What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?

I was a licensed funeral director/embalmer. Most people would not think about this as being a very rewarding job, but it is. When you hear a family say, “Mom looks great!” you know that last visual will be what they remember forever!

Where did you grow up?

On a farm in rural Mississippi.

Growing up, what did you want to be?

An international flight attendant.

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

If I can’t take a hike, I’ll go tend to my plants. I love gardening.

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?

Martin Luther King. I admire him for his courage and desire to make a change in such a peaceful way. He knew the risks, and yet he was willing to undertake the fight because of his convictions. Wow!

What is Atlanta’s best-kept secret?

The amount of hiking trails.

What do you love most about the industry?

I’m celebrating 30 years in this industry this year. It is a people business, and I am a people person! I transitioned to teaching full time this year because I want to help others enjoy the success I’ve had. The sky is the limit in this business.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?

I recently received the Mary S. Sheen Educator of the Year award from the Georgia Real Estate Educators Association at the annual school meeting at Calloway Gardens.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?

I want to answer this as an instructor. Most public schools these days teach to a test. As a pre-license instructor, you cannot do that, as it is a violation of Georgia License Law. It is very hard to get the student to understand THEY must read the material and study. There are approximately 800 licenses issued monthly, yet schools are full of pre-license students. This is a job. HGTV & other shows have not helped our industry by making it seem like this is a “get rich quick” opportunity.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?

I’m old school. As a new agent, it starts by passing out that new box of business cards to everyone you meet. Personal contact. There is an opportunity waiting everywhere you go: standing in line to get your coffee, opening a bank account, dropping your clothes off at the laundry, the postal worker, etc.

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?

Yellowstone, which led to 1883, the prequel. Talk about private property rights!

What’s your favorite meal in Atlanta?

Two Urban Licks. The salmon chips are a must!

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta?

Fox Theatre! I’m been a volunteer there for almost 15 years. It is a beautiful venue with a rich history,

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?

I have too many stories after 30 years in this industry. 

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?

That I was once Miss Mississippi!

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?

Shadow Lake Lodge in Canada. It’s a remote lodge with individual cabins outfitted with European down comforters, high thread-count sheets and a mattress you sink into. It takes most of the day to hike there from where you park your car. You’ll cover different types of terrain and lots of elevation. You need to be prepared for rain, snow and heat along the route. You will not find crowds on this trail. There are very few cabins. The food is 5 star! My favorite hike once you get to the lodge is to Shadow Lake. There are no words to describe the beauty of this place and the peace that surrounds you.

What is your favorite city after Atlanta?

Boulder, Colorado. Our daughter went to the University of Colorado at Boulder, so we got to know the place well. There’s great food. We love to hike and the Colorado Rockies are awesome!

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?

Pick a company that offers training!

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?

I don’t have just one.

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?

Instead of people I follow and read publications that affect the industry.