My Journey in Real Estate

Words by Alice Leeth | Images by Ryan McGill

Don’t hide your light. Let it shine for all, let your good deeds glow for all; to see so they will praise your Heavenly Father. - Matthew 5:15-16

Real estate has always fascinated me.

After working in management roles in the fast-food industry for 31 years, I knew I wanted to continue serving others when I retired. In 2016, a member of the gym I worked at encouraged me to lean into that fascination and pursue a career in real estate. That same year, I took an online course with Mark Yarbrough Real Estate School, the oldest and largest provider of Real Estate Education in the State of Alabama. The following year I passed the Alabama Real Estate State exam, and since then, I have grown and learned so much while working in real estate.

I am passionate about serving others, helping buyers discover their dream homes, and helping sellers to market and sell their properties. I love helping clients understand the intricacies of the buying process and seeing their joy when they close on a home.

Although real estate can be challenging, working with a client you become close to is gratifying. Every transaction is different because of each client's unique situation, and sometimes that means facing a challenge. Still, I have learned to bounce back from challenges and take them on with determination.

Throughout my 5 ½ years in real estate, I have realized that setting expectations starts with understanding my own ‘why’ and having the motivation and determination to fulfill my purpose. I have come a long way from being shy and introverted to being bold, courageous, and confident.

My journey in real estate has been incredibly rewarding. I am honored to have been recognized as one of the top agents in the Realty South Office, where I presently work, in four different months throughout 2022.

Real estate is my purpose in life, but outside of work, I love working with Durr's New Life Community Outreach Ministry, which distributes clothing to the community and food to emergency families in need, as well as substitute teaching for the Jasper City School System.

Through it all, God has always made a way for me, and I have learned to serve with patience and not listen to the small voices in my head telling me that the odds are against me. I believe that my story is a sign of God's strength, and that 2023 will be a landmark year in my career. The biggest part of achieving success is believing in yourself, staying focused, and staying positive. That’s how I am able to shine my light. 78