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

I worked in healthcare for 22 years prior to going into real estate. My most interesting job was director of audit and education for a large health system. 

Where did you grow up? 

Toledo, Ohio 

Growing up, what did you want to be? 

I wanted to be general counsel for a health system. 

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

I try to start every day with yoga and meditation to ward off stress before it arrives. I really notice a difference when I don’t start my day that way. 

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

Rachel Rodgers. She is a phenomenal business woman, and I want to soak up some of that knowledge. 

What is Atlanta’s best-kept secret? 

I’ll go with downtown Sugar Hill. I say this because there are several great casual restaurants, really good ice cream, easy parking and outdoor seating to people-watch.  It is the perfect place for an easy afternoon outing with the family or solo. 

What do you love most about the industry? 

I love that the possibilities are endless.  You get out of this career what you put into it. 

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? 

As I am a newer agent, I am trying to focus on the area that I am most familiar with rather than trying to “be everything to everybody.”  I’m sure that time and experience will allow me to expand my territory, but for now, I am focused on being an expert in Gwinnett County. 

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? 

For many reasons, I would say lead conversion. Lead conversion requires a lot of skill and patience. 

What’s your best advice for generating new leads? 

Learn how to use social media, and make it work for you. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Ask for referrals. Make sure that your sphere of influence knows that you are in real estate. Don’t be a secret agent! 

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

I am just wrapping up my Christmas movie marathon. I watch Christmas movies every day from mid-November through Christmas. I’m currently reading None of This is True by Lisa Jewell. I love a good suspense/thriller book. 

What’s your favorite meal in Atlanta? 

I can eat Mexican food every day. A couple of my favorites (right now) are Tequila Mama and RReal Tacos. 

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? 

I don’t really have a favorite building in Atlanta, but I like the “Batman Building” in Midtown. It is a beautiful, modern structure. 

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

I was showing a home. The owner was home, she introduced herself and went into the family room to wait for us to finish. She didn’t tell us that other people were also in the home in various other rooms. 

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

I have an adult son. 

What is your favorite vacation spot and why? 

I love the beach along the coast of North and South Carolina. I don’t have a favorite, but we tend to visit Carolina Beach more than the others. It’s a great family friendly beach with a boardwalk. 

What is your favorite city after Atlanta? 

New York. There is something energizing about the city. I feel like someone has placed a battery in my back every time I visit the city. 

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

Put fear aside, and get after it! 

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

Forewarn 

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media? 

@dr.evab @changeurperception @jackieunfiltered @jayshetty 

What are your social media handles? 

Instagram and Facebook: @lenasellsgwinnett