How I Transitioned from Interior Design to Real Estate: My Journey

When I reflect on how I got into real estate, it’s clear that this career path was always quietly calling me, even when I was pursuing other interests. My journey into the world of real estate wasn’t straightforward—it was a series of gradual realizations and brave decisions that ultimately led me to where I am today.

Early Career: From Interior Design to Real Estate Curiosity

After high school, I attended the University of Georgia, where I went through a few changes in my major before finally settling on interior design. I was drawn to the creativity and the opportunity to shape spaces that people would love. After graduation, I worked in design firms, primarily focusing on designing hotels and country clubs. It was a fulfilling career, but there was always something in the back of my mind—real estate.

The spark first ignited when I bought my first home. My real estate agent was fantastic, and I admired the way he handled everything. Around the same time, I noticed a woman down the street who was also a real estate agent, and I found myself thinking, “I wish I did what they do.” But I was caught up in the belief that you stick with what you studied—you stay the course.

The Shift: Exploring Real Estate

As time went on, I began to feel the urge for a change. I wanted something more, something that aligned with the passion I felt whenever I thought about real estate. I started by taking a few people to lunch, including Rob, to pick their brains about how they transitioned into real estate. I was curious about how they made the leap from their previous careers and what steps they took to succeed.

Even after those conversations, I hesitated for about six more months. I was still cautious, still unsure if I could make such a significant career change. Finally, I decided to take the plunge. I signed up for online classes to get my real estate license. Deep down, I knew this was a passion I had always harbored. I loved houses, the process of buying and selling, and everything in between.

Getting Started: My First Deals and Joining KW

When I was midway through my real estate classes, Rob suggested it was the right time to start talking to brokerages. I reached out to Mark Jones, who leads our brokerage at KW Intown, and he was incredibly welcoming. I also contacted another brokerage, but they didn’t get back to me, which made it clear that KW was where I was meant to be. Mark was enthusiastic and supportive, and the training I received at KW has been instrumental in my success.

Once I got my license, I realized there was much more to learn. My first several deals involved clients who needed to sell their current home and buy a new one, so I dove in headfirst. I was fortunate to have chosen Keller Williams (KW) as my brokerage, which has an incredible educational program. I went through their coaching, did everything they told me to do, and learned the ropes quickly. My early transactions were often double-sided, meaning I helped clients both sell and buy homes—a challenging but rewarding experience.

Around this time, Rob was looking to bring on a buyer’s agent for his team, which aligned perfectly with my love for working with buyers. I enjoy helping people find their dream homes, and this role allowed me to do just that.

Looking Back: Why It Was All Worth It

Today, I can confidently say that transitioning into real estate was the right move. It wasn’t just about finding a new job—it was about pursuing a passion that had been with me all along. The support and training I received at KW, combined with the mentorship from Rob and others, have been critical to my growth in this industry. I love what I do, and I’m grateful for every step that brought me here.

For anyone considering a career change, especially into real estate, my advice is to follow your passion. Take the leap, even if it seems daunting. With the right support and a willingness to learn, you can find success in a field that truly excites you.