Anne Milner’s California cool aesthetic paired with her interior design background made for the perfect entrance into residential real estate. Anne has navigated several family moves herself and can easily relate to her clients’ needs, whether buying or selling. She has since completed her 7th major home renovation, just around the corner in Haynes Manor neighborhood of Buckhead. Anne’s creative eye enables her clients and buyers to imagine the limitless possibilities each home offers; even if at first they may not see it themselves.
Growing up bi-coastal, Anne spent summers in Maryland while attending grade school in Oregon, but may forever call California home. Her design career began to take root in Oregon when friends would ask for help picking out lighting and pillows, and soon she was working for a friend helping source items in the industry. When she moved to California, it was the same story; but this time she launched her own firm. With three kids in school, managing her own business allowed for a flexible schedule and a fun, creative outlet. All of her kids grew up in California, outside San Francisco, until her husband was offered a job in Atlanta’s broadcasting industry. Anne’s main focus has been on settling down in Atlanta and getting her youngest daughter through her last two years at Woodward Academy, who now attends NYU.
Anne is no stranger to Atlanta, in fact she probably knows more than most lifelong residents! Exploring different parts of Atlanta with a group called ‘Explore Georgia’, an organized trip is planned monthly, ranging from hiking treks and food excursions to historical tours. The most recent was a guided tour of The Candler Hotel, which boasts stunning architecture and craftsmanship. You’ll often find Anne food hopping and discovering the hidden gems of West Midtown, Decatur, Inman Park and Little Five. Once COVID passes she will continue to frequent the belt-line with her dog and enjoy as much yoga as possible.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
“Being from the West Coast, I bring a much more relaxed, casual feeling and vibe to my home and designs. I think you can have children and pets and still live in a beautiful, elegant interior and not be afraid to flop on the sofa and put your feet up. I am obsessed with art, and discovering local southeastern artists has been amazing. Every home should include art that speaks to the owner. Atlanta is filled with amazing emerging and established artists and galleries, so the exploration is always new.”
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Why do you Broker with Beacham?
Female owned and operated, high integrity, and the marketing outdoes every other firm!
What inspired your transition from interior design to real estate?
“I’ve had a passion for homes from the time we bought our first home in Michigan. We have bought or sold 8 homes in 4 states. The process can be incredibly over-whelming and stressful, but each time I have enjoyed it. I have moved young kids, middle school age, high school age and college aged kids and I think I can bring that experience to help a client doing the same. For me, my youngest leaving for college left me with time to do something for myself and when I spent time thinking about what I should do, Real Estate was a natural choice. I love homes, the process of buying and selling, I love working with people and I love learning.”
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How do you think real estate and interior design intertwine?
“Probably the biggest similarity of the two is listening. Listening to your client’s needs and wants to produce the best possible outcome while working within a budget and time constraint.”
What are the advantages of an agent having an interior design background?
“I am able to help clients see past interiors that are not their style or they don’t like, look beyond the wall-covering or lighting. I have lived in a lot of homes and remodeled several. I have the ability to look at the bones of a house, uncover quirky lay-outs, offer suggestions of how problems can be remedied. By giving clients ideas, maybe utilizing spaces more efficiently, they are able to envision themselves living in a home that represents them, their personalities and passions. Anything can be
altered, except location!”
When you’re re-designing a space, where do go you for inspiration?
“I would say I am constantly inspired. Travel is a big inspiration, even just visiting other cities breeds ideas. Sounds crazy but walking for me is when my head is clear and I’m able to really think about how a room is laid out or how I want the area to unfold or the aesthetic we want. There is also amazing inspiration on your coffee table; books and magazines. I still love to go through all my home and design magazines and take a look what designers in other parts of the country are doing. The amount of creativity out there is enviable.”
Do you see any similarities or differences between the real estate market in Atlanta and California?
“I’d say low inventory. California (northern) has continually had low inventory for years and years. I think the biggest difference in markets is home size. Most Californians looking in desirable areas do not expect large homes or property. The prices are high and you adapt to raising your families in small houses. Outdoor living becomes more important, and so many homes have pools as well as entertaining spaces or casitas.”
Is there something in particular that has surprised you working in real estate?
“I think the biggest surprise for me in real estate is the pace. Good agents work at a very fast pace, and they need to know so much information. Most people don’t realize the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes at all hours of the day and night. Agents need to be familiar with law, code, finance, and so much more – all while being available to clients 24/7. “
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Are there any trends you are hoping make a comeback?
“There are certain things that are not my style; red & gold or Tuscan anything. I love Tuscany, but California was especially over “Tuscaned” and I’m also over it. I love that wallpaper has soared recently; although I have to admit, every house I’ve owned I papered a powder bath or laundry because I’ve always loved it. One trend I’m worried is being overdone now is brass. I love it, but it is everywhere and there will be a point when everyone will want something new and different.”
How have you been adapting to the current Covid-19 pandemic? Started any new hobbies etc?
“Peloton. I never thought I would get on or want to get on a stationary bike, but I have loved it. I’m always looking for themed music rides- they are so fun and make the spin time fly by!”
Favorite place you’ve ever traveled to?
“Lisbon, Portugal. We loved it so much that we went back 6 months later. I loved the steep, cobble stone streets, the architecture, the river and the suspension bridge that resembles the Golden Gate. The city has so many similarities to San Francisco, and I just love it! I took my daughter on a biking trip through Croatia last year, and the country is stunning. I would love to go back and spend more time when we are able to travel again.”
What books have you been reading lately? Anything you would recommend?
I always have two books going, one I listen to and one I read. Right now I am listening to ‘Giver of Stars’ by Jojo Moyes and ‘White Fragility’ by Robin DiAngelo. I just finished ‘The Paper Wife’ by Laila Ibrahim.”
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If you’re interested in working with Anne, visit her agent page here!
