What was your most interesting job before going into real estate? I had a part-time job as a matchmaker — it was manual with little slips of paper that people mailed in. They gave me shoeboxes filled with the clients and a map.
Where did you grow up? New Jersey near the Jersey shore
Growing up, what did you want to be? When I was in first grade, I wanted to be a nun, then later a teacher.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Play in the garden, yoga, walking with friends, listen to music, read
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Rosa Parks – she was incredibly brave. I’d like to hear her story first-hand.
What is Atlanta’s best-kept secret? The Georgia Wine Country – there are over 40 wineries within a 2 hour drive of Atlanta.
What do you love most about the industry? The people I meet — clients, fellow agents, attorneys, lenders and contractors. Hard work but lots of flexibility. The days are never the same. I like that I am always learning new things and I get to be outside in addition to working in the office.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I have a reputation for superior communication and integrity. People trust me to work hard for them, and know that I put their needs and transaction first.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? The things I have no control over – when a house doesn’t appraise as expected, when the loan processing is running late, etc.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads? When people trust you they refer you. Building relationships is the cornerstone to this business — with clients, other agents and all the ancillary people involved in a real estate transaction.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately? Episodes The West Wing Live from Daryl’s House
What’s your favorite meal in Atlanta? Fish Thyme Restaurant
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? St. Mark’s UMC
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job? I was asked to fill in for another agent (who got fired by the client) at a closing, and the buyer (the client I was representing) and the builder’s agent got into a lengthy shouting match. It was a crazy scene.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you? I started the first recreation program for children with disabilities in my hometown.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why? The beach – any beach.
What is your favorite city after Atlanta? San Diego
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Work hard, do it full time, be consistent.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? InTouch
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media? Friends and family who are out of state so I can stay better connected with their lives in addition to phone calls.