What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Selling F-16s and C-130s, foreign military sales
Where did you grow up?
Greenville, South Carolina
Growing up, what did you want to be?
Garbage truck man
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Glass of wine
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Ronald Reagan. He is my favorite president of all time.
What is Atlanta’s best-kept secret?
Team Whitner
What do you love most about the industry?
You’re only limited by how hard you’re willing to work.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I volunteer within my industry.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Dealing with a buyer or seller who isn’t really motivated.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Reach out to your sphere of influence.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
Anything on expansion and growth of teams.
What’s your favorite meal in Atlanta?
Steak from STK
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta?
The King & Queen Buildings
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
After going to work at 7 a.m. and not leaving till 9 a.m. the next morning, I went home, showered and returned just after 12 p.m. The human resources lady asked me why I was coming in at noon.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I am a Republican.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Any foreign country with my wife. We like to get out and hang with the locals and experience their culture and food.
What is your favorite city after Atlanta?
Greenville, South Carolina. My hometown.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Don’t give up!
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Homes.com
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Craigatlanta
Dr. Lee
What are your social media handles?
Instagram: teamwhitnerrealestate, reagentofchoice
LinkedIn: derekwhitner
Facebook: TeamWhitner