C. Mark Willix is the associate broker for Willix Real Estate Group of Maximum One Realty in Metro Atlanta.

What was your first job in the realty industry? Salesperson. I had no prior experience aside from purchasing my home when I became licensed. I had an interest dating back some 15 years at that time, and I decided to pursue the career as a means to get out of a dead-end job; also, I knew I could do a better job than the agent that represented me on the purchase of my home.

Where did you grow up? Suburban Atlanta, Georgia. Smyrna, to be exact.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Cook a huge meal.

Growing up, what did you want to be? Loretta Lynn.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Patsy Cline. Why? Have you heard her sing?

Where is your favorite place to hang out? Home, or anywhere that feels like home, meaning a house full of friends and selected family.

What do you love most about the industry? It’s never dull. Every day is a new challenge to learn something new.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? It’s none of my business what anyone thinks of me. So I’m just me. I don’t consciously do anything to set myself a part.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? My inability to control everything, and trying to remain calm when a co-operating agent, lender or some other party involved in the transaction doesn’t fulfill their responsibilities.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients?  Social media, first and foremost.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Managing to live this long without someone killing me. Sarcasm flows freely with me. And professionally, meeting my original goal of becoming a licensed broker.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? The last movie I saw was Saving Mr. Banks. I enjoyed it. It was not at all what I thought it would be. 

What is your favorite restaurant? My own kitchen.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Atlanta? The Big Chicken.

What kind of car do you drive? Depends on the day. Either a jalapeno green Chevy Spark or a red Chevy Cavalier.

Smartphone or paper? Both. I don’t know how I lived without a smartphone, yet I keep spiral notebooks at my side at all times.

What is your favorite city after Atlanta? Nashville, Tennessee.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Educate yourself. Know your contracts and obligations.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? FMLS Forms Pro Mobile and e-Sign. I love being able to prepare and sign docs on the fly with my phone or tablet.

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? I follow nearly 500 tweeters, though some favorites are Cher and Kathy Griffin.

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