When Christi Key describes her success in real estate, she doesn’t use the word “I.” Instead, the Atlanta native and 10-year industry veteran looks at success and service to clients in terms of “we,” meaning the team she leads as CEO of The Key Group. The team approach, Key says, enables every client to receive the highest level of service.

“We are never spread too thin and are always available,” Key says. “We have listing specialists and buyer specialists who are working at a high level every single day. We also function as a team at all times. We know what is going on with every client so that if an agent is away, someone else on the team can step in and not miss a beat.”

In addition to the team, Key points to experience as critical to success in real estate. “Experience, networking and staying on top of the market daily equates to success for your clients,” she insists. “Strategy is everything, and the more experience you have, the better your strategies become.”

Key’s team mentality applies not only to her own agents and support staff, but also to all of the industry professionals that work together to help The Key Group’s clients reach their real estate goals. Contributing to others’ success is a point of pride for this former teacher turned Realtor. “Providing opportunities for vendors, lenders and so on not only serves our clients, but also creates opportunities for success and growth for a vast network of others,” she says.

Next to their families, The Key Group’s clients matter most to them, Key says. She nurtures client relationships and often hosts special events to bring those clients together. When not with them, she enjoys hosting friends and family in her home and traveling with her grown children.