What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Probably the one right before switching careers. I was director of business development for an advertising and marketing agency. Just the environment and creativity that surrounded me is what I found so interesting.
Where did you grow up?
Detroit suburbs
Growing up, what did you want to be?
An architect. At the age of 9 I had a lap-size drafting table, and I would tell everyone I was going to be like Frank Lloyd Wright. I started university as an architecture major, then found out how much math was involved. My degree is in public administration. LOL
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
My husband and I escape to our cabin in Blue Ridge, where we are tucked in the trees at the top of a mountain. There is a moment traveling up the expressway where you see the ridges off in the distance, and in that moment, you can feel the stress starting to melt away.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Martha Stewart, and hopefully Snoop would be there. I mean, how fun would that be?
What is Atlanta’s best-kept secret?
It’s not really a secret, but Atlanta offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own vibe, which is great because it gives our clients options depending on what they are looking for.
What do you love most about the industry?
At the core, this industry is a relationship-based business where we as Realtors solve a problem that our clients have. That means every day is different and challenging, which keeps things interesting.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
Service. Sounds cliché, but many agents haven’t grasped that concept, unfortunately. From start to finish, I provide the experience a client needs for trust and a level of service that they can feel. In addition, I work closely with our associations to advocate for private property rights and our industry, something that only a small percentage of Realtors do.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Acknowledging that certain aspects of the process are out of my control but having a solid team to work with certainly helps make it easier.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Step into spaces that allow you to have more conversations, make connections and build relationships. It takes time, but my business has been built on that strategy, and I would not have it any other way.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
Probably not a surprise but anything design related. Lately it has been Castle Impossible. It’s a European renovation, castle-style.
What’s your favorite meal in Atlanta?
Just one? I will say this: I am all about the restaurants that are independently owned, with creative menus, with unique vibes. Just really no seafood please, not really a fan which especially pains my husband, as he is.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta?
Probably Ponce City Market. I love how the developer maintained the historic nature of the building, then modernized it into something that draws people to it.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I was showing a house in Atlanta, at dusk, when a man came out of the wooded lot next to the house and collapsed on the front walk of the home. He later threw himself on the side of my car, 911 was called, it was a whole thing.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
I have a fear of water. Give me a pool any day. Lakes maybe, but if you want to see me panic, put me in an ocean and you will see. There are creatures that live in that space that will eat me. No thank you.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Italy. If I had to choose a specific area, Lake Como. The pace, the vibe, the landscape are everything.
What is your favorite city after Atlanta?
New York City. There is so much energy there and to be able to escape there for a long weekend, see a show, stroll around the park and eat some amazing food makes it one of my top favorite cities.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Implement systems and be consistent with everything you do.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
It’s a tie right now for me. The RPR app for quick and easy access to information about properties but also our new Home Platform at Coldwell Banker.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
I don’t have anyone specifically but anyone who posts lifestyle content, whether it be design, food or entertaining. Those catch my attention. Of course, there are some content creators that post nonsense that make me laugh, but those are few and far between.
Instagram and Facebook: @thenormkennedy