As a fourth generation Atlantan, Leslie Trammell Michael knows Atlanta. After a turn of unexpected events Leslie entered this industry by chance, but it’s been a perfect match. In only her second year of selling real estate she clenched the #9 individual producer spot at Beacham.
Leslie was a classically trained ballet dancer growing up and attended both Christ the King School and St. Pius X before heading to The University of Alabama on a dance scholarship. After graduating U of A, Leslie moved to Fort Lauderdale and taught dance at a prestigious private school. Several years later, Leslie decided to return home to Atlanta. With no comparable dance instructor positions available at the time, and a serial open house goer, one weekend during an open house spree it hit her: real estate might be perfect for her. Leslie’s knowledge and love for Atlanta’s neighborhoods made the decision easy.
Professionalism is of the utmost importance when it comes to Leslie’s clients. Her extroverted personality combined with her love of people turned her real estate career into a new passion. She currently resides in Chastain Park with her husband, one year old son Jack, and their dog Bear. Leslie loves living in Chastain Park—everything from the park, concert venue, sports leagues and amenities all just a short walk away makes it unbeatable!
Can you discuss the career path that lead you to real estate?
“I taught dance at a private school in Fort Lauderdale, FL for several years before coming home to Atlanta. My husband John was actually the one who suggested I look into a career in real estate. He recognized how much I loved open houses and my knowledge of the different neighborhoods. After thinking about it for almost a year, I finally decided to go for it and have never looked back!”
What is your favorite thing about real estate?
“I love helping people and getting to assist my clients on making what is usually one of the largest investments they will ever make is incredibly rewarding. I am a problem solver, so I enjoy working through any challenge that a transaction presents.”
Was there anything about real estate that surprised you when you first started?
“I think what surprised me most was how every transaction is so different. It’s one of the reasons I love this job – every day presents new and different challenges.”
Why do you Broker with Beacham?
“When I was researching real estate companies in Atlanta, Beacham and Company really stood out to me. I was most impressed with the professionalism and high end nature of their marketing and photography. The agents I met on my very first day have since become family, and I’m so grateful Glennis took a chance on me as a brand new agent. While this is a competitive industry, Beacham agents are very supportive of each other and celebrate each other’s successes.”
What traits have contributed to your success in this business?
“I’m an extrovert at heart and I really enjoy working with all different types of clients; a first time homebuyer or a seasoned property investor. Buying your first home or selling a family home is deeply enriched with memories, and I love it all! Having always prided myself on being very detail oriented, honest, and trustworthy, has allowed for mutual respect between myself and my clients. I always make sure my clients know how important they are to me, and I want them to love where they end up living, yet still be able to enjoy the buying and selling process. With all of the emotions involved in real estate, making sure it is an enjoyable process is one of my top priorities!”
How has becoming a mom changed or shifted your business strategies?
“Yes, it has definitely changed how I handle my business. I love being a mom, and I love my job, so finding the right balance has been key. I was a game changer when I realized I couldn’t do it all and asked for help. I’ll be forever grateful to the Beacham agents who help me when I can’t be in two places at once! Being a mom has motivated me more than ever to grow my business and make sure my children understand how important it is to do something you love. Real estate doesn’t feel like work to me since I genuinely love what I do.”
What is something you wish you had been told when you first started out as an agent?
“When I first started, someone wise advised me to take every opportunity that came my way, and I took that to heart. That alone helped me learn the business, opened up doors and has paid off in so many ways. Also, building relationships with established agents is a beneficial and unmatched way to successfully navigate this industry.”
Why did you choose to live in Chastain Park over other Atlanta neighborhoods?
“My husband and I have always loved Chastain Park. We previously lived in a high rise condominium in Buckhead, and while that was fun, we missed having easy access to the outdoors and having a yard of our own. We absolutely love that Chastain is convenient to everything we love to do and it has a great neighborhood community.”
Favorite go-to Atlanta dinner spot?
“I can’t choose just one because I am a total foodie…but would have to say Chops and Aria are my top two. The atmosphere, food, and service are top notch and cannot be beat.”
If you could have a home anywhere else other than Atlanta, where would it be and why?
“Since my husband and I love the beach and met in South Florida, I would have to say Palm Beach. I also have my real estate license in Florida, so we frequently travel there. I love the gorgeous coastal views, the laid back vibe, incredible beachfront properties, the list could go on…”
Are there any local favorite Atlanta shops you’ve made it a point to support during covid?
“My heart really goes out to all local businesses, especially the ones I’ve grown to love. I’m trying to shop locally for anything and everything, whether farmer’s market or restaurants that are offering takeout. A few other local businesses that I absolutely adore and support are Poppy’s—my go to clothing boutique off East Andrews, Baby Braithwaite—baby wonderland and my favorite place for all things children related, and T. Marie Designs–a local jewelry designer, who creates the most gorgeous pieces all by hand.”
If you’re interested in working with Leslie, click here!
