Whether representing the more metropolitan areas or the charming smaller towns, Alabama REALTORS® are known for their willingness to help clients without reservation. We had the opportunity to get to know 5 of Alabama’s most respected REALTORS® from all across the state. We asked each of them a few questions to get to know them, their passion, and their market.
Mechelle Sippial Wilder
Partner | Associate Broker, ARC Realty
Birmingham, Alabama
What’s your favorite thing about being a real estate agent?
My favorite thing about being a real estate agent is the fact that I can help people start the journey of generational wealth for themselves and their families. In my communities, especially the African American community, statistics show that owning a home has built up equity over time. This can be the difference between poverty or living the American dream.
What makes a listing ideal in your eyes?
To me a listing is ideal in my eyes when the sellers listen to my professional suggestions and do what I have asked to prepare the house to sell. Location and pricing top the list, but included are also decluttering and cleaning (inside and out), making repairs, painting, and staging. I love it when my sellers view their home from the perspective of the buyer, and work to create the “WOW!” effect for future showings.
What do you love most about living in Alabama?
There are many things I love about living in Alabama. It has been a wonderful state to attend college (Samford University), marry (for 40 years and counting!), work (IBM, RealtySouth and Arc Realty), raise four children, and serve local and state organizations that make me proud! Although Alabama has some negative history as it pertains to civil rights and economic freedom, I see some of those wrongs being addressed through legislation and social change by the residents of our state.
What’s your favorite local business in your area?
I have many favorite local sole proprietors, independent contractors, and “Mom and Pop” businesses in my area. My company helps me to support several of those local businesses with a “Lolo gift” each month. This gift is offered to clients from a local business that ARC spotlights each month. I pay a portion of the cost, and the businesses help pay for the rest. This is a great opportunity to market local businesses and deepen the relationship between me and my clients.
What would be your pump up music when heading to the closing table?
My pump-up music when headed to the closing table is “All I Do Is Win” DJ Khaled.
Justin Rivers
Realtor, Prime Real Estate Group
Auburn, Alabama
What’s your favorite thing about being a real estate agent?
What I love most about being a real estate agent is the chance to play a pivotal role in my client’s journey toward homeownership or achieving their real estate goals. It’s a profession that combines business acumen, interpersonal skills, and a genuine passion for helping people achieve their dreams.
What makes a listing ideal in your eyes?
An ideal listing combines attractive location, condition, pricing, and marketing strategy. That makes it a highly sought-after property in the real estate market.
What do you love most about living in Alabama?
Living in Alabama is about embracing the beauty of the South- its rich history and the genuine warmth of the people who call it home. It’s a place where you can experience the best of Southern culture while enjoying the great outdoors and a strong sense of community.
What’s your favorite local business in your area?
I love food! Therefore, my favorite local business is Big Blue Crawfish.
What would be your pump-up music when heading to the closing table?
“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
Andrea Kaiser Shilston
Owner | Broker, Kaiser Sotheby’s International Realty
Fairhope, Alabama
What’s your favorite thing about being a real estate agent?
No client nor property is identical so I am faced with many opportunities to grow as a professional and learn something new every day.
What makes a listing ideal in your eyes?
Because every listing is different, the one common attribute to a listing no matter the price, location, or type that makes it ideal would be cleanliness. It does not matter if it’s a multimillion-dollar estate, single-family starter home, condo, or even a land listing, the condition and cleanliness of the property are key to a timely sale at top dollar.
What do you love most about living in Alabama?
I love being on the water! Growing up in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach I spent many many hours swimming and playing in the waters of coastal Alabama. Later I was introduced to rivers and lakes around Alabama. No matter where you go throughout our state there is some sort of body of water for you to fish, swim, boat or relax in.
What’s your favorite local business in your area?
