CR: Hi Allison, I’m so excited to catch up with you (about more than just business). Tell our readers a little about yourself and how you ended up in the world of real estate.
AW: In March 2021 I felt a nudge from within to go for something new and challenge myself to grow. I had a great corporate job as an account manager but COVID really morphed my views on working and how I wanted to live my life. Having more flexibility and the ability to be successful on my own terms was something I wanted. After living in Atlanta for several years at this point, I had really fallen in love with the real estate market here and spent an obsessive amount of time studying and watching the market over time. I decided to get my real estate license, finished that process in July, and haven’t looked back! I really enjoy the thrill of helping others with such a large piece of their lives (buying a home is major!) and getting to know each client and family has been a real gift.
In addition to being newly licensed, I am also newly married! As if working full time and studying for the real estate exam wasn’t enough – I also got married this summer to my husband, Collin! We currently live in Brookhaven with our labradoodle Jack (our pride + joy!) but have exciting plans to move very soon! 😉 I enjoy traveling, spending time in the mountains with my family, a refreshing Coke Zero, and consider myself a foodie and love trying new restaurants around the city!
CR: Talk about a busy 2021! You made a lot of major life changes and I’m so proud of how successful you are. You were definitely made to work in real estate! Also, I CANNOT wait for this move that’s happening soon. So many fun things happening in 2022! 😊 So we know why you chose the career, what made you pick eXp as your brokerage?
AW: I ultimately chose eXp because of their emphasis on multiple revenue streams + the supportive community that I found to join within it. Way before I even thought about real estate as a career I wanted to have multiple streams of revenue because it’s the best way to build wealth for my future family. The company model is built around this principle and was unlike anything else I had seen when interviewing other brokerages. I also love their focus on technology and modern approach to the industry. In our ever-evolving society they’re staying ahead of the curve when it comes to modernizing real estate.
I had been following along with you for a bit and began seeing the Modern Agent group grow as I was passing my exam. I knew real estate could be a lonely career at times so I loved that even within a cloud based brokerage there was a group of agents joining forces to simply be there for one another (the company model incentivizes this!). I felt less intimidated and more comfortable in my transition having so many agents to turn to for advice and guidance. As you know, I really wanted to join a team for the support, accountability, and comradery and I truly feel like I landed in the perfect place! My role within the Rutherford Group has challenged me and given me many opportunities to learn within such a short amount of time that has exceeded my expectations!
CR: I love that you saw the value before you began and you feel like you’ve made the right choice. I know, for our team, there couldn’t have been a better fit! I’m just so happy that you’re with us and have flourished in this role! Seriously, so thrilled to work with you every day! Now, for a couple of fun questions, what’s your favorite room in any house?
AW: Since I love to eat out I’m not going to say the kitchen! 😉 I think I’m going with the bedroom. I love nothing more than relaxing in my cozy bed with a good book, cup of coffee, or binging a favorite tv show. Having time to rest and unwind in a cozy space fills my cup after a long day!
CR: HA, Totally with you on the kitchen, they’re my favorite to look at, but NOT my favorite place to spend a lot of time. Also, I love my bedroom too, my favorite cozy spot! Now tell me about your home design style. How would you describe what you love?
AW: Ahh.. so fun! I’m definitely drawn to more traditional design but like to add in modern elements to balance things out. I also love incorporating some grand millennial pieces (give me all of the blue and white china!) into my home because I think it’s timeless and a fun thing to collect and add throughout your space over time.
CR: Definitely. I love a good mix of classic and modern and can’t wait to see how you incorporate your style into homes you may design in the future. 😉 Now, my last question. I like seeing what other agents are reading so tell me your favorite professional development book.
AW: I’ve always really liked How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie! Currently, I’ve found myself re-reading The Seven Levels of Communication by Michael J. Maher. It’s an easy read but so beneficial to understanding how others want to be communicated with so I can better serve them and reach them in a way that’s most beneficial for them.
CR: I love The Seven Levels of Communication and think every agent should read it! Definitely recommend it to every agent I work with! So good! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me Allison, I really appreciate it and you! Can’t wait to see all this year holds for you!