Wednesday, May 12, 2004

Shell makes wheels turn

Kathy Shell of Metro Brokers/GMAC Real Estate doesn’t let anything stand in her way. Her motto is, “Just do it!”

Shell was in a car accident 34 years ago that left her paralyzed. She went on to college, had three children, and also worked as a political campaign manager.

In addition, Shell worked with Gov. Jimmy Carter in the early ‘70s to create Wheelchair Day in Georgia. Government officials spent a day in wheelchairs to experience first hand the daily obstacles that people in wheelchairs face. Shortly afterwards, she helped get wheelchair access legislation passed in Georgia.

Adding to her accomplishments is the fact that Shell is one of only two successful real estate associates in the metro Atlanta area who uses a wheelchair. She received her real estate license less than two years ago and joined Metro Brokers/GMAC Real Estate.

In her first full year as an associate, she sold $1.7 million and was honored in the Century Club and Commercial Million Dollar Club at Metro Brokers/GMAC Real Estate’s awards gala. Shell’s focus is land and commercial and she also works as a listing agent on the residential side.

Shell said that everyone faces adversity throughout their lifetime, but you should always look for the positive in any situation. She believes the main thing that makes someone successful in real estate is their spirit. She develops a rapport with potential customers long before she even makes it to the listing appointment. “By the time I meet the client, they don’t really even notice the wheelchair because we’re focused on what it will take to sell the house.”

“Kathy is one of the most positive, inspiring people I’ve ever met,” said Associate Broker Carol Waldrop of Metro Brokers/GMAC Real Estate’s Stockbridge office. “She has faced many challenges in her lifetime and she is so humble. Plus, she’s such a hard worker. I sometimes remind myself, if Kathy can do it, so can I.”

Shell’s goal for next year: double her income. She said if you have a goal and set your mind to it, you can accomplish anything.