Oh, there are so many locally owned businesses in Baldwin County that I patronize on a regular basis. We are blessed with an abundance of entrepreneurs who take pride in their businesses and understand the importance of attracting not only tourists but also local support through their doors. I would have to say for me personally, if I have some extra time on my hands, I like to go to one of our local flower shops or nurseries. In Fairhope we have The Plant Shoppe, Wildflowers, Old Time Feed & Seed and Corner Copia Gardens just to name a few. All are so unique, have a variety of products, and friendly staff and owners.
What would be your pump up music when heading to the closing table?
I love live music! My go to closing music most definitely is a live recording. Two of my favorites are “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac and “Bound for Glory” by Tedeschi Trucks Band.
Lee Harris
Broker/Owner, Coldwell Banker Alliance
Auburn, Alabama
What’s your favorite thing about being a real estate agent?
For me, it’s all about the journey. Real Estate has always put such wonderful people in my life and allowed me to develop relationships I would never have otherwise. Meeting new people and being able to provide them with a sense of confidence when making a big decision has been quite rewarding. Continuing those relationships throughout my life and career has been humbling and fulfilling.
What makes a listing ideal in your eyes?
It’s all about location! While curb appeal, floor plan, kitchens, and bathrooms will WOW prospective purchasers, a premium will always be placed on location. A person can do just about anything to a house to satisfy their needs…. except pick it up and move it across town!
What do you love most about living in Alabama?
I have always been a pretty laid-back individual. I think the pace of play in this state suits me well. Plenty of time to think, make a decision, and let the chips fall where they may. No need to rush, just enjoy the ride.
What’s your favorite local business in your area?
The Food Bank of East Alabama is just an extraordinary place with wonderful people. They make a difference every day and give the public an opportunity to volunteer. In that sense, they are not just feeding people in need, but teaching a generation of people how to love and be kind.
What would be your pump up music when heading to the closing table?
My pump-up music would easily be Taylor Swift, anything from the “1989″ album. What’s not to love? I would also give a shoutout to Lady Gaga and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Regina Mitchell
Broker/Owner, Regina Mitchell Real Estate
Madison, Alabama
What’s your favorite thing about being a real estate agent?
My favorite aspect of being a real estate agent is the profound satisfaction and unspeakable joy I experience while advocating for home buyers and sellers. The process of helping someone sell their cherished home or assisting others in finding their dream residence is immensely fulfilling. Each transaction is a unique journey, and being a guiding force in these significant life decisions brings me a sense of accomplishment and happiness. The trust placed in me by clients to navigate the complexities of real estate transactions is both an honor and a responsibility that I cherish deeply.
What makes a listing ideal in your eyes?
An ideal listing, in my eyes, possesses a prime location offering both convenience and desirability. It features a well-maintained property with modern amenities and a layout that appeals to a broad range of buyers. Lastly, it is priced competitively, striking the perfect balance between market value and attractiveness to potential buyers.
What do you love most about living in Alabama?
Living in Alabama is a constant reminder of the charm of southern hospitality, where warm smiles and friendly greetings are a daily norm. The sense of community is palpable, making it feel like a large, extended family. Its family-oriented atmosphere makes it an inviting place for people of all ages. The genuine warmth of its people and the inclusive community spirit make Alabama a place I truly love calling home. Not to mention, ALABAMA FOOTBALL… ROLL TIDE!
What’s your favorite local business in your area?
Publix stands out as my favorite local business due to its consistently helpful and polite staff, who create a friendly shopping atmosphere. The store’s neat and clean environment makes every visit a pleasant experience. Additionally, its convenient location and well-organized layout simplify my shopping routine, making it an easy choice for my regular needs.
What would be your pump up music when heading to the closing table?
When I’m headed to a real estate closing, my go-to pump up music is “Won’t He Do It” by Koryn Hawthorne. This song’s uplifting beat and empowering lyrics instantly boost my confidence and energy. Its message of faith and perseverance resonates with me, reminding me of the hard work and dedication that brought me to this point. The rhythm and positivity of the song set the perfect tone, filling me with optimism and readiness to successfully finalize the deal. It’s more than just music; it’s a motivational anthem that aligns perfectly with the triumph and satisfaction of my life and real estate career.
