Meet Arlene Dizon | Realtor & Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Arlene Dizon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arlene, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business felt like a natural step because it allowed me to have more control over what I do and how I do it. This was an opportunity to provide personalized service, build long-lasting relationships and create a positive impact in the community. I wanted the flexibility to work on my own terms and build a business that aligns with my values and goals. I also wanted the freedom to explore my ideas and innovate without being constrained by a specific corporate structure. Plus, I enjoy the challenge of building something from scratch and seeing it grow and succeed.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My career started off working in the corporate world from financing, retail, food & beverage to the travel industry while running a business as a make-up artist specializing in weddings and special events. I went on to become a partner and VP of Operations & Supplier Relations for one of the largest student travel companies in Canada handling the air & hotel contracting for the US & Caribbean destinations. This played a vital part of my career, it gave me the opportunity to build relationships with suppliers from different countries, travelled and explored the destinations offered. I gained experience in strategic planning, financial management, quality assurance, supply chain management, oversee day to day operations, team leadership and more. It was a handful but rewarding. After 8 years in that role, I knew there was more for me. I took a leap of faith, leaving behind my family, friends, career in Toronto, Canada and moved to Atlanta, Georgia. I opened up a dog training & boarding facility. I have a passion for animals, particularly dogs and wanted to create a business that aligns with my interests and values. Additionally, I saw a market opportunity to provide high-quality training and care services for pets, recognizing the growing demand for professional and reliable facilities in my area. Fast forward to today, while my dog business is still up and running, I wanted to venture into real estate. I took the course, passed and joined Coldwell Banker Realty as a Realtor and in the same year purchased my first investment property. I established my real estate business with a focus on providing exceptional service and value to my clients. My business is built on integrity, professionalism and a strong work ethic, which has earned me a reputation as a trusted and reliable Realtor in my community. After my first year, I was recognized as the “Top Rookie of the Year” in the company, awarded the International Sterling Society Award (Top 11% of sales associate in the entire Coldwell Banker network), A nominee for Atlanta Agent Magazine “Rookie of the Year” and 2024 Interiors Atlanta “One to Watch”, became a certified Commercial real estate agent and Luxury Property Specialist. My clients have become my forever friends and family. The joy I have seeing the biggest smile on their faces and to be able to be a part of their home journey makes my job so worth it, it’s priceless.

Starting a business from the ground up, building clientele, marketing, doing it all by yourself all while relying on that business for income is not for the weak. When challenges arise, maintain a positive mindset, assess the situation, break down the problem then devise a strategic plan of action. I leverage my past experiences and learnings to come up with creative solutions. One thing I would tell people when opening up a business is you gotta do the work, have a lot of faith, trust the process and the blessings will come.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Some of my favorite brunch spots are Breakfast at Barney’s, The Brunch Apothecary, Just Brunch, Rock South and Toast on Lenox.

If I’m looking for home cooked filipino cuisine, it would definitely be Kamayan, Kuya’s Food Express and Estrellita.

My friends and I do love some retail therapy, I would take them to shops at Little 5 points, Phipps Plaza, Atlantic Station, Ponce City Market.

For dinner, I would take to my favorite spots such as Nobu, Yao Atl, Tulum, Poor Calvin’s, Saints + Council, Knife Modern

When it comes to doing something fun, I’m always up for music festivals (such as RnB Soul Picnic and OneMusic Fest), live bands, karaoke night, latin dancing and a great hookah spot.

Lastly, I would take them on my motorcycle and ride up north to the mountains such as Suches, Helen, Talking Rock, Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Hiawassee

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I give all the glory and praise to God for His infinite blessings and guidance throughout my journey. It is through His grace that I have been given strength in times of challenge, wisdom in times of decision-making and perseverance in pursing my goals. Second, I would not have the grit and hustle without the life lessons from my parents as immigrants from the Philippines. Growing up with humble beginnings has been an integral part of my journey, shaping who I am today and fueling my drive for success. I come from a background where resources were limited and opportunities were hard earned. However, this upbringing instilled in me invaluable lessons of resilience, determination and gratitude. It taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. I learned to appreciate every small victory and not take anything for granted. Each obstacle I faced became a stepping stone towards my goals, pushing me to strive for excellence in everything I do. Last but not least, my family and friends who continue to support and encourage me on a daily basis. They are my forever tribe!

Additionally, I do want to give a shoutout to the groups I am heavily apart of; as the Vice President of The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce, we are dedicated to building a vibrant Filipino-American business community with entrepreneurs, owners, professionals and students.. It provides a a platform for networking, business development and seminars, culture awareness and more. And, as a founder of a female motorcycle group “The Litas Lake Lanier”, we inspire and empower women through community and our shared love of motorcycles.

Website: www.arlenedizonrealtor.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arlene_therealtor/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arlene-dizon-5a734321/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Arlene-Dizon-Realtor-100087487536311/