Meet Jillian Smith | Realtor + Investor

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

Hi Jillian, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’ve never been afraid to bet on myself. Whether it’s in real estate, business, or life in general. Every big move I’ve made has involved some level of risk. But I’ve learned that staying comfortable doesn’t lead to growth. Taking risks has forced me to get creative, trust my gut, and figure things out along the way. It’s how I’ve built my career, expanded my opportunities, and honestly, found the most fulfilling parts of my life.

Even when I’m helping clients buy a home, I’m thinking strategically, sometimes the “safe” option isn’t the right one. I’m not afraid to advocate for bold offers, explore off-market deals, or think outside the box to help them win. I don’t chase risk, but I don’t run from it either, I move when it makes sense.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Simply put: I help people buy and sell homes, but what I really do is guide, educate, and make the entire process less overwhelming, and maybe even a little fun. I love creating content that answers the questions buyers and sellers didn’t even know they had. Whether it’s a quick video about inspections or a checklist to keep you two steps ahead, I use social media as a tool to empower people, not just market to them.

But it’s not all contracts and closings. Through social media, I also love helping people see themselves living here in Georgia. I share local spots I take my kids, my favorite places for date nights, or even where I sneak off for a solo dinner. It’s about lifestyle too, because real estate isn’t just about the house. It’s about the life you’re building around it.

Behind the scenes, I’ve built systems that keep the whole process organized, efficient, and stress-free. From the first conversation to the closing table, I want my clients to feel supported, informed, and never left guessing what comes next.

What really sets me apart is that I’ve lived almost every version of this process myself. I’ve bought and sold homes as a single woman, as a wife, as a mom, and as someone starting over. I’ve rented, flipped, owned primary homes, managed tenants, and run the numbers on investment properties like it’s second nature. Whether someone is buying their forever home or their first rental, I can look at a property, brand new or 100 years old, and help them see if it’s the right move.

Getting to this point wasn’t easy. I started by wearing all the hats and figuring things out through trial and error. There were plenty of tough seasons and moments when I wasn’t sure I could keep going. But I did. Every challenge helped me build better systems, a better client experience, and a stronger version of myself.

I don’t treat clients like transactions. I treat them like people making one of the biggest decisions of their lives. I show up with strategy, heart, and a deep sense of responsibility. I truly care about getting it right for them.

I’m proud of how far I’ve come and even more excited about what’s ahead. My business reflects who I am: resourceful, real, and focused on service. And I hope that when people work with me, they feel that from the very start.

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.
Local Favorites: Atlanta + Beyond

Self‑Care & Treat Yourself

Chateau Elan Spa & Golf – Luxury spa day or a scenic round of golf
SpaLand Georgia – Korean spa experience with saunas and soaking tubs
Kskin Express Facial – Quick and effective skin refresh
Avalon – Shop, stroll, and grab dinner in this upscale outdoor district

Move Your Body

Doll Head Trail– Quirky art trail with urban nature vibes
Amicalola Falls State Park – Stair climb with a waterfall payoff
Oakland Cemetery – Surprisingly peaceful for a morning walk
Woodlands Garden in Decatur – Stroll through 8 magical acres
The Daily Pilates** – Boutique-style classes that strengthen and reset

Restaurants + Foodie Spots

The Little Tart Bakeshop – Pastries worth the hype
Estrellita – Filipino brunch with bold flavors (Grant Park)
Amore e Amore – Over-the-top Italian in a whimsical setting
Yeppa & Co – Chic Italian spot right off the BeltLine
Little Rey (Buckhead) – Casual tacos with a wood-fired twist
Bando – Wings that live up to the buzz
Moonlight Lounge – Stylish drinks and conversation
Del Bar – Mediterranean flavors in a modern setting
The Frosty Caboose – Train car ice cream shop with nostalgia vibes
Tyde Tate Kitchen – Thai comfort food at Chattahoochee Food Works
Hal’s Steakhouse – Old-school Atlanta favorite for a classic night out

Things To Do (That Aren’t Just Dinner)

Burle’s Bar – Live jazz upstairs at The Victorian (Tuesdays)
Decatur Farmers Market – Sundays with local vendors
Marietta Square Farmers Market – Saturdays on the square
Cumming City Center Concert Series – Free summer concerts + community events
Appalachian Trail Rides (Blue Ridge) – Guided horseback trail rides on 250 private acres
Decatur Glassblowing – Make your own glass art
MudFire Pottery Studio – Hands-on ceramics for all levels
Bellina Alimentari – Pasta-making and Italian cooking at Ponce City Market

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve had a lot of help getting to where I am, this definitely hasn’t been a solo journey. There were times I felt completely burnt out, wondering if I should just walk away, and it was the people around me who kept me grounded. Close friends and family who reminded me what I’m capable of and pushed me to keep going, even when I doubted myself.

My kids have been a big part of that, too. They’re the reason I push through on the hardest days and the reminder of what really matters when everything feels overwhelming. Watching them grow while building something meaningful for our future keeps me grounded and driven in a way nothing else can.

There’s also a special kind of shoutout that goes to the people who unknowingly pushed me forward, clients who trusted me, mentors who didn’t sugarcoat things, and even a few tough situations that taught me to level up and keep going. Every bit of encouragement, honesty, and accountability has shaped the way I show up today.

Instagram: @msjilliansmith

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-s-smith/