Name: Maria DeLeon

Title: Associate Broker

Company: RE/MAX Center John’s Creek

What was your first job in the realty industry? RE/MAX in 1987

Where did you grow up? Atlanta

Growing up, what did you want to be? An engineer, architect, or interior designer

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Cycling

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Elon Musk to discuss the future of Artificial Intelligence and space travel

Where is your favorite place to hang out? A bookstore, by the ocean or under the shade of a willow tree by a river

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I always put my client’s interests above my own.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Real estate is a very dynamic industry and can be extremely emotional to clients. I don’t enjoy breaking bad news to clients, but it’s a necessary evil. Being 100% honest and upfront helps families make better decisions.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? 90% of my business comes from referrals from past clients and people I’ve met through the years.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Riding 150 miles in two days on my bicycle and selling 14 homes in three weeks

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

What is your favorite restaurant? Miller Union

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. It’s one big jigsaw puzzle — absolutely amazing.

What kind of car do you drive? White Lexus

Smartphone or paper? Smartphone

What is your favorite city after Atlanta? Denver, CO

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Stay away from unethical and negative people. Always keep your word.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? RPR – REALTORS Property Resource