Meet Dr. Justin M. Lee, Sr. , Mba | Licensed General Contractor, Real Estate Broker, and Serial Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Justin M. Lee, Sr. , Mba and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Justin M., Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
The principle that matters most to me is integrity. Integrity forms the foundation of trust, which is essential in both my personal and professional life. As a General Contractor and Real Estate Broker, my clients rely on me to be honest, transparent, and reliable in every aspect of my work. Upholding integrity ensures that I deliver on my promises, provide consistent quality, and build lasting relationships based on mutual respect. It’s not just about doing what’s right when others are watching, but consistently making ethical decisions, even when no one is around. This principle guides me in every decision I make, reinforcing my commitment to excellence and earning the trust of those I serve.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business journey has been one of determination, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. I am the proud owner of J.M. Lee Construction Company, a minority-owned enterprise based in Decatur, GA, that provides comprehensive residential and commercial construction services. In addition to J.M. Lee Construction, I am also a Real Estate Broker and Co-Owner of Fleur De Lee Realty, LLC, alongside my brother, Austin Fleury. Our real estate firm specializes in guiding clients through the intricacies of buying and selling homes, with a focus on unparalleled customer service and market expertise.

What sets my businesses apart is our deep commitment to our clients and our communities. In construction, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and the ability to deliver projects on time and within budget. We understand that every project we take on represents a significant investment for our clients, and we treat each one with the care and dedication it deserves.

In real estate, our approach is client-centered. We listen carefully to our clients’ needs, offer expert advice, and go above and beyond to ensure their expectations are not just met but exceeded. My experience as a contractor gives me a unique advantage in real estate, allowing me to provide clients with insights that others might miss, particularly when it comes to the structural and long-term aspects of a property.

The journey to where I am today has not been easy. I’ve faced numerous challenges, from navigating the complexities of running multiple businesses to overcoming the barriers that often come with being a minority business owner. However, I’ve always been driven by the belief that with hard work, perseverance, and a focus on continuous learning, anything is possible.

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the importance of building strong relationships. Whether it’s with clients, business partners, or within the community, the relationships I’ve cultivated have been instrumental in my success. I’ve also learned that embracing challenges is a part of growth. Every obstacle I’ve faced has taught me something valuable and has prepared me for the next step in my journey.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that we are more than just a construction company or a real estate firm. We are a family-owned business that is deeply rooted in our values of integrity, quality, and community. Our goal is not just to complete projects or close deals but to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of the people we serve.

I am excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead, particularly my aspiration to develop and construct my own apartment complexes and neighborhoods. This vision is a natural extension of my passion for real estate and construction, and I look forward to continuing to build a legacy that will benefit future generations.

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.
If my best friend were visiting, and we had the opportunity to explore Africa together, it would be an unforgettable adventure filled with culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s how I’d plan out an incredible week-long trip:

### Day 1-2: **Cape Town, South Africa**
– **Table Mountain:** We’d kick off the trip by taking the cable car up to Table Mountain for panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding ocean. It’s the perfect way to get a sense of the natural beauty that Africa has to offer.
– **V&A Waterfront:** After descending the mountain, we’d explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront, enjoying some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants with ocean views. We might even take a boat trip to Robben Island to visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was held.
– **Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch:** We’d spend a day touring the Stellenbosch wine region, sampling some of South Africa’s finest wines, and enjoying a leisurely lunch in the vineyards.

### Day 3-4: **Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia**
– **Victoria Falls:** A visit to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World is a must. We’d experience the awe-inspiring power and beauty of Victoria Falls, known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders.” We could take a helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view or go on a guided walking tour to feel the mist on our faces.
– **Zambezi River Cruise:** In the evening, we’d take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, spotting wildlife like hippos and crocodiles while enjoying the stunning sunset with a drink in hand.

### Day 5: **Serengeti National Park, Tanzania**
– **Safari Adventure:** Next, we’d head to Tanzania for a once-in-a-lifetime safari in the Serengeti. We’d spend the day exploring the vast savannahs, spotting the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo), and witnessing the incredible Great Migration if the timing is right.
– **Luxury Tented Camp:** We’d stay overnight in a luxury tented camp, where we could enjoy dinner under the stars and listen to the sounds of the African wilderness.

### Day 6: **Stone Town, Zanzibar**
– **Historical Tour:** We’d take a flight to Zanzibar and explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history and vibrant culture. We’d wander through the narrow streets, visit the Sultan’s Palace, and explore the local markets.
– **Spice Tour:** Zanzibar is famous for its spices, so we’d take a spice tour to learn about the island’s role in the spice trade and taste fresh cloves, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices.

### Day 7: **Zanzibar Beaches**
– **Relaxation at Nungwi Beach:** We’d spend our final day unwinding on one of Zanzibar’s stunning beaches, like Nungwi or Kendwa. Crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and palm trees would provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation.
– **Snorkeling or Diving:** If we’re up for some adventure, we might go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
– **Farewell Dinner:** We’d end our trip with a farewell dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and reflecting on the incredible memories we’ve made.

This itinerary would offer a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, showcasing some of Africa’s most iconic destinations. The continent has so much to offer, and sharing these experiences with my best friend would make for an unforgettable journey.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In this Shoutout series, I’d like to dedicate my recognition to a few key people who have played a significant role in my journey. First, my mother, Diedra Thibodeaux, who exposed me to the worlds of real estate and entrepreneurship, laying the foundation for my career. My uncle, Tony “Albert” Thibodeaux, ESQ, introduced me to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated and emphasized the importance of education, which has been instrumental in shaping my values.

A special shoutout goes to my big brother, Cliff Palmer, who taught me how to scale my entrepreneurial ventures, be an outstanding father, and build wealth while staying true to myself. My brother, Austin Fleury, deserves recognition for believing in me and helping to bring my visions to life.

I also want to honor my late grandparents, Thelma and Albert Thibodeaux Jr., who dedicated their lives to ensuring that their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren had everything they needed and more. My father, Alvin L. Lee III, has provided me with unwavering support, and my son, Justin M. Lee, Jr., has been my biggest motivation to keep growing.

Finally, I want to thank Morehouse College and my brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, who have been a constant source of brotherhood, support, and inspiration throughout my journey.

Website: https://www.justinmleesr.com

Instagram: @jleetherealtor