With an impressive $10.7 million in sales volume and 54 transactions in 2022, Stacy Cole is RISMedia’s 2023 Real Estate Rookie of the Year national winner. Attributing her success to rolling up her sleeves and going all-in on her career, Cole’s focus on marketing and her dedication to the community helped spark her success. But most of all, she says, it’s about commitment. “Real estate is hard work,” says Cole. “Early mornings, late nights and working on the weekends. The hard work is paying off.”

Cole attributes her early success in real estate to consistent follow up. “Keep yourself in front of your customers and clients, and follow up, follow up, follow up,” she says. “Also, developing a relationship with my clients is important, as my business has grown with word-of-mouth referrals. I strive to work hard and make a lasting impression.”

The people-focused nature of real estate is what Cole cherishes most about the real estate business. “I love meeting new people,” she says. “It’s not just about a paycheck for me—it’s about developing long-lasting relationships with each transaction.”