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

Hi Deborah, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk-taking is scary, but it has been the key to growth in every industry I have worked in. The entrepreneur’s journey requires risk. At the early stages of my career, I couldn’t tolerate much … As I grew my business skills and confidence, I took more risks and had bigger rewards. and that cycle continues today. Mistakes along the way taught me so many things that helped me grow. Big mistakes equal big leaps in growth.

I don’t shy away from risk- but I would clarify that I have become better at calculating risks. None of us have a crystal ball and cannot predict the future or variable and unknown risks. I have improved my ability to assess the potential opportunities versus the costs of Time and Money, and any other possible pitfalls. The mistakes I made in the past taught me how to calculate potential risks and improved my vision. As a result, I have more confidence in myself and my ability to make sound decisions.

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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?
Like most successful Realtors and Brokerage owners, my background did not begin in Real estate. My story is about failing forward and, fortunately, always landing on my feet. The secret to feeling successful is using everything in life for good.

My personal story is peppered with both losses and wins. Overcoming challenges is what makes entrepreneurs successful. I am most excited to share that part of my story – because that is what makes me excellent at my work. The lessons I learned through running a myriad of small and mid-sized businesses taught me priceless skills.
As a Real estate consultant and Brokerage owner, I solve problems and find solutions. Everyone has different goals and needs. I create customized strategies and plans for people who are selling, buying, or investing in real estate.
Our mission is to “Create a clear path to Success in Real estate. We do that for our clients AND our agents who are building careers.
My vision for the company is to Shine a light in our communities. Clareo means “shining light – or Bright light.
My previous experience taught me that high-level service coupled with high-level and precise skills brings results that make a difference.
My goal is to serve at the highest level, with the most skill, to bring the best results.
I use Real Estate to improve people’s lives and shine brightly in an industry that can be a bit dark. I learned that running a business with purpose makes the work joyful.

Entrepreneurship, and Real Estate in particular, is not for the faint of heart or the weak. A diverse background makes for a confusing resume…. my diverse background makes me uniquely perfect for the diverse challenges in real estate.
I attended Art School, moved into the Hospitality industry, then to Marina and Resort management, opened, operated, and sold a successful barber shop, started a manufacturing company, and then into a successful Real estate business.
Every lesson I learned in every industry brought me to where I am today. Nothing is ever wasted—the gold is in the lessons we learn and how we apply them!
I feel fortunate to be able to help people with some of the most impactful transactions and moments in their lives. When we treat our work as our mission, we shine.
Our clients see the difference, and our agents reflect the same light – we build better communities when we live with a purpose and a mission.

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If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
OOH- there is SO much to do in Metro Atlanta! I would take my friends to see the sights that Atlanta is known for and also hit some interesting outside-the-city fun spots!
Our day in the city would include visiting the famous Fox Theater and High Museum of Art, walking through beautiful Piedmont Park, and eating an excellent meal at Rumi’s Kitchen or South City Kitchen.
If it were the 4th of July, we would not miss the Peachtree Road race—an annual must-do in Atlanta.
Visiting Ponce City Market is a must-do for shopping and enjoying some time on our famous Beltline, with time at Krog Street Market – and a visit to Two Urban Licks is a must.
Since I am a car and motorcycle enthusiast, I wouldn’t miss the Porsche Driving experience for a unique experience – or head north to Atlanta Motorsports park for a GoKarting racing experience.
Renting a boat for a day at Lake Lanier would be the perfect way to see the beautiful lake, visit the Lake Lanier Islands, and have lunch and drinks waterside.
If we had time for some suburban shopping and dining, I would certainly hit Roswell—and explore the famous Canton Street. Then, I would go to Marietta Square and finish the day at Mac’s Chophouse with a perfect steak and smoked old-fashioned. Speaking of perfect old-fashioned, worth the trip is a visit to The Cigar Cellar in Kennesaw to top off the visit with high-end libations and cigars.
OR – the Marietta Diner: the BEST Dessert counter, cakes, pies, and classic 24-hour service and full menu day or night!
TOO MANY TO CHOOSE!!!

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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?
Shoutout to my Mom and Dad for teaching me the value of service above self, hard work, and integrity. Special shout-out to the North Cobb Rotary Club and Riverstone Church for allowing me to be mentored by others who model the qualities I admire.

Website: https://www.clareorealestate.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/clareorealestate

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/company/deborah-morton-real-estate

Twitter: @clareorealestate

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClareoGroup

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@clareorealestate

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