We had the good fortune of connecting with Paige Hardy and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Paige, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
A cherished affirmation I’ve recited since childhood is: “Yes, I have a disability, but my disability doesn’t have me. Sickle Cell will never define who I am.” Sickle Cell is a genetic disease that results in “sickled” red blood cells, impeding proper blood flow and causing oxygen deficiency, leading to painful crises. Growing up, people often highlighted my limitations, unintentionally creating a perceived ceiling on my potential. Most sickle cell warriors I encountered were in hospitals or emergency rooms, fighting crises. It took me twenty-one years to meet someone who defied the odds with sickle cell. This affirmation emerged to remind me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. Despite having a disability, it doesn’t define me; I am a multifaceted individual deserving of a happy and fulfilling life. Despite the challenges, I vowed to succeed and be great, especially for the sake of children with sickle cell who deserve to see success and representation.
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.
My entrepreneurial journey, sparked by my father’s influence, is deeply intertwined with the fact that I was born with a rare genetic condition, Sickle Beta Thalassemia. This debilitating disease has not only shaped my life but also directed my career path. After obtaining a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration, I faced uncertainty about my future direction. Driven by a determination for success and a refusal to let my disability hinder me, I ventured into the corporate sector, hoping for success. However, that year brought continual hardships, as many companies failed to understand or accommodate my disability, leading to my unfortunate dismissal. Little did I know that this challenging situation would propel me towards my true passion. Concurrently, during this period, my father, venturing into investment, encouraged me to join him in building a real estate empire. Despite my initial lack of interest in real estate, he saw potential in me, investing in my real estate education. This decision led me to become a realtor, where I discovered that facilitating homeownership was my destined path.
Before becoming a Realtor, I found myself in a stagnant state, accustomed to my familiar surroundings. Seeking growth, I stepped out of my comfort zone, moving to Charlotte, where the unfamiliarity became the catalyst for my career’s advancement. Embracing the challenges of relocation without familiar support, I relied on faith, determination, and goals, thriving in the process. I am a dually licensed Realtor in North Carolina and Georgia
A significant challenge in my career was achieving a balanced lifestyle. Initially, I grappled with financial challenges in a new city, solely focused on establishing myself. Recognizing the toll on my well-being, I implemented a detailed daily schedule, set boundaries, and prioritized my personal life. Embracing the significance of vacations, I fully disconnected and invested in building a team for client satisfaction during my absence.
Lastly, my story is one of resilience, defying the odds to create the brand “Sold With Paige.” Driven by a deep care for homeownership and others’ legacies, I treat clients with the same consideration I’d want during my home-buying process. As a Realtor, I go above and beyond, ensuring an enjoyable experience and fighting tooth and nail for each client’s desired outcome. My brand is rooted in giving 100% to guide clients precisely where they want to be.
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?
Although I’ve only been in Atlanta for a year, I’ve discovered some favorite spots. If my best friend were visiting, I’d recommend Gocha’s Breakfast Bar or Toast on Lennox for breakfast. Lunch options would include Poor Calvins, Bulla Gastrobar, or Saints + Council. For dinner, The Sun Dial, Ray’s In the City, or Bastone would be fantastic choices.
When it comes to drinks, we enjoy wine and craft cocktails. Barcelona Wine Bar or Postino would be great for wine tasting all night. For creative cocktails, Rose and Rye, Drawbar, or El Mayo are my top picks.
For entertainment, we’re always up for new experiences. A massage at Woodhouse, retail therapy at Phipps, and exploring the nightlife are on the agenda. Since I love karaoke, MICS is a must, followed by a visit to the Interlock, and ending the night at a lounge like Tulum or The James Room.
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?
I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge key figures in my career success. Firstly, immense gratitude to my parents – the driving force behind my journey in real estate. My dad’s belief in me, even before I believed in myself, set the foundation. My mom, my superwoman, played a pivotal role in shaping my story, teaching me tenacity from her own hustle.
Secondly, a heartfelt tribute to my mentor, Kimberly Williams, a respected leader in the real estate industry. As a black woman in a predominantly white field, choosing Kim as my mentor was crucial. Her unwavering support and vast knowledge have propelled me to surpass my wildest dreams.
Lastly, I appreciate my friends for their constant support and positivity in my life. Special recognition to my branding consultant for urging me to stay true to myself. In the inherently personal field of real estate, a chance encounter prompted a mindset shift. My consultant’s question, “Why hide your personality?” resonated, leading me to embrace authenticity. Clients choose me not just for my professional skills but because they genuinely like me. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to establishing a relatable brand as Paige the realtor.
Website: soldwithpaige.com
Instagram: @soldwithpaige
Twitter: @soldwithpaige
Facebook: Paige Simone’ Hardy
Other: Personal IG Page: @iammspai
Image Credits
Camille Hughes