We had the good fortune of connecting with Mechelle Newell and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Mechelle, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
There were two reasons that made me start my own business. The first reason is that I have always loved looking at homes. When I first moved to Atlanta me, and my mom would always look at homes under new construction. I liked the architecture and interior design of the homes. The second reason is that I needed to work for myself. The jobs that I had would dictate how much I would make; my hours and I really didn’t have freedom. If I was laid off my life would be turned upside down. I told myself that I needed to take back control of my life, so I decided to get my real estate license and start my own business.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a realtor in the Atlanta metro area. My business is built on making dreams come true. I work with my clients to get them the best deal. I maintain honesty and integrity in the home buying or selling process, prioritizing clients’ interests above all else. I provide knowledge and expertise about the local market, paying attention to detail, demonstrating excellent communication, customer service and negotiation skills. Additionally, dedication, determination and compassion are part of my work ethics.
I really like working with first-time home buyers and renters, because I can educate them on the process of home buying and building generational wealth. This is the most important purchase you will ever make, so being educated on the process helps you to keep your home. What sets me apart from others is that I follow-up and keep in communication with my clients.
In the beginning I thought it was going to be easy building my business, but then I realized that there was a lot I didn’t know. I came to the realization that real estate is not about making money it’s about building and cultivating relationships. Any reputable real estate professional would focus on building lasting relationships and I have been successful by making that my focus. My network wasn’t that big, so I had to find a way for people to know I’m a realtor. I’m a very quiet person, so it wasn’t easy for me to approach people at first, so this was a challenge. The good thing is once I start talking, I don’t stop talking, so I was able to overcome it. Marketing is key for realtors. I had to mail post cards in my subdivision, then attend community events to network and let people know about me. This is something you must do on a consistent basis, because eventually when someone thinks about buying or selling a home you will be on their mind.
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.
Usually in the beginning of the week nothing is happening. I have work to do and my guests are recuperating from a long flight from the west coast. Our fun would start midweek. I would take them on a tour of Atlanta, usually Buckhead, Perimeter Mall for lunch, Downtown to see the Mercedes Benz Stadium, AU Center and shopping at Atlantic Station. For dinner we would go to STK Steakhouse, because the steaks cut like butter and the brussel sprouts are delicious. Then we will take a walk around Piedmont park and people watch. Saturday night we would go to the comedy club and get our laugh on. Finish it off with praise and worship on Sunday at Elizabeth Baptist Church.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would give credit to the previous companies I worked for. I always felt like I wasn’t taken seriously and given opportunities to grow within the company. Sometimes it seemed like certain people were there to hold me back, so they encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and become an entrepreneur. Like they say ,“let your haters be your motivators”.
Website: https://mechellenewell.kw.com
Instagram: realtor_mechelle
Facebook: RealtorMechellen