Name: Ken Covers
Title: Real Estate Advisor
Company: Engel & Völker Intown Atlanta
What was your first job in the realty industry? My first job in the industry was being a Realtor selling in the Atlanta Intown market, specifically the Morningside and Virginia Highland neighborhoods.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Barrington, IL, a northern suburb in Illinois.
Growing up, what did you want to be? I have always known I did not want to be bored. I never desired to work in corporate America.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? When I am stress I simply like to take a step back and put my phone down. Find a quiet place, even if it is only for five minutes, and remind myself I am bigger than the stressful situation or problem. I know there is always a solution to every stressful moment.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? I would like to have lunch with Oprah Winfrey. I admire her amazing journey for how she has been able to direct its course.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? My favorite place to hang out is what I call my soil therapy space-my garden. This is a no phone space where I get to see my hard work and sweat flourish.
What do you love most about the industry? I love that the real estate industry industry is never dull. I also love the impact I get to make in someone’s life. Purchasing or selling a house is such a monumental moment in everyone’s life and a good house can change your life.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I quickly realized that I had an instinct and eye for real estate. This great eye combined with my work ethic and a healthy does of spunk helps edge out most other agents.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? The level of my availably and personal time is the most difficult aspect of my job.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I think my sphere of influence and people that I have something in common with are my best way to network. Also, Engel & Völkers offers a great platform to network local, national, and international.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? I recently got involved in with Alzheimer’s Association and participated with the Dancing Stars of Atlanta fundraiser. My greatest accomplishment is being the highest fundraiser in this event’s history. I raised over $173,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association Georgia Chapter. My mother was diagnosed six years ago and was my inspiration. I felt powerless to my mother’s disease prior to my involvement with this organization.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? The last good book I read was written by the motivational speaker and author Dan Thurmon called Off Balance on Purpose. I attended the Engel & Völkers Exchange conference in Miami in 2017 and was able to see him perform live.
What is your favorite restaurant? My favorite restaurant is Little Bangkok off Cheshire Bridge.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? I am a huge fan of anything Spitzmiller & Norris designs here in Atlanta.
What kind of car do you drive? I drive a Range Rover LR4.
Smartphone or paper? I love both smartphone and paper.
What is your favorite city after Atlanta? Sedona, Arizona is one of my favorite cities.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Stop looking at your phone; everything is in front of you.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? My personalized Engel & Völkers app
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? I’m not on Twitter.