Susan Cross never imagined she would end up in real estate until she started a successful catering business in Buckhead; this launched her into real estate in 2002. In the years since, she has maintained a successful career and stayed among Atlanta’s top agents.
Let’s start from the beginning; Susan grew up in Columbus, Georgia as the youngest of three, with two older brothers whom she adores. She went off to Spartanburg, SC to attend Converse College and transferred after two years to the University of Georgia. Her father owned a local insurance firm in Columbus which inspired her first job as an underwriter at a major insurance company and then marketing for another insurance firm for an additional 10 years. Here she traveled extensively and saw the world firsthand.
Susan has three sons, Mitchell 25, Gus 22, Preston 20. After her first child she began working at home and got the taste of being out of corporate America. She started a catering business making casseroles for friends which spiraled into catering real estate caravan lunches. Linda Stone, Susan’s pretend big sister, was a lifelong realtor who really pushed and supported her transition into real estate. Susan has lived in Sandy Springs, Chastain Park, Wildwood, Argonne Forrest and now resides in Peachtree Hills.
Cross discusses her goals this year, what sets her apart and why she brokers with Beacham.
What are your goals this year?
“I think it varies from year to year. This year, my goal was to branch outside of my comfort zone and sell more homes. In 2019, I’ve sold houses in Acworth, Canton and Powder Springs. All of these were in areas that were new to me, and I really enjoyed learning more about what they had to offer. Metro Atlanta has so many great areas and neighborhoods, and I really look forward to becoming more familiar with each of them. So far, my transactions are up this year!”
What sets you apart?
“Being an individual agent and not part of a team gives me the flexibility and time to spend with my clients and help them figure out exactly what they want and need. In addition, I feel strongly about showing my own listings no matter the price point. This helps insure that the showing agent and clients get a good synopsis of the home and neighborhood. The seller gets feedback on the showing from me immediately and that relieves common concerns.”
Why Broker with Beacham?
“I previously worked for another firm and left just before it was purchased. Glennis herself is a unique top producer and someone I’ve always admired professionally; she stays calm and pays attention to the details of every transaction. From the beginning, Beacham & Company has been the model of luxury real estate that other Atlanta agencies now try to emulate. Because Beacham has the smartest and most self-motivated agents who are totally entrenched in the community, it has always felt like home.”
What advice would you give a new agent?
“Lots of books! But in addition to all of the training, follow the strategies that have been proven successful; make phone calls, write notes and find someone who you look up to and can mentor you.”
What is the craziest real estate story you can share?
“I was helping a couple who were relocating to the area, who said they both worked as grief counselors. Later in the day they inform me that they were actually psychic mediums! The husband ended up letting me know he knew I was adopted! Which is actually correct! It was a very creepy experience.”
If you could live in any place other than Atlanta, where would it be?
“Cashiers, NC! I grew up going to summer camp there at Camp Merrie-Wood. It’s a place of unique beauty with an abundance of waterfalls and hiking trails; truly a special place for me. I get off the exit and all my stress washes away. I have my real estate license in NC and I’m actually the broker of our Beacham and Company REALTORS® office for North Carolina. I hope one day I can have a little place there!”
Of all the neighborhoods you’ve live in Atlanta, which has been your favorite?
“Argonne Forest. The location is just unbeatable with close proximity to Shops of Buckhead, West Paces Ferry Shopping and top public/private schools. All of the neighborhood kids play outside because it’s not a cut through. The community itself is also very diverse with people of all ages.”
If someone is traveling to Columbus, GA, what would you say is the #1 thing to do?
“I’m fascinated that red brick and brown furniture are out of style. I love seeing all of the creative ways homeowners change it in their homes. I also love lacquered walls and the fact wall paper is coming back in!”
Currently, what is your favorite Atlanta restaurant?
“Right now I would say Le Colonial! When I’m there it feels like I’m in a Hemingway novel! Not to mention, there is an awesome bar and the food is fantastic!”
Where did you get your cutie lab from?
“Atlanta Lab Rescue! When my last lab passed away a year ago, I went back there and adopted Charlie! They are amazing! Rescuing a dog is always a good idea, especially from such a well managed non-profit.”
If you’re interested in working with Susan, visit her agent page here!
