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

I used to work for partners of a law firm. I loved that opportunity because it provided me with a wealth of knowledge and information I was able to use in life, right up until today. 

Where did you grow up? 

I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and relocated to Atlanta with my husband and our daughter in 1993. It was one of the best decisions that we could have made. 

Growing up, what did you want to be? 

I wanted to be a business attorney. Unfortunately, my mom was not able to afford me the opportunity, but I always knew I would be successful, no matter what endeavor I embarked upon. 

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

I tend to either ride my motorcycle or go to a nice quiet place, like the park, roll down my windows, kick off my shoes and just sit back and meditate and pray. 

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

I would have loved to meet Maya Angelou. She wrote about things people actually experienced in life and could make people feel that it’s OK to get back up and try again, there is no such thing as failure. 

What is Atlanta’s best-kept secret? 

Myself and my brokerage. 

What do you love most about the industry? 

The opportunity to help people achieve the American dream. To help people who never thought that they would be able own the roof over their heads, own it. To help people who have always wanted to start a business or relocate a business to their own brick and mortar. When my sister and I were younger, we moved around a lot, and sometimes came home to find that we did not have a place to stay anymore. I always vowed that if I were able to, I would make sure that did not happen to anyone else. I love the people that I serve and the fact that I make such a difference in their lives through experience, education and excellence. I know that I am walking in my calling because it is something that I would do at no charge if I were in that financial position. 

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? 

First, I stay knowledgeable and up-to-date on the happenings in the market. I was not happy with going from an agent to a Realtor. I had to go and continue on to become a real estate broker so that I could own my own company and break the bondage of being under someone else’s control. I am certified in multiple areas within the real estate industry including luxury homes, townhomes, condos and new construction. I am a preferred real estate broker to work with veterans. I am passionate, I am dedicated, I am honest, and real estate is not just my profession. It is my passion, and I demonstrate that within every real estate opportunity that I undertake. 

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? 

Having to tell someone that they are not ready just yet. That is because I am so passionate about what I do that I want everyone to be able to accomplish their goals right now. However, anyone who has ever worked with me, who had to wait a while to get situations and circumstances organized, know that I would be right there when the time came to take that leap of faith. 

What’s your best advice for generating new leads? 

Keep great relationships and open lines of communication. Stay in communication with your past customers and clients and perform top notch so that referrals will be in your future. Don’t be afraid to ask for business. Make sure that your online presence is strong, and make sure to ask for reviews. In other words, don’t be a secret agent. Let people know who you are, what you represent and what your capabilities are. 

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

I do not binge watch TV, and I tend to read spiritual books and self-help books. I listen to modern jazz, gospel music and sometimes oldies. It tends to take me back to great memories of growing up and family that were so instrumental in my life.

What’s your favorite meal in Atlanta?

I do not really have a favorite meal in Atlanta because we have so many great food options. I am not very difficult to please as long as the food establishment is clean, and the food is well prepared. I guess I will say Ruth’s Chris with a nice lamb chop or two is one of my favorite meals.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta?

The Pinnacle building by Lenox Square.

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

Once, when preparing a home for a showing, I met my clients in person for the first time and found them to be a man six-foot seven and a woman six-foot four. I suddenly felt like the main character in the movie Honey I Shrunk the Kids. They tried to make me feel comfortable, and the husband cracked a joke and asked me if I wanted a piggyback ride around the house. What a way to break the ice.

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

My age because I’m 58 years old and ride a crotch-rocket motorcycle.

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?

Saint Martin. it is such a peaceful and friendly island with lots of things to do. It is so nice to go there and  decompress as much as possible when you are a business owner and just spend time off of the radar.

What is your favorite city after Atlanta?

Conyers. I live in Conyers, I have two offices located in Conyers, and I am very proactive in Conyers. I serve on the governing board and am an ambassador chair for the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce. I also serve as a co-chair for our networking group in Conyers. I am extremely proud of my city. I just won the best of the best real estate broker and the best of the best real estate brokerage in Rockdale and Newton counties in October.

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

Get into real estate for the passion, not the proceeds.

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

Hands down, my favorite app is GAMLS.

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?

I like to follow my husband and my daughter. They are both movers and shakers in the community, and I love to see what they’re up to during the day, since we are all very busy and don’t always have time for telephone calls. 

What are your social media handles?

Integrity Professionals Realty

BridgetBenito