Meet Cindy Nguyen | Realtor/ AREAA Atlanta President

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

Hi Cindy, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
My understanding of work-life balance has evolved significantly over the years. Early in my career, I saw success as synonymous with hustle like long hours, late nights, saying yes to everything. But over time, I realized that sustainability matters just as much as ambition.

Now, I think of balance less of sacrificing your social life for work or the other way around but more like a rhythm that changes with the seasons of life and work. Some periods require intense focus and long hours, and that’s okay but I make sure those stretches are balanced with moments of rest, reflection, and time for what fuels me outside of work.

These days, I try to be intentional. I protect time for myself, for people I care about, and for activities that recharge me. Ironically, I’ve found that when I do that, I’m more creative, productive, and resilient at work. Balance, to me, isn’t about doing less, it’s about doing what matters, with presence and purpose. I’ve always value my relationships whether its friends, family or co-workers, It is very important I prioritize those relationships in my life. The balance is that I have to remember to take care of myself so that I can be the best version for all the people I love.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m currently a real estate professional/Realtor at Real Brokerage and the President of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) in Atlanta. Real estate isn’t just my business — it’s my passion and my platform for helping people build generational wealth, find community, and feel at home, in every sense of the word.

What sets me apart is my commitment to relationship-building. For me, it’s not about the transaction, it’s about the people. I take pride in educating and empowering my clients, especially those in the AAPI community, who may face unique challenges or cultural barriers in the home-buying process. I bring empathy, cultural awareness, and a deep local market knowledge to the table, and I believe that combination makes a real difference.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy and honestly, I’m still learning and growing. When I started, I had to build everything from the ground up, my client base, my confidence, my systems. I faced rejections, market fluctuations like he pandemic a few months right after I was licensed , and moments of doubt. What got me through was perseverance, staying connected to mentors, and continuously investing in myself through training, networking, and personal development. For example, during the pandemic as a new agent I chose to open doors for other agent’s clients so I can practice. I was given the opportunity to visit all different types of homes that I would not have been able to when first obtaining my license. I practiced on my craft and communication because I did not want to be stagnant and strive my best to keeping myself knowledgeable.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned are: stay consistent, value people over profits, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Surrounding myself with the right people, like my AREAA family has been a game changer. They’ve pushed me, supported me, and reminded me that leadership is about lifting others as you rise.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is this: I’m here for the long haul. I’m building a legacy rooted in service, community, and authenticity. Whether it’s guiding someone through their first home purchase or advocating for greater equity in real estate, I approach it with all my heart. This isn’t just a job to me, it’s my passion.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my bestie was visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d make sure she had the absolute best time soaking in everything I love about this city, great food, outdoor fun, and all the little local spots that make Atlanta so special.

We’d kick things off at Real Tacos in Chamblee, GA, it’s the perfect place to sit outside, catch up over their amazing margaritas and tacos, and map out our week ahead. It’s chill, flavorful, and such a vibe, exactly how every trip should start!

Next, we’d rent bikes and cruise the Atlanta BeltLine, stopping at Piedmont Park, Krog Street, Inman Park, and Ponce City Market. We’d play some volleyball by the skate park, soak up the sun, people-watch, and just enjoy the energy of the city. At night, it’s all about unwinding with guac, margaritas, and good conversation, low-key but perfect.

Of course, I’d have to introduce her to pickleball, because I’m a little obsessed! Whether it’s at Hammond Park, Arrow Creek Park, or indoors at the Lifetime Gyms, it’s such a fun way to get active and competitive (in the friendliest way).

For a girls’ night out, Wagyu House is the move, delicious food, great cocktails, and a rooftop that makes you feel like you’re celebrating something even if you’re not. It’s the perfect Friday night vibe.

On Saturday mornings, we’d explore the city’s farmers markets like Grant Park, Freedom Parkway, or Brookhaven Farmers Market and grab some fresh finds, coffee, and pastries. Then we’d head up to Gwinnett County for the ultimate food adventure, incredible Asian restaurants, local spots you can’t find anywhere else, and of course, boba tea to wrap it all up.

Atlanta is so full of life, culture, and community, and I’d want my bestie to experience it the way locals do with a balance of great food, outdoor fun, hidden gems, and time to just breathe and be present.

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?
Absolutely, I’m a firm believer that no one gets to where they are alone, and I’m incredibly proud to dedicate my shoutout to the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) here in Atlanta. I currently have the honor of serving as President of our local chapter, and it’s one of the roles I’m most proud of. To be able to represent such a powerful and supportive organization that uplifts the AAPI community through real estate and advocacy means a great deal to me.

The people I’ve met through AREAA have become more than colleagues — they’ve become lifelong friends and mentors. Some of them I’ve known since the very beginning of my career, and their encouragement and guidance have played a huge part in my journey.

I’m especially thankful for past presidents Andrew Peters, Helen Nguyen, Tim Hur, Dan Park, and Jimmy Chang — each of them has been generous with their wisdom and support. They’re not only incredible leaders, but also highly respected and successful realtors here in the Atlanta area. Their examples continue to inspire me every day.

AREAA has been a community, a network, and a family — and I’m grateful to be a part of it.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlrealtor.cindy/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/?trk=guest_homepage-basic_nav-header-signin

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cindy.nguyen.942145/

Other: https://areaa.org/atlantametro – AREAA ATLANTA WEBSITE

https://www.instagram.com/cindy.realtor_/ My Personal IG Account

Image Credits
Anna Le Photography