We were lucky to catch up with Keesha Dabney recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Keesha thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.
My motto is “Turning Possibilities into Opportunities.” I tend to help individuals who normally wouldn’t purchase a home due to their preconceived notion of not being able to become a homeowner. With the proper education and willingness, I have been able to get all of my clients into a home. Before I purchased my home, I didn’t think it was possible. I was a single mother, not a lot of savings, and low income. At the same time rent was becoming unaffordable. After connecting to someone in my church she opened my eyes to the possibility. Since being a homeowner, I have learned the value in it. Some valuable traits include stability, control over my finances, and the ability to build wealth. I have also helped 1st time investors.
Keesha, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
The problem I solve is stability. I became a Realtor after working for Georgia’s Depart of Family and Children Services. It really bothered me to see some families who was trying to achieve better but couldn’t because they were so dependent of government assistance. Most services don’t allow the person to seek better education or employment before getting cut from services. Before I left I began speaking to some of my clients about steps to take to change the trajectory of their path, I called it getting unstuck. Utilizing my skills from my MBA I am able to think creatively to help individuals and families to become unstuck when it comes to housing. It is not easy, however if they want it they can achieve homeownership. What I would like people to know about me is if you want it and willing to go after homeownership, I am willing to stick it out with you. They just have to trust me and be willing to sacrifice.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Changing your mindset and to learn it’s okay to be different in your family. Let’s just say I did everything different from some of the people in my family. For example, I was the first-generation college graduate and the 1st to obtain a Master’s Degree. Those were things my family wanted me to do. I wanted to help people and I really wanted to do it without punching a time clock. For me to become a Realtor with a child in high school getting ready for college was a different path because it was the path of uncertainty and less stable. By sticking to my goals, I was able to achieve and still support my child through college.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
My excellence customer service. For the past 2 years all of my business has come from past client referrals. Some agents have to buy leads and spend a lot on marketing. All I have been doing is providing exceptional customer service. My goal is to increase my marketing. I never want to be in a position where I have to purchase leads to make deals. 
Contact Info:
- Website: www.opportunityhwy.com
- Instagram: Homes with Keesha
- Facebook: Homes with Keesha/ Keesha Dabney
- Youtube: Homes with Keesha