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

Hi Emily, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
When I think about risk, I think about getting out of your comfort zone. At some point we all want to do something in our lives that have never done before and you don’t know how it will pane out. We say its risky and that’s why we hold back from doing it but truly we are just too scared to step out of the place where we are comfortable. I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t decide to take the risk of buying my first home and the risk of changing my career path.

What should our readers know about your business?
Throughout my high school years, I was uncertain about what career path I wanted to pursue. However, one day my mom suggested that I consider becoming a radiology technician. Intrigued, I began researching the job and realized that it could be a good fit for me. I even graduated from high school six months early and worked diligently during that time. During the summer before college, I worked as a server in a bar, dedicating five to six days a week to my job. Even when I started college, I continued working full-time while attending classes. This routine persisted for the next four years, as I remained committed to my chosen career path. Throughout this period, I saved my hard-earned money and only spent it on necessities. Eventually, I felt ready to move out again, but this time I didn’t want to waste my money on renting. In 2023, at the age of 20, I took the leap and bought my own house, which completely changed my perspective on life. Gradually, my interest in college waned, and I became more captivated by home renovations. I started appreciating the beauty of houses and the intricate details within them. Although I realized that healthcare was no longer my passion, I was hesitant to switch career paths due to fear and comfort. Despite feeling miserable, I mustered the courage to take a risk and become a realtor after seeking advice from friends and family. I quit my job and left school, relying solely on my savings to pay my bills. Everyone, including myself, was uncertain about the outcome, but as soon as I obtained my license, I dove headfirst into my new career. And now, here I am, not even three months in, with one deal closed, another one closing this week, and one in July. Taking risks is essential, as God always has a plan for you!

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?
For breakfast I would take her to a cute brunch spot located in Chapin SC called Bacon. They have great, affordable food, and a free refill coffee bar. If we still needed something to wake us up I would swing us through Loveland Coffee which is located in Irmo SC. Its a beautiful 2 story coffee shop that never disappoints. I have been really into Mediterranean food lately, so I think for lunch we would have to swing by Kairos, located in Irmo. If it was a nice sunny day I would also take them on the beautiful lake Murray and end the day with dinner at Nacho Margaritas located in Prosperity!

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 would not be where I am right now in real estate without the support of my friends and family. I thank all the friends that believed in me and helped me get my name out there. I thank the family who encouraged me and was willing to help in areas where needed. I also want to thank those select friends and family members who are doing business along side me. Business runs smooth when working with people you trust.

Website: https://emilygardner.myrealtyonegroup.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egsellssc?igsh=dHZuazhnMTc1aGxi&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/egsellssc?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
rileigh hobgood

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