’s, paddle boarding, fishing or relaxing by the lake. My husband and I love to entertain, so there is always something amazing for dinner.
What do you love most about the industry? The people I meet. I know, I know, everyone says that, but it seriously is what I love. When I went to work for Walton Communities, I had the opportunity to lease apartments. I didn’t have a clue that helping find someone a home that they loved would fill a bucket that I didn’t even know that I had. Finding someone their dream home is so gratifying. It keeps me wanting more!
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? Passion. I think that when you really love what you do, people are drawn to you. I focus on listening to what people are talking about, and get involved with their discussion by asking detailed questions. Before you know it, I have a new friend!
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Wanting to help people who are not quite ready to get a home, but really want one. It is hard when you meet people and connect with them, but they cannot get approved for a loan. We have started using Home Partners, and we can sometimes get them approved through them. When you can’t, it’s sad, but suggesting that they speak with a credit counselor to work on their score feels like you are helping them, and they appreciate that.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I love to learn, so going to hear fascinating speakers is a great place to meet people that you have something in common with. Chamber of Commerce events, church events and community events are good, too. I look for clients who mean more than just a sale, so anyone that I connect with is a potential client. I meet people everywhere, and I either make a future connection or try to make someone’s day a little better. I win either way.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? My kids are my greatest accomplishment. I know everyone says that, but shouldn’t they be? I have worked diligently to encourage my kids to be leaders of their community and be the future leaders of the world. My oldest followed in my footsteps, and is a property manager for Walton Communities. My 14-year-old daughter has a non-profit organization that encourages teens to pledge their birthday presents to those in need. She has just finished collecting two truckloads of books to send to English-speaking schools in Africa. My 10-year-old son has aspirations of being the biggest motocross rider in the world. Hey, you can’t win them all, but I keep encouraging his creative side and feel like he will do something spectacular with his life!
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I am currently reading “Mindset – The New Psychology of Success” by Carol Dweck. I know, I’m a nerd. It is about how we can learn to fulfill our potential, create a love of learning and a resilience that is the basis of great accomplishment in every area.
What is your favorite restaurant? Kouzina Christo’s in Marietta. It has been a favorite for years, and it is consistently good! The calzone and junior Greek salad cannot be beat!
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? I love the classic style of the Georgia State Capital. You just know that history has happened there. It is covered with gold from Dehlonega, and the floors are marble from Pickens County. It reminds me of the history, yet if you visit there, it has the hustle and bustle of modern day.
What kind of car do you drive? Mercedes S550
Smartphone or paper? Both. I love my smart phone for quick reminders, but there is something freeing about writing everything down. Sometimes, a journal is more than just a journal. You are more likely to express emotion in a journal and remember writing it. We are always clicking on our phones and very rarely remember the feeling that it involved. When discussing past homes that I have shown a client, it is nice to have it all written out, so that they see you took the time to note their likes and dislikes. It just seems more personal.
What is your favorite city after Atlanta? Washington D.C. – I love the museums and the history.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Always ask for referrals and work hard.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? I am learning to use Videolicious and am having a great time with it! People love to see videos, and you are able to show them your personality through video. It’s a wonderful tool.
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? Ike Reighard, John Maxwell, realtor.com, Coldwell Banker, Zig Ziglar, Clark Howard, USA Today, The Walking Dead and Fox 5 Atlanta.
